In this section
@article{Harris:2026:10.1029/2025GL119816,
author = {Harris, C and Krevor, S and Muggeridge, AH and Camilleri, M and Jackson, SJ},
doi = {10.1029/2025GL119816},
journal = {Geophysical Research Letters},
title = {Unstable Drainage Dynamics During Multiphase Flow Across Capillary Heterogeneities},
url = {http://dx.doi.org/10.1029/2025GL119816},
volume = {53},
year = {2026}
}
TY - JOUR
AB - We use novel, fast 4D Synchrotron X-ray imaging with large field-of-view to reveal pore- and macro-scale drainage dynamics during gas–brine flow through a layered sandstone rock sample. We show that a single centimeter-scale layer, similar in pore size distribution to the surrounding rock but with reduced connectivity, temporarily inhibits, and redirects gas flow, acting as a capillary barrier. Subtle variations in gas invasion upstream of the barrier lead to different downstream migration pathways over repeated experiments, resulting in unstable and unpredictable drainage behavior, with breakthrough times varying by up to a factor of four. The results show that heterogeneity in pore-scale connectivity can amplify variability in macroscopic flow, challenging deterministic assumptions in existing continuum models. By linking structural heterogeneity to flow instability, this work underscores the need for probabilistic modeling approaches in multiphase flow and highlights broader implications for managing fluid transport in natural and engineered porous systems.
AU - Harris,C
AU - Krevor,S
AU - Muggeridge,AH
AU - Camilleri,M
AU - Jackson,SJ
DO - 10.1029/2025GL119816
PY - 2026///
SN - 0094-8276
TI - Unstable Drainage Dynamics During Multiphase Flow Across Capillary Heterogeneities
T2 - Geophysical Research Letters
UR - http://dx.doi.org/10.1029/2025GL119816
VL - 53
ER -