True resistivity determination
The true resistivity (Rt) of a formation is its resistivity when not contaminated by drilling fluids. It may contain formation water only (water saturation [Sw] = 100%) or formation water and hydrocarbons (Sw < 100%). Using a valid Rt is fundamental when analyzing well logs for the presence of hydrocarbons. For a discussion of resistivity concepts see Asquith, 1982.
How invasion affects rt measurement
During the drilling process, filtrate water from the drilling fluid invades the formation. Its resistivity (Rmf) is either greater than, less than, or equal to Rt and can distort deep resistivities. Distortions to resistivities due to invasion must be corrected to get a valid Rt value. The diagram in Figure 1 shows resistivity profiles of formations with fresh and saltwater mud filtrate invasion.
Obtaining a valid rt value
To obtain an uninvaded zone resistivity (Rt)
- Read the resistivity of the log with deepest investigation (deep induction log [ILD], deep laterolog [LLD], etc.).
- Use the table below to determine how to make corrections.
If… | Then… |
---|---|
Bed is < 20 ft thick for an induction log or < 4 ft thick for a laterolog | Correct for this bed using appropriate service company chart |
Shallow, medium, and deep investigating tools measure different resistivities (i.e., log has step profile) | Correct for invasion using appropriate service company tornado chart |