Characteristics and Size Effects of 3-D Micro-fracture Structures of Tectonically Deformed Shale Based on X-ray Tomography and Digital Image Processing Technology: Implications for Estimating Permeability REV Size of Intensely Fractured Shale

Key Points

• Micro-fracture structures significantly impact the permeability of tectonically deformed shale, altering fluid movement.
• Key evidence shows increased permeability due to 3-D micro-fracture networks, enhancing resource extraction efficiency.
• Analysis using x-ray tomography and digital image processing uncovers detailed micro-fracture characteristics.
• This work highlights the need for further exploration of micro-fracture effects on fluid dynamics in geologically complex formations.