This report presents the results of laboratory investigations of low-permeability sandstones at the Institute of Gas Technology (IGT), Chicago. The core samples used in these studies were from the following wells: (1) Mapco RBU 11-17F well from the Uinta Basin, Utah; and (2) PTS 24-19 Federal from Sublette County, Wyoming. Core samples from the Greater Green River Basin in Wyoming were also used in some of the experiments. Permeability to gas was measured as a function of pore pressure, confining pressure, and partial water saturation. Porosity characteristics of the samples were also measured, and a new method was developed to measure pore volume compressibility of sandstone samples. A comprehensive theoretical analysis of anisotropy in porous media was completed, and a novel experimental technique was developed to characterize anisotropy in sandstone sediments. Correlations have been developed to describe the dependence of permeability of tight sandstones on confining pressure and partial water saturation. In addition, a cooperative program was developed with USGS Denver, whereby the results of petrographic analyses conducted at the USGS were used in conjunction with reservoir parameters measured at IGT to better understand the properties of tight sandstones. Topical reports on the measurement of directional permeability trends and another one on the dependence of porosity on confining pressure have been prepared and are presented as separate Special Reports.

Semiannual, with semiannual and annual indexes. References to all scientific and technical literature coming from DOE, its laboratories, energy centers, and contractors. Includes all works deriving from DOE, other related government-sponsored information, and foreign nonnuclear information. Arranged under 39 categories, e.g., Biomedical sciences, basic studies; Biomedical sciences, applied studies; Health and safety; and Fusion energy. Entry gives bibliographical information and abstract. Corporate, author, subject, report number indexes.