Authors : Fatin Shahirah Manan, Mirza Arshad Beg and Askury Abd Kadir
Abstract: Dolomitization is a complex issue because it can develop and destroy matrix porosity. In many cases, dolomitized rock has better reservoir properties than limestone. This is because chemically during the dolomitization process, two moles of calcite are transformed to one mole of dolomite, causing a net rise in porosity. However, there are few factors that need to be considered as they may affect the porosity during dolomitization such as the characteristics of precursor sediments, subsequent leaching and cementation. The main objective of the study is to analyze the porosity and permeability of carbonate rocks in Kinta valley, Perak in relation to lithology of rocks. Systematic outcrop sampling technique is applied in collecting the samples for laboratory analysis. Core plugs were prepared for further analysis. Porosity and permeability of 13 selected core plugs from Hill E and B of Lafarge quarry were measured by using poroperm and helium porosimeter equipment. Hand samples were crushed by using grinder machine into powder form for X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) analysis. Mineralogical analysis is used to determine either the rocks are calcitic or dolomitic and to match with lithology. In average, the results show limestone has the highest porosity and permeability with the highest calcium content. While, argillaceous limestone has the lowest porosity and permeability compared to others. Dolomite rocks has slightly lower porosity and permeability than limestone but higher than argillaceous limestone.
Fatin Shahirah Manan, Mirza Arshad Beg and Askury Abd Kadir, 2020. Petrophysical Analysis of Palaeozoic Carbonate Rocks in Lafarge Quarry, Perak, Malaysia. Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences, 15: 2875-2884.