An evaluation method for glutenite heterogeneity based on elastic wave velocity

To identify the distribution differences between fractures and interlayer gravels within glutenite cores, accurately evaluate spatial heterogeneity, and enhance hydrocarbon recovery efficiency, this study employed elastic ultrasonic wave velocity—a parameter highly sensitive to variations in the internal rock structure—to measure wave velocities in 18 outcrop cores collected from the Shawan Sag in the Junggar Basin. A non-destructive evaluation method for heterogeneity was established based on stratified elastic wave velocity measurements. Fifteen samples were utilized as test cores for heterogeneity assessment using this method, while the remaining three served as validation cores, with their velocity distributions compared for verification. The results demonstrate that: (1) the proposed method effectively identifies heterogeneity characteristics, such as gravel distribution and pore-fracture networks in glutenite, enabling an accurate assessment of spatial heterogeneity; (2) the method offers several advantages over conventional heterogeneity evaluation techniques, including non-destructiveness, high sensitivity, rapid measurement, and cost-effectiveness; and (3) consistent heterogeneity evaluation results were obtained between the test and validation cores. Therefore, this method can serve as a valuable reference for heterogeneity assessment in glutenite reservoirs.