Rock cores are cylindrical samples of rock extracted using a corer during drilling operations in the subsurface.
This coring process allows for the collection of intact samples of the in-situ rock, as opposed to chips or debris obtained from conventional drilling methods.
Analyzing rock cores provides geologists with valuable insights into the structure and composition of the rock, enabling a detailed assessment of the subsurface before drilling.
The main parameters evaluated include:
✓ The hardness of the rock, measured through quick hardness tests in the field.
✓ The texture, color, and mineralogy of the rock, determined through visual examination and laboratory analyses.
✓ The porosity and permeability of the rock, which indicate its potential to contain hydrocarbons or groundwater.
This information allows oil and gas companies to better plan and optimize their drilling and extraction operations. It is also crucial for geological and geotechnical studies of the subsurface.