Digital Rock Physics and Core Analysis Training Course
- Specialisation
- Oil & Gas Coring and Core Analysis
- Next dates
- 16 - 20 Nov 2026 (+3 more dates)
- Locations
- Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (+70 more locations)
- Duration
- 5 days · 15 CPD hours
The Micro-CT Imaging for Core Analysis Training Course by Institute For Oil & Gas Training develops the technical capabilities required to apply micro-computed tomography to advanced rock characterisation, digital core analysis and reservoir evaluation. The programme focuses on transforming high-resolution X-ray imaging data into three-dimensional representations of rock samples, enabling oil and gas professionals to examine pore structures, mineral distributions, internal features and fluid-relevant characteristics without relying exclusively on conventional two-dimensional measurements.
Core analysis remains a fundamental component of reservoir characterisation, formation evaluation and field development planning. Conventional laboratory measurements provide important information about porosity, permeability, grain density and other petrophysical properties. However, these measurements do not always reveal the detailed internal geometry of reservoir rocks. Understanding the distribution, shape and connectivity of pores requires more advanced imaging and analytical techniques. Micro-CT imaging addresses this requirement by producing detailed three-dimensional representations of internal rock structures.
The oil and gas industry increasingly integrates digital technologies into subsurface evaluation. Exploration and production companies require dependable geological and petrophysical information to improve reservoir models, evaluate rock quality and understand the physical characteristics controlling fluid movement. Micro-computed tomography provides an additional level of detail by capturing internal rock features at microscopic resolution. This supports pore structure visualization, digital core reconstruction and detailed rock microstructure analysis.
Despite the growing availability of advanced imaging technologies, organisations face a skills gap between acquiring high-resolution images and converting them into meaningful engineering information. Effective interpretation requires an understanding of X-ray imaging principles, scanning parameters, sample preparation, image reconstruction, segmentation techniques and quantitative image analysis. Without these capabilities, technical teams struggle to establish consistent workflows and extract the full value of digital core imaging.
This course addresses that gap by developing an integrated understanding of the micro-CT imaging workflow. Participants examine how X-ray attenuation produces volumetric datasets, how scanning conditions influence image quality and how reconstruction algorithms convert projection data into three-dimensional images. The programme also explores image segmentation, pore network extraction, pore connectivity evaluation and the interpretation of digital rock properties.
A major focus is the relationship between image-derived information and conventional core analysis. Participants examine how three-dimensional imaging complements laboratory measurements, supports the investigation of heterogeneous formations and improves understanding of complex pore systems. The programme also addresses the limitations of image resolution, segmentation uncertainty, representative sample selection and the importance of quality assurance when interpreting digital rock data.
Institute For Oil & Gas Training delivers this programme for professionals involved in coring, core laboratory operations, petrophysics, reservoir engineering, geology and subsurface technology. It provides a practical foundation for incorporating 3D core imaging into established technical workflows and improving the quality of subsurface information used in exploration, reservoir development and production optimisation.
By completing this training, participants strengthen their ability to assess micro-CT datasets, interpret internal rock characteristics and communicate imaging results in an operationally relevant format. Organisations gain personnel who understand how digital imaging supports more comprehensive core evaluation, more informed reservoir characterisation and stronger integration between laboratory measurements and subsurface interpretation.
Explain the principles and applications of micro-computed tomography in oil and gas core analysis.
Understand X-ray attenuation, image acquisition and the factors affecting scanning quality.
Identify suitable rock samples and preparation requirements for micro-CT investigations.
Evaluate scanning parameters, spatial resolution and voxel dimensions in relation to analytical objectives.
Interpret three-dimensional core imaging datasets and recognise important internal rock features.
Apply image processing and segmentation principles to distinguish pore spaces and solid materials.
Understand digital core reconstruction and the creation of volumetric rock representations.
Examine pore geometry, pore size distribution and internal structural characteristics.
Evaluate pore connectivity and understand its significance for reservoir characterisation.
Identify fractures, vugs, grain boundaries and other features influencing rock microstructure.
Recognise imaging artefacts, segmentation uncertainty and limitations associated with image resolution.
Relate image-derived observations to conventional porosity, permeability and core laboratory measurements.
Understand the role of digital rock analysis in reservoir evaluation and subsurface modelling.
Establish more consistent approaches to documenting, interpreting and reporting micro-CT results.
Integrate digital imaging information into multidisciplinary core analysis workflows.
The Micro-CT Imaging for Core Analysis Training Course uses an applied, industry-focused methodology that connects imaging principles with the practical requirements of oil and gas core analysis. Institute For Oil & Gas Training structures the programme around the workflows involved in sample preparation, X-ray scanning, image reconstruction, digital interpretation and quantitative rock characterisation.
The delivery approach combines specialist presentations, technical case studies, guided interpretation exercises, group discussions and real-world subsurface scenarios. Each learning activity reinforces the relationship between imaging technology and the geological, petrophysical and reservoir engineering requirements addressed through digital core analysis.
Specialist presentations establish the technical foundation for understanding micro-computed tomography. Participants examine X-ray attenuation, spatial resolution, voxel dimensions, contrast generation and scanning configurations. These sessions explain how imaging conditions influence the visibility of different rock constituents and internal pore features, providing a clear understanding of the technical principles behind micro-CT applications.
Guided exercises introduce the stages involved in preparing rock samples, selecting scanning parameters and reviewing reconstructed image volumes. Participants examine how sample dimensions, material density, imaging resolution and acquisition quality influence subsequent interpretation. This approach develops an understanding of the practical considerations involved in obtaining reliable imaging data.
Image interpretation activities focus on distinguishing solid rock components, pore spaces, fractures and other internal features. Participants explore image filtering, threshold selection, segmentation and three-dimensional visualisation. These exercises demonstrate how processing decisions influence digital core reconstruction and the representation of internal rock structures.
Case studies reflect typical core analysis requirements across sandstone, carbonate and heterogeneous reservoir formations. Participants investigate how different pore geometries, mineral distributions and structural features influence digital interpretation. The examples connect imaging observations with practical questions concerning reservoir quality, rock properties and subsurface evaluation.
Collaborative exercises encourage participants to compare interpretation approaches, evaluate image quality and discuss sources of uncertainty. These activities strengthen technical communication between geology, petrophysics, laboratory and reservoir engineering functions. Participants also develop a better understanding of how different technical disciplines use micro-CT information within their respective workflows.
Participants explore the transformation of image volumes into digital representations suitable for quantitative analysis. The exercises address segmentation consistency, image artefacts, pore geometry and the extraction of meaningful structural information. This develops their understanding of how reconstructed datasets support pore structure visualization and rock microstructure analysis.
The final delivery stages connect micro-CT workflows with established core analysis practices. Participants examine how image-derived information supports reservoir characterisation, laboratory investigations, geological interpretation and technical reporting. The sessions also demonstrate the relevance of digital imaging to pore connectivity evaluation and the integration of digital core data into multidisciplinary subsurface workflows.
Through this methodology, Institute For Oil & Gas Training ensures that participants understand both the technical principles of micro-CT imaging and the practical value of its outputs in oil and gas core analysis and reservoir evaluation.
Investment in Micro-CT Imaging for Core Analysis training strengthens an organisation's ability to convert advanced imaging data into dependable subsurface information. For exploration and production companies, this capability supports more detailed reservoir characterisation, improved understanding of rock properties and stronger integration between laboratory investigations and geological interpretation.
Micro-CT imaging provides detailed information about the internal structure of reservoir rocks. Organisations gain a more comprehensive understanding of pore geometry, grain arrangements, fractures and mineral distributions. This supports more detailed assessment of reservoir heterogeneity, improved interpretation of pore size distribution and better identification of complex pore systems.
Three-dimensional visualisation strengthens geological interpretation by revealing internal rock features that conventional examination does not fully capture. Organisations can use this information to improve reservoir quality assessments across different rock types and provide more detailed technical information for reservoir engineering and subsurface development teams.
Digital core imaging complements conventional laboratory measurements by revealing internal features that are difficult to assess through bulk measurements alone. Organisations gain additional information for investigating relationships between pore structure, porosity and permeability.
Improved digital core analysis supports more informed laboratory investigations and provides additional evidence when evaluating differences between measured and image-derived rock properties. This strengthens the interpretation of core samples and improves the integration of imaging results into established laboratory workflows.
Pore connectivity evaluation provides insight into the geometry and continuity of internal pore networks. This information supports investigations into the structural characteristics that influence fluid movement through reservoir formations.
Organisations gain a better understanding of connected and isolated pore spaces, pore throat relationships and potential fluid pathways. More detailed interpretation of internal rock heterogeneity also provides additional information for digital rock physics investigations. These insights contribute to comprehensive reservoir evaluation and support the interpretation of complex formation characteristics.
Micro-CT imaging generates volumetric datasets that support additional interpretation beyond conventional core photographs and two-dimensional sections. Organisations can extract multiple types of structural information from the same reconstructed volume.
This improves the value obtained from core samples by supporting repeatable digital examination, image-based measurements and comparisons between different sample regions. It also strengthens collaboration between laboratory specialists, petrophysicists and reservoir engineers by providing a shared three-dimensional representation of internal rock characteristics.
Better access to internal rock structure information strengthens the evidence available for technical decisions. Organisations can use digital core reconstruction and rock microstructure analysis to investigate formation variability, evaluate potential sources of uncertainty and support reservoir modelling activities.
The resulting information improves technical discussions concerning reservoir quality, sample representativeness and the interpretation of core analysis results. It also provides additional evidence for multidisciplinary assessments involving geological characteristics and petrophysical properties.
Consistent scanning, reconstruction and segmentation practices improve the comparability of imaging results. Organisations benefit when technical teams use documented procedures and clearly defined image evaluation criteria.
Better documentation of scanning conditions, systematic image quality assessment and consistent segmentation decisions strengthen the reliability of digital core analysis workflows. Improved traceability of digital datasets and structured reporting of image-derived properties also support technical review, information management and collaboration between laboratory teams.
Micro-CT imaging connects laboratory analysis with geology, petrophysics, reservoir engineering and digital technology. Training personnel in a shared technical workflow improves communication between these disciplines.
Geologists gain a better understanding of internal rock features, petrophysicists gain additional information for evaluating pore systems, and reservoir engineers gain access to more detailed structural data for reservoir characterisation. This shared technical understanding supports more effective collaboration throughout subsurface evaluation and development activities.
The Micro-CT Imaging for Core Analysis Training Course develops specialist knowledge and practical interpretation capabilities for professionals working with core samples, digital imaging and reservoir evaluation. Participants gain a stronger understanding of how advanced imaging technologies contribute to modern oil and gas subsurface workflows.
Participants develop a structured understanding of micro-computed tomography and its applications in rock characterisation. They learn how X-ray attenuation, scanning geometry, spatial resolution and image reconstruction influence the quality and interpretation of digital core images.
This knowledge strengthens their ability to engage with advanced imaging projects and understand the technical considerations involved in selecting suitable imaging approaches. It also provides a stronger foundation for working with digital imaging technologies in core laboratory and subsurface evaluation environments.
Participants develop the ability to examine three-dimensional datasets and recognise important internal rock characteristics. They gain knowledge of image visualisation, segmentation, pore identification and digital core reconstruction.
These capabilities strengthen their contribution to digital core analysis and improve their understanding of image-derived geological and petrophysical information. Participants also develop a more structured approach to examining reconstructed images and interpreting the characteristics of different reservoir rock types.
The programme develops participants' understanding of pore geometry, pore distribution and pore connectivity. They learn how these characteristics influence the interpretation of reservoir rock structure and how image-derived information complements conventional core measurements.
This knowledge strengthens their ability to examine connected and isolated pore spaces, understand pore throat relationships and interpret the structural characteristics associated with fluid movement through reservoir formations.
Participants gain a structured approach to reviewing image quality, identifying artefacts and recognising the limitations of digital measurements. They develop a better understanding of how scanning resolution, image processing and segmentation decisions influence interpretation.
This supports more informed technical discussions and more defensible interpretation of micro-CT results. Participants also become better equipped to recognise uncertainty and distinguish direct imaging observations from conclusions derived through further analysis.
The skills developed through this programme are relevant to several technical functions, including core analysis, petrophysics, reservoir engineering, digital rock physics and subsurface research.
Participants strengthen their ability to work across multidisciplinary teams and contribute to projects involving advanced imaging and reservoir characterisation. Their understanding of digital core workflows also improves their professional versatility when working with laboratory specialists, geologists and reservoir development teams.
Participants improve their understanding of communicating imaging results through visual representations, quantitative observations and structured technical reports. They learn to distinguish direct image observations from interpretations and recognise the importance of documenting processing assumptions.
This capability supports clearer communication of pore structures, internal rock characteristics and image-derived measurements. It also strengthens their ability to present technical findings to colleagues, project teams and management.
Knowledge of digital imaging and advanced core analysis strengthens professional capability in an increasingly technology-driven oil and gas industry. Participants gain a stronger technical foundation for responsibilities involving digital core workflows, laboratory investigations, subsurface evaluation and reservoir characterisation.
The programme also broadens their understanding of emerging digital approaches to rock analysis, supporting continued professional development and greater involvement in multidisciplinary subsurface projects.
Core Analysis Engineers: Strengthen their understanding of digital imaging techniques and their application to conventional core analysis.
Core Laboratory Specialists: Develop knowledge of micro-CT scanning, sample preparation and image interpretation workflows.
Petrophysicists: Improve their ability to investigate pore structures and integrate imaging information into petrophysical evaluations.
Reservoir Engineers: Understand how three-dimensional rock structure information supports reservoir characterisation and fluid flow investigations.
Geologists and Sedimentologists: Develop additional capabilities for examining grain arrangements, fractures, pore systems and geological heterogeneity.
Digital Rock Physics Specialists: Strengthen their understanding of image-based rock reconstruction and microstructural analysis.
Formation Evaluation Specialists: Expand their knowledge of advanced imaging techniques that complement conventional formation evaluation.
Research and Development Engineers: Explore the technical applications of micro-CT imaging in rock physics and subsurface technology development.
Core Laboratory Supervisors: Improve their understanding of imaging workflows, quality assessment and technical reporting.
Petrophysics and Geoscience Team Leaders: Strengthen their ability to assess digital core analysis outputs and coordinate multidisciplinary technical activities.
Subsurface Technology Managers: Understand the organisational applications of micro-CT imaging and its contribution to digital subsurface workflows.
Technical Consultants and Service Company Specialists: Expand their technical capabilities in advanced imaging and core characterisation services.
This module introduces the technical principles of micro-computed tomography and its role in modern oil and gas core analysis. Participants examine how X-ray imaging captures internal rock characteristics and how volumetric datasets provide information beyond conventional two-dimensional core examination.
The module establishes the relationship between X-ray attenuation, material density, image contrast and spatial resolution. It also examines the applications of micro-CT imaging in sandstone, carbonate and heterogeneous reservoir formations, establishing the technical foundation for subsequent scanning and interpretation activities.
Establishes general principles for industrial X-ray computed tomography.
Addresses CT equipment, sample characteristics, materials and geometry.
Provides consistent definitions of computed tomography performance parameters.
Supports understanding of the relationship between system specifications and imaging performance.
Provides a recognised technical reference for understanding industrial CT applications.
Explain the operating principles of micro-computed tomography.
Describe the interaction between X-rays and rock materials.
Understand the importance of attenuation and image contrast.
Differentiate between two-dimensional imaging and three-dimensional core reconstruction.
Identify the principal components of a micro-CT imaging system.
Explain the significance of spatial resolution and voxel dimensions.
Recognise the applications of micro-CT imaging in reservoir evaluation.
Identify the limitations of digital core imaging in geological investigations.
This module focuses on the practical requirements for preparing rock samples and acquiring high-quality micro-CT datasets. Participants examine how sample dimensions, mineral composition, density variations and internal heterogeneity influence scanning decisions.
The module also explores scanning configurations, image acquisition parameters and the relationship between imaging objectives and equipment performance. Particular attention is given to selecting appropriate scanning conditions to capture relevant pore structures and internal geological features while maintaining suitable image quality.
Provides guidance on the principles and use of industrial computed tomography.
Explains three-dimensional X-ray imaging and internal material examination.
Establishes terminology for CT system performance characteristics.
Supports understanding of the relationship between imaging requirements and equipment capabilities.
Provides a recognised reference for evaluating the suitability of CT imaging approaches.
Identify appropriate rock samples for micro-CT investigations.
Explain the importance of sample preparation and geometry.
Understand the influence of rock composition on X-ray imaging.
Identify the principal scanning parameters.
Evaluate the relationship between magnification, field of view and resolution.
Understand how scanning configurations affect image quality.
Recognise common artefacts in acquired CT datasets.
Apply systematic considerations when reviewing image acquisition quality.
Understand the importance of consistent scanning documentation.
This module examines how raw X-ray projection data is converted into usable three-dimensional digital core images. Participants explore the reconstruction process and understand how computational methods produce volumetric representations of internal rock structures.
The module also focuses on image enhancement, filtering, segmentation and classification. Participants examine how processing decisions influence the visibility and identification of pore spaces, mineral components, fractures and other geological features. Particular emphasis is placed on maintaining consistency between the original scan data and the reconstructed digital representation.
Addresses the operation and interpretation of industrial computed tomography systems.
Provides guidance on the interpretation of CT results.
Explains the relationship between system operation and suitable imaging parameters.
Establishes consistent terminology for CT performance characteristics.
Supports systematic evaluation and interpretation of reconstructed imaging information.
Explain the principles of tomographic image reconstruction.
Understand how projection data becomes three-dimensional image volumes.
Identify the main stages of image processing.
Evaluate the importance of filtering and image enhancement.
Understand threshold-based and other segmentation approaches.
Distinguish pore spaces from solid rock components in reconstructed images.
Explain how segmentation influences digital core representation.
Recognise processing artefacts and inconsistencies.
Understand the importance of maintaining original image data.
Interpret reconstructed datasets for subsequent quantitative analysis.
This module focuses on extracting meaningful geological and petrophysical information from reconstructed micro-CT datasets. Participants examine how three-dimensional imaging reveals pore geometry, grain relationships, fractures and other internal features that influence reservoir rock characteristics.
The module develops an understanding of pore structure visualization, pore size distribution and pore connectivity evaluation. Participants explore how image-based measurements support the investigation of connected and isolated pore spaces and how digital representations contribute to understanding the structural characteristics associated with fluid movement through reservoir rocks.
Establishes a test method for measuring computed tomography system performance.
Addresses spatial resolution in reconstructed CT volumes.
Evaluates contrast sensitivity and image noise.
Uses image-based measurements to assess system performance.
Supports systematic consideration of the imaging capabilities required to identify internal features.
Identify different pore geometries within reconstructed digital core images.
Interpret three-dimensional pore structures and their spatial relationships.
Understand pore size distribution and geometric characteristics.
Examine grain boundaries, fractures and internal discontinuities.
Explain the principles of pore connectivity evaluation.
Distinguish connected pore systems from isolated pore spaces.
Understand the relationship between pore geometry and fluid flow characteristics.
Interpret image-derived porosity and recognise its limitations.
Evaluate the influence of spatial resolution on microstructure analysis.
Understand how quantitative image analysis supports reservoir characterisation.
This module integrates the knowledge developed throughout the programme into a comprehensive digital core analysis workflow. Participants examine how reconstructed images and quantitative microstructural information contribute to reservoir evaluation, petrophysical interpretation and digital rock physics investigations.
The module also addresses quality assurance, technical validation, data management and reporting. Participants explore how image-derived information is compared with conventional laboratory measurements and how digital core datasets support multidisciplinary interpretation. The focus is on developing consistent and technically defensible workflows that connect micro-CT imaging outputs with practical oil and gas applications.
Specifies general requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories.
Addresses laboratory personnel competence and technical procedures.
Establishes requirements concerning equipment, measurement traceability and quality management.
Supports the validity and reliability of laboratory results.
Provides a framework for documenting testing activities and managing technical records.
Reinforces the importance of appropriate quality assurance in laboratory operations.
Understand the complete digital core imaging workflow.
Explain how reconstructed datasets support digital rock analysis.
Integrate micro-CT observations with conventional core laboratory measurements.
Understand the application of digital rock models in reservoir evaluation.
Examine the relationship between pore characteristics and reservoir properties.
Recognise the importance of representative sample selection.
Identify sources of uncertainty in image-derived measurements.
Understand quality assurance and validation requirements.
Apply structured approaches to digital dataset documentation.
Communicate micro-CT findings through technical reports and visual outputs.
Identify practical applications of digital core analysis in oil and gas operations.
Upon successful completion of the Micro-CT Imaging for Core Analysis Training Course, participants receive a Certificate of Completion from Institute For Oil & Gas Training.
The certificate recognises participation in the programme and completion of its training requirements. Participants must satisfy the required attendance criteria and attend at least 80 percent of the overall course duration to qualify for the Certificate of Completion.
Fees include tuition, course materials and refreshments. Need different dates or a different city? Ask about your preferred date.
The course develops an understanding of micro-computed tomography and its applications in oil and gas core analysis. It covers X-ray imaging principles, core sample preparation, image acquisition, three-dimensional reconstruction, segmentation, pore structure visualization and quantitative microstructure analysis. Participants also examine pore connectivity evaluation and the integration of digital imaging with conventional core laboratory measurements.
Micro-CT imaging provides three-dimensional information about the internal structure of reservoir rocks. It enables technical professionals to investigate pore geometry, grain arrangements, fractures and internal heterogeneity without relying exclusively on conventional two-dimensional examination. This additional information supports reservoir characterisation, digital rock physics and a better understanding of the structural features associated with fluid movement.
The programme is suitable for core analysis engineers, laboratory specialists, petrophysicists, reservoir engineers, geologists, sedimentologists, digital rock physics specialists and subsurface technology professionals. It also benefits technical supervisors, research and development personnel and managers responsible for core analysis and reservoir evaluation.
Yes. The programme includes dedicated modules on image reconstruction, processing, segmentation and quantitative microstructure analysis. Participants explore how digital core reconstruction produces three-dimensional representations of rock samples and how pore connectivity evaluation helps identify connected and isolated pore spaces. The course also examines the limitations of image resolution and segmentation when interpreting internal rock characteristics.
Yes. Participants receive a Certificate of Completion from Institute For Oil & Gas Training upon successfully completing the programme requirements. Attendance of at least 80 percent of the overall course duration is required to qualify for the certificate.
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Next: 16 Nov 2026
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