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Institute For Oil & Gas Training
OGI-1449 New

Unconventional Reservoir Core Analysis Training Course

Duration
5 days
CPD hours
15
Language
English
Next date
23 Nov 2026
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Overview

The Unconventional Reservoir Core Analysis Training Course by Institute For Oil & Gas Training develops the technical capabilities required to evaluate unconventional reservoir rocks, characterise complex pore structures and generate reliable laboratory data for exploration, development and production decisions. As oil and gas organisations increasingly focus on shale formations, tight reservoirs and other low-permeability resources, effective Unconventional Reservoir Core Analysis has become essential for understanding reservoir quality, estimating storage capacity and improving the technical basis of field development strategies.

Unconventional reservoirs present distinct challenges compared with conventional sandstone and carbonate formations. Their geological characteristics include extremely low permeability, complex pore networks, variable organic content, natural fractures and heterogeneous mineral compositions. These characteristics influence hydrocarbon storage, fluid movement, production performance and the effectiveness of completion strategies. Conventional core analysis procedures alone do not always provide sufficient information to describe these formations accurately. Organisations therefore require specialised unconventional core testing capabilities that account for the physical, mineralogical, geochemical and petrophysical properties of unconventional reservoir materials.

The Unconventional Reservoir Core Analysis Training Course addresses the technical requirements associated with evaluating shale, tight sandstone, organic-rich formations and other unconventional reservoir systems. It examines the principles of core preservation, sample preparation, laboratory measurement, pore structure characterisation, permeability assessment and geochemical evaluation. Participants develop a structured understanding of how laboratory measurements translate into meaningful reservoir properties and how different analytical techniques contribute to integrated formation evaluation.

A major focus of the course is shale core analysis, particularly the challenges associated with preserving representative samples and measuring properties that influence hydrocarbon storage and flow. Shale formations contain complex combinations of inorganic minerals, organic matter, micropores and natural fractures. These components create different storage and transport mechanisms that require careful analytical consideration. Participants examine how laboratory procedures distinguish between matrix properties, fracture characteristics and organic-associated porosity.

The programme also addresses the evaluation of tight reservoir samples, where extremely low permeability and restricted pore connectivity influence fluid movement. Accurate characterisation requires appropriate measurement techniques, controlled testing conditions and a clear understanding of the limitations associated with different laboratory methods. Participants explore the relationship between porosity, permeability, capillary pressure, fluid saturation and pore connectivity in unconventional formations.

Organic-rich rock evaluation forms another important element of the training. Total organic carbon, mineral composition, thermal maturity and organic matter distribution provide valuable information about source rock characteristics and hydrocarbon generation potential. Understanding these properties helps subsurface teams distinguish between reservoir quality, source rock potential and hydrocarbon storage characteristics. The course connects geochemical observations with petrophysical and geological interpretations to support more comprehensive reservoir assessments.

The programme further examines unconventional pore systems, including micropores, mesopores, macropores and organic-associated pore structures. These pore systems influence fluid storage, adsorption, diffusion and effective permeability. Participants explore how different laboratory methods investigate pore size distribution, specific surface area and pore connectivity, while recognising the limitations of individual analytical techniques.

Another central component is reservoir sample characterization. Participants examine the importance of representative sampling, sample preservation, laboratory quality control, analytical consistency and data integration. These practices support reliable comparisons between core samples, well intervals and reservoir zones. They also improve communication between laboratory specialists, geologists, petrophysicists and reservoir engineers.

The course connects laboratory measurements with practical oil and gas applications. Participants investigate how core analysis results contribute to reservoir classification, geological modelling, petrophysical interpretation, completion design and production forecasting. Particular attention is given to the integration of laboratory results with well logs, mineralogical information, geochemical data and other subsurface datasets.

Delivered by Institute For Oil & Gas Training, this programme is designed for professionals involved in unconventional resource evaluation, core laboratory operations, reservoir characterisation and field development. It provides a practical technical foundation for improving laboratory interpretation, strengthening subsurface data quality and supporting informed decisions throughout the unconventional reservoir lifecycle.

Objectives

  • Explain the geological and petrophysical characteristics of unconventional reservoirs, including shale formations, tight sandstone and organic-rich rocks.

  • Identify the principal challenges associated with unconventional core testing and representative reservoir sample selection.

  • Apply appropriate sample preparation and preservation principles when evaluating unconventional reservoir materials.

  • Explain the importance of maintaining sample integrity during handling, storage and laboratory analysis.

  • Evaluate porosity, permeability, grain density and fluid saturation measurements in unconventional formations.

  • Interpret laboratory measurements obtained from tight reservoir samples with extremely low permeability.

  • Explain the principles of shale core analysis and its contribution to reservoir characterisation.

  • Assess organic-rich rock properties using geochemical and mineralogical information.

  • Interpret total organic carbon measurements and their relevance to source rock evaluation.

  • Understand the characteristics and significance of unconventional pore systems.

  • Explain the application of gas adsorption, mercury intrusion and other pore characterisation techniques.

  • Evaluate pore size distribution, specific surface area and pore connectivity information.

  • Recognise the influence of natural fractures, mineral composition and organic matter on reservoir properties.

  • Assess the importance of laboratory quality assurance and measurement consistency.

  • Integrate core analysis results with geological, geochemical and petrophysical datasets.

  • Communicate unconventional reservoir evaluation findings through technically consistent reports.

Training methodology

Institute For Oil & Gas Training applies an industry-focused training methodology that combines technical presentations, laboratory case studies, guided analytical exercises, sample evaluation scenarios and structured group discussions. The delivery approach reflects the practical challenges of unconventional reservoir characterisation and connects laboratory principles with the operational responsibilities of oil and gas professionals.

The programme progresses from unconventional reservoir fundamentals to specialised core testing techniques and integrated interpretation. This structured approach enables participants to understand the analytical requirements of unconventional formations and how laboratory measurements contribute to reliable reservoir evaluation.

Technical Presentations and Guided Discussions

Technical presentations establish the geological and petrophysical principles underlying unconventional reservoir analysis. Participants examine the characteristics of shale formations, tight reservoirs and organic-rich rocks, including their mineral composition, pore structures, permeability behaviour and fluid storage mechanisms. These presentations provide a foundation for understanding the technical differences between conventional and unconventional reservoir evaluation.

Guided discussions address common challenges in unconventional core testing, including sample alteration, moisture sensitivity, stress-related changes, contamination and the interpretation of measurements obtained under different laboratory conditions. Participants explore how these factors influence analytical reliability and reservoir characterisation.

Industry-Based Case Studies

Industry-based case studies demonstrate how unconventional reservoir properties influence exploration, appraisal and development decisions. Participants examine practical examples involving shale core analysis, tight reservoir samples, pore structure evaluation and organic-rich rock characterisation.

These case studies focus on the relationship between laboratory measurements and reservoir performance. Participants assess how variations in porosity, permeability, mineralogy and organic content influence reservoir classification, formation evaluation and development considerations.

Practical Analytical Exercises

Practical analytical exercises introduce participants to the interpretation of common core analysis measurements, including porosity, permeability, fluid saturation, grain density, pore size distribution and geochemical properties. These exercises strengthen their understanding of the techniques used to evaluate unconventional reservoir samples.

Participants examine representative laboratory datasets and identify the analytical considerations affecting measurement reliability. Particular attention is given to sample preparation, testing consistency, quality assurance and appropriate interpretation of laboratory results.

Integrated Reservoir Interpretation Scenarios

Integrated interpretation scenarios require participants to combine geological, geochemical and petrophysical information to develop a more comprehensive understanding of unconventional reservoir characteristics. These activities demonstrate how individual analytical datasets contribute to reservoir evaluation and subsurface decision-making.

Participants explore the relationship between laboratory measurements, well log responses, mineralogical composition and reservoir heterogeneity. This approach strengthens their ability to interpret core analysis results within the wider geological and petrophysical context.

Group Exercises and Technical Discussions

Group exercises encourage participants to evaluate unconventional reservoir challenges from different professional perspectives. Geologists, petrophysicists, reservoir engineers and laboratory specialists examine how their respective datasets contribute to reservoir characterisation and development planning.

These collaborative activities strengthen technical communication, encourage knowledge sharing and promote a consistent understanding of unconventional reservoir properties across multidisciplinary teams.

Real-World Operational Applications

The methodology connects technical knowledge with practical operational requirements, including laboratory programme planning, sample selection, testing priorities, data validation and technical reporting. Participants examine how analytical results support reservoir screening, geological modelling, development planning and production optimisation.

Through applied interpretation and operational scenarios, participants develop a clearer understanding of how unconventional core analysis contributes to exploration and development activities. Institute For Oil & Gas Training ensures that the learning approach remains relevant to the technical responsibilities and practical requirements of professionals working in unconventional oil and gas operations.

Organisational impact

Investing in specialised unconventional core analysis capabilities strengthens the technical foundation of exploration, appraisal and development activities. Organisations operating in shale and tight reservoir environments benefit from reliable laboratory measurements that improve understanding of complex geological formations and support informed decisions about resource development.

Improved Reservoir Characterisation

Accurate reservoir sample characterization provides organisations with a clearer understanding of formation heterogeneity, pore structure, mineral composition and hydrocarbon storage characteristics. High-quality core analysis data supports geological modelling, improves reservoir classification and strengthens the technical basis for identifying productive and less favourable reservoir intervals.

More Reliable Laboratory Data

A structured understanding of sample preparation, preservation, testing procedures and quality control improves the consistency and reliability of laboratory outputs. Organisations benefit from stronger analytical workflows, more defensible interpretations and greater confidence in the datasets used for unconventional reservoir evaluation.

Better Development Planning

Understanding porosity, permeability, pore connectivity and fluid storage mechanisms supports more informed reservoir development decisions. Reliable core analysis results provide essential inputs for evaluating reservoir quality, assessing formation characteristics and supporting completion and stimulation planning.

Improved Integration Between Technical Departments

Unconventional reservoir evaluation requires effective collaboration between geology, petrophysics, geochemistry, reservoir engineering and laboratory teams. Shared technical understanding improves communication, strengthens data integration and reduces interpretation inconsistencies between departments, resulting in more coordinated subsurface evaluation.

More Effective Laboratory Programme Management

Knowledge of unconventional core testing methods helps organisations establish appropriate analytical programmes based on specific reservoir evaluation requirements. Laboratory teams become better equipped to select relevant measurements, establish testing priorities and recognise analytical limitations, improving the efficiency and technical value of laboratory operations.

Stronger Technical Risk Management

Unconventional formations present technical uncertainties associated with sample heterogeneity, stress sensitivity, fluid distribution and complex pore structures. Improved understanding of these factors helps organisations identify data limitations, assess measurement uncertainty and minimise unsupported assumptions during reservoir interpretation and development planning.

Greater Operational Efficiency

Appropriate test selection, improved sample management and consistent analytical procedures reduce unnecessary testing repetition and help laboratory teams concentrate on measurements that address defined technical requirements. Better interpretation and reporting also improve the flow of information between laboratory specialists and subsurface decision-makers.

Improved Resource Evaluation

Organic-rich rock evaluation and pore structure characterisation provide valuable information about hydrocarbon storage, source rock properties and reservoir quality. Integrating these measurements with geological and petrophysical datasets supports more comprehensive assessments of unconventional resource potential and development priorities.

Consistent Technical Standards

Awareness of recognised laboratory measurement standards encourages disciplined testing, documentation, quality assurance and reporting practices. This strengthens internal quality management, improves analytical consistency and supports better comparability of laboratory results across different projects and operational locations.

Personal impact

Participants develop specialised technical knowledge and practical analytical capabilities that strengthen their professional contribution to unconventional reservoir evaluation, laboratory operations and field development activities. The course improves their understanding of complex reservoir properties and equips them to contribute more effectively to multidisciplinary technical teams.

Advanced Unconventional Reservoir Knowledge

Participants gain a deeper understanding of the geological and petrophysical characteristics that distinguish unconventional formations from conventional reservoirs. This knowledge strengthens their ability to evaluate shale formations, tight sandstone reservoirs and organic-rich rocks while recognising the influence of mineral composition, natural fractures and complex pore structures on reservoir behaviour.

Improved Core Analysis Interpretation

The course develops practical understanding of porosity, permeability, pore size distribution, grain density and fluid saturation measurements. Participants strengthen their ability to evaluate laboratory datasets, interpret unconventional reservoir properties and recognise the factors that influence measurement reliability and analytical accuracy.

Specialised Shale Evaluation Capabilities

Participants strengthen their understanding of shale core analysis, organic matter distribution, mineral composition and unconventional pore systems. These capabilities support more informed technical discussions involving source rock properties, hydrocarbon storage mechanisms and unconventional reservoir quality.

Better Understanding of Laboratory Methods

Participants develop familiarity with analytical approaches used to investigate unconventional reservoir characteristics. They improve their understanding of the applications and limitations of gas adsorption, mercury intrusion porosimetry, mineralogical analysis and imaging techniques, enabling more effective evaluation of laboratory results.

Enhanced Technical Decision-Making

The ability to assess laboratory measurements alongside geological, geochemical and petrophysical information strengthens professional judgement. Participants improve their capacity to identify data limitations, compare analytical results, evaluate reservoir characteristics and communicate technically supported conclusions during subsurface evaluation activities.

Improved Multidisciplinary Collaboration

Professionals develop a broader understanding of the technical information required by geology, reservoir engineering, petrophysics, geochemistry and laboratory teams. This strengthens their ability to exchange technical information, contribute to integrated reservoir studies and collaborate effectively on unconventional resource evaluation projects.

Stronger Career Development

Specialised knowledge of unconventional core analysis enhances the technical capabilities of professionals working in reservoir characterisation, laboratory analysis, geoscience and field development. Participants acquire relevant expertise that strengthens their professional profile and supports career progression within specialised unconventional oil and gas operations.

Greater Professional Confidence

A stronger understanding of sample integrity, testing principles, analytical quality and interpretation limitations enables participants to contribute more confidently to technical reviews, laboratory programme discussions and reservoir evaluation meetings. They develop greater confidence in assessing unconventional core analysis results and presenting technical findings to colleagues and management.

Who should attend

  • Geologists: Professionals responsible for evaluating shale formations, tight reservoirs, lithology and geological heterogeneity.

  • Petrophysicists: Specialists integrating core measurements with well log information to evaluate reservoir properties.

  • Reservoir Engineers: Engineers using porosity, permeability, saturation and pore structure data for reservoir assessment and development planning.

  • Core Analysis Specialists: Professionals responsible for conventional and unconventional core testing, laboratory measurements and analytical reporting.

  • Laboratory Managers and Supervisors: Managers overseeing core preparation, laboratory testing programmes, measurement quality and technical reporting.

  • Geochemistry Specialists: Professionals evaluating organic-rich rocks, total organic carbon, mineral composition and source rock characteristics.

  • Petroleum Engineers: Engineers requiring a stronger understanding of unconventional reservoir properties and laboratory evaluation methods.

  • Exploration and Appraisal Professionals: Specialists assessing unconventional resource potential and geological characteristics during exploration and appraisal activities.

  • Formation Evaluation Specialists: Professionals integrating geological, petrophysical and laboratory datasets for reservoir interpretation.

  • Subsurface Data Analysts: Specialists responsible for processing, validating and integrating unconventional reservoir datasets.

  • Technical Services Managers: Managers overseeing subsurface evaluation, laboratory services and technical support functions.

  • Research and Development Professionals: Technical specialists involved in improving core testing procedures and unconventional reservoir evaluation techniques.

  • Asset Managers and Technical Team Leaders: Senior professionals responsible for evaluating reservoir information and supporting field development decisions.

Course outline

Unconventional reservoirs require specialised evaluation because their geological, mineralogical and petrophysical properties differ considerably from those of conventional formations. Their low permeability, complex pore networks, organic matter distribution and natural fracture systems influence hydrocarbon storage and transport.

This module establishes the technical foundation for Unconventional Reservoir Core Analysis. Participants examine the characteristics of shale, tight sandstone and other unconventional formations, with particular attention to sample representativeness, geological heterogeneity and the relationship between reservoir composition and measurable rock properties.

  1. ISO 22475-1

    • Establishes principles and requirements for geotechnical investigation sampling methods and groundwater measurements.

    • Addresses the quality and classification of samples obtained during ground investigations.

    • Provides a recognised reference for understanding sampling quality and sample disturbance.

    • Supports consideration of sample integrity when establishing geological investigation procedures.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Explain the principal characteristics of unconventional reservoirs.

    • Differentiate between shale, tight sandstone and other unconventional formations.

    • Identify the geological factors influencing reservoir heterogeneity.

    • Explain the relationship between mineral composition, organic matter and reservoir properties.

    • Recognise the influence of natural fractures on reservoir characterisation.

    • Assess the importance of representative sampling and sample integrity.

    • Identify the principal challenges associated with unconventional reservoir evaluation.

The reliability of unconventional core analysis depends on the quality and condition of the samples entering the laboratory. Shale and other low-permeability formations are particularly sensitive to changes in moisture content, pressure, temperature and handling conditions. These changes influence the physical characteristics of the samples and affect the interpretation of laboratory measurements.

This module examines the procedures and technical considerations involved in sample selection, handling, preparation and preservation. Participants explore the importance of maintaining sample integrity and establishing consistent laboratory workflows for unconventional core testing.

  1. ASTM D4543

    • Covers preparation of rock core specimens for testing.

    • Provides guidance on specimen dimensions, geometry and preparation quality.

    • Addresses the importance of suitable end preparation and specimen condition.

    • Supports consistency in preparing rock specimens for laboratory testing.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Explain the importance of representative unconventional core sampling.

    • Identify sample handling risks affecting laboratory measurements.

    • Describe appropriate preservation considerations for shale and organic-rich rocks.

    • Recognise the effects of moisture loss and sample disturbance.

    • Understand the principles of core cutting, trimming and plug preparation.

    • Establish appropriate sample identification and documentation practices.

    • Evaluate the importance of sample quality control and traceability.

The physical properties of unconventional reservoir rocks provide essential information about hydrocarbon storage, fluid movement and reservoir quality. However, extremely low permeability, complex pore structures and stress-sensitive rock characteristics create specific measurement challenges.

This module examines the principal laboratory methods used to determine porosity, permeability, grain density and fluid saturation. Participants explore the interpretation of these measurements and their relationship with reservoir behaviour. Particular attention is given to tight reservoir samples and the analytical considerations required when working with low-permeability formations.

  1. API RP 40

    • Provides historical guidance on core analysis procedures and laboratory measurements.

    • Addresses conventional core analysis principles, including porosity, permeability and fluid saturation.

    • Offers technical background for understanding core measurement practices.

    • Was withdrawn in 2021 and is retained here strictly as a historical technical reference rather than a current active standard.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Explain the principles of petrophysical core testing.

    • Interpret porosity and grain density measurements.

    • Understand permeability measurement challenges in tight formations.

    • Explain gas slippage and the Klinkenberg effect.

    • Evaluate the influence of confining pressure on permeability.

    • Understand the significance of fluid saturation measurements.

    • Assess the limitations of different laboratory testing methods.

    • Relate physical core measurements to unconventional reservoir quality.

Organic-rich rocks contain complex combinations of mineral matter, kerogen, inorganic pores and organic-associated pore structures. Their storage characteristics and hydrocarbon transport mechanisms require integrated geochemical, mineralogical and petrophysical evaluation.

This module focuses on organic-rich rock evaluation and the characterisation of unconventional pore systems. Participants examine total organic carbon, mineral composition, thermal maturity and pore size distribution. The module also introduces analytical techniques used to investigate microporosity, mesoporosity, macroporosity and specific surface area.

  1. ISO 16595

    • Specifies a method for determining total organic carbon in solid recovered fuels.

    • Provides a recognised analytical reference for carbon determination in solid materials.

    • Supports understanding of controlled analytical procedures and measurement quality.

    • Is not a shale-specific or petroleum source rock testing standard, so its application to geological samples requires appropriate method validation.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Explain the significance of organic matter in unconventional reservoirs.

    • Interpret total organic carbon measurements in the context of source rock evaluation.

    • Understand the relationship between mineral composition and organic-rich rock properties.

    • Identify different types of unconventional pore systems.

    • Explain the principles of gas adsorption and pore size characterisation.

    • Understand the applications and limitations of mercury intrusion porosimetry.

    • Interpret pore structure information from imaging techniques.

    • Evaluate the relationship between pore size distribution and hydrocarbon storage.

    • Recognise the importance of integrating geochemical and petrophysical information.

Unconventional reservoir evaluation requires the integration of laboratory measurements with geological, geochemical and petrophysical information. Individual measurements provide valuable insights, but their interpretation becomes more meaningful when considered within the wider geological and reservoir context.

This module examines advanced unconventional core testing considerations and the integration of laboratory datasets. Participants explore how reservoir sample characterization supports geological modelling, formation evaluation, reservoir classification and development planning. The module also addresses data quality, analytical uncertainty and technical reporting.

  1. ISO/IEC 17025

    • Specifies general requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories.

    • Addresses laboratory management systems and technical competence.

    • Establishes principles for method validation, equipment control and measurement traceability.

    • Supports reliable testing, quality assurance and technically defensible laboratory results.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Evaluate advanced unconventional core analysis datasets.

    • Integrate porosity, permeability, mineralogical and geochemical measurements.

    • Relate laboratory results to well log and geological information.

    • Assess reservoir heterogeneity through integrated sample interpretation.

    • Understand the role of core data in geological and petrophysical modelling.

    • Identify analytical limitations and sources of measurement uncertainty.

    • Apply quality assurance principles when reviewing laboratory results.

    • Prepare technically consistent interpretations and reports.

    • Explain how unconventional core analysis supports reservoir development decisions.

Certificate

Upon successful completion of the Unconventional Reservoir Core Analysis Training Course, attendees receive a Certificate of Completion from Institute For Oil & Gas Training.

The certificate recognises participation in the programme and completion of its training requirements. Attendees are required to meet the minimum attendance requirement of 80 percent of the total course duration to qualify for the Certificate of Completion.

Course dates

  • Europe

    Middle East

    Asia

    Africa

    North America

    Online

    Fee: £3,800

  • Europe

    Middle East

    Asia

    Africa

    North America

    Online

    Fee: £3,800

  • Europe

    Middle East

    Asia

    Africa

    North America

    Online

    Fee: £3,800

  • Europe

    Middle East

    Asia

    Africa

    North America

    Online

    Fee: £3,800

Fees include tuition, course materials and refreshments. Need different dates or a different city? Ask about your preferred date.

Frequently asked questions

What is Unconventional Reservoir Core Analysis?

Unconventional Reservoir Core Analysis is the systematic evaluation of rock samples obtained from shale, tight sandstone and other low-permeability formations. It examines physical, petrophysical, mineralogical and geochemical properties, including porosity, permeability, organic content and pore structure. These measurements help oil and gas professionals understand reservoir quality, hydrocarbon storage and fluid transport characteristics.

What topics are covered in this training course?

The course covers unconventional reservoir characterisation, core sampling and preservation, laboratory preparation, porosity and permeability measurements, shale core analysis, organic-rich rock evaluation, pore size distribution, gas adsorption, mineralogical analysis and integrated reservoir interpretation. It also addresses laboratory quality assurance and the application of core analysis results to reservoir development.

Who should attend the Unconventional Reservoir Core Analysis Training Course?

The programme is suitable for geologists, petrophysicists, reservoir engineers, petroleum engineers, core analysis specialists, laboratory managers, geochemists and formation evaluation professionals. It also benefits technical managers and subsurface specialists involved in unconventional resource assessment and development planning.

How is the course delivered?

Institute For Oil & Gas Training delivers the programme through technical presentations, industry case studies, guided analytical exercises, practical interpretation scenarios and group discussions. The methodology connects laboratory testing principles with real-world unconventional reservoir evaluation requirements.

What certificate will participants receive after completing the course?

Attendees receive a Certificate of Completion from Institute For Oil & Gas Training upon successfully completing the course requirements. Participants must meet the minimum attendance requirement of 80 percent of the total course duration to qualify for the certificate.

Next: 23 Nov 2026

4 dates available

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