Conclusions

 

The Marcellus shale shows little primary porosity. Calcite and pyrite mineralization often seal what porosity did exist, creating poor fluid flow conditions but sometimes beautiful crystal overgrowths.

 

Calcite Overgrowth Resulting in Flower Structure (Colorized SEM Image, Calcite-Blue)

 

Deformation related porosity is important for fluid flow within the Marcellus shale. Fractures are pervasive. Open fractures in the subsurface can act as pathways for fluid flow making their study important to understading how fluids behave in the Marcellus shale. In addition, mineralized fractures show increased permeability relative to the country rock. The elevated porosity and microcrack enhanced permeability found in mineralized fractures in veins make it impossible to dismiss these features as closed. In addition, the comparativly large calcite grains may accommodate fluid flow along grain boundaries.

 

Edge of Calcite Vein (Vein Colored Blue)

 

 

 

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