• Geophysics and Geophysical Exploration
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• v.15 no.4
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• pp.219-226
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• 2012

This study provides an analysis on results of neutron logging for various borehole environments through numerical simulation based on a Monte Carlo N-Particle (MCNP) code developed and maintained by Los Alamos National Laboratory. MCNP is suitable for the simulation of neutron logging since the algorithm can simulate transport of nuclear particles in three-dimensional geometry. Rather than simulating a specific tool of a particular service company between many commercial neutron tools, we have constructed a generic thermal neutron tool characterizing commercial tools. This study makes calibration chart of the neutron logging tool for materials (e.g., limestone, sandstone and dolomite) with various porosities. Further, we provides correction charts for the generic neutron logging tool to analyze responses of the tool under various borehole conditions by considering brine-filled borehole fluid and void water, and presence of borehole fluid.

• Geophysics and Geophysical Exploration
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• v.15 no.4
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• pp.227-234
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• 2012

In this study, we make simulation of density log using a Monte Carlo N-Particle (MCNP) algorithm to make an analysis on density logging under different borehole environments, since density logging is affected by various borehole conditions like borehole size, density of borehole fluid, thickness and type of casing, and so on. MCNP algorithm has been widely used for simulation of problems of nuclear particle transportation. In the simulation, we consider the specific configuration of a tool (Robertson Geologging Co. Ltd) that Korea institute of geoscience and mineral resources (KIGAM) has used. In order to measure accurate bulk density of a formation, it is essential to make a calibration and correction chart for the tool under considerations. Through numerical simulation, this study makes calibration plot of the density tool in material with several known bulk densities and with boreholes of several different diameters. In order to make correction charts for the density logging, we simulate and analyze measurements of density logging under different borehole conditions by considering borehole size, density of borehole fluid, and presence of casing.

• The Journal of Engineering Geology
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• v.27 no.4
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• pp.429-438
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• 2017

Monte Carlo N-Particle (MCNP) modeling algorithm based on the Monte Carlo method was used to perform the simulation of neutron logging in order to increase the reliability and utilization of neutron logs applied in geological and resource engineering fields. To perform the simulation using MCNP, we used a realistic three-dimensional configuration of neutron sonde and formation. Validation of the modeling was confirmed by comparing the calibration curves of sonde manufacture with those calculated by MCNP modeling. After the validation, lithology effects, pore fluid effects, borehole diameter change, casing effect, and effects of borehole water level were investigated through modeling experiments. Numerical tests indicate that changes in neutron count ratio according to the lithology were quantitatively understood. In case of a borehole with a diameter of 3 inches, ratio of counting rates was higher than expected to be interpreted as borehole fluid has small effects on neutron logging. Effect of casing was also small in general, particular when porosity increases. Since modeling results above the groundwater level showed a tendency opposite to those below the groundwater level, neutron logs can be used to detect groundwater level. The modeling results simulated in this study for various borehole environments are expected to be used for data processing and interpretation of neutron log.