Genesis of Coalbed Methane and Its Storage and Seepage Space in Baode Block, Eastern Ordos Basin

Abstract

The Baode block on the eastern margin of the Ordos Basin is a key area for the development of low-rank coalbed methane (CBM) in China. In order to find out the genesis of CBM and its storage and seepage space in Baode block, the isotopic testing of gas samples was carried out to reveal the origin of CH4 and CO2, as well, mercury intrusion porosimetry, low temperature nitrogen adsorption, and X-ray CT tests were performed to characterize the pores and fractures in No. 4 + 5 and No. 8 + 9 coal seams. The results showed that the average volume fraction of CH4, N2, and CO2 is 88.31%, 4.73%, and 6.36%, respectively. No. 4 + 5 and No. 8 + 9 coal seams both have biogenic gas and thermogenic methane. Meanwhile, No. 4 + 5 and No. 8 + 9 coal seams both contain CO2 generated by coal pyrolysis, which belongs to organic genetic gas, while shallow CO2 is greatly affected by the action of microorganisms and belongs to biogenic gas. The average proportion of micropores, transition pores, mesopores, and macropores is 56.61%, 28.22%, 5.10%, and 10.07%, respectively. Samples collected from No. 4 + 5 coal seams have developed more sorption pores. Meanwhile, samples collected from No. 8 + 9 coal seams exhibited a relatively low degree of hysteresis (Hg retention), suggesting good pore connectivity and relatively high seepage ability, which is conducive to gas migration. The connected porosity of coal samples varies greatly, mainly depending on the relative mineral content and the proportion of connected pores.