Multiphase monitoring by annihilation radiation coincidence mode.

A multiphase monitoring system employing nuclear techniques is reported, which is aimed to provide a rapid - decision tool in oilfield applications. Liquid phase time variation is monitored employing two large volume BaF2 detectors. The radioisotope source of 22Na is a positron emitter, therefore two antiparallel gammas are produced per decay, and phase flow in pipes is related to the count rate of gamma pulses in coincidence providing information on transient liquid phase during transport. Oil, gas, water fraction measurements were performed at a specialized test station assembled in our laboratory to model a wide range of field operating conditions. The time dependence of the mixed substances is monitored with the two most relevant hydrodynamic parameters, the density (type of the fluid) and the flow rate, in a LabView® environment. Performance of the monitoring system; its limitations and the possibility for further improvements are also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]