Petrophysics (from the Greek petra, "rock" and physis, "nature") is the study of physical and chemical rock properties.

A key aspect of petrophysics is measuring and evaluating these rock properties by acquiring in-situ downhole measurements – in which a string of measurement tools are inserted in the borehole and desired formation physical properties measured.

Major applications of petrophysics in the mineral industry would be to aid geoscientists in understanding the rock properties of the sub-surface geology or ore bodies.

 

Key areas in petrophysical studies include:

• Petrophysical properties' multiscale distributions

• Lithological description of rock mineralogy and formational processes

• Elemental concentrations including radioelements

• Metamorphic processes and alteration

• Mechanical properties predicting temporal behaviour

• Ore presence and concentrations

• Porosity, permeability and saturation