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Density Log Porosity from Bulk Density Formula

Φ=ρmaρbρmaρf\Phi=\frac{\rho_{ma}-\rho_b}{\rho_{ma}-\rho_f}

Density Log Porosity from Bulk Density calculates density-derived porosity for rock properties workflows in petrophysics.

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How engineers use this formula

Use this formula when the listed inputs (rho_b, rho_ma, rho_f) are known and the assumptions behind the cited rock properties relationship match the engineering case being checked.

Assumptions

  • Input values are representative for the well, reservoir, fluid, or equipment case being evaluated.
  • The declared units match the field-unit constants used in the formula.
  • The cited formula applies to the selected petroleum engineering workflow.

Limitations

  • The calculation does not replace a full engineering model or operating procedure.
  • Accuracy depends on the source correlation, assumptions, input quality, and unit consistency.

Common mistakes

  • Mixing unit systems without converting the inputs.
  • Using default example values as field recommendations.
  • Applying the formula outside the source assumptions.

Default example

Using the default inputs, Phi equals 0.181818 fraction.

rho_bg/cm^3

2.35

rho_mag/cm^3

2.65

rho_fg/cm^3

1

Inputs

rho_b

g/cm^3

Formation Bulk Density

rho_ma

g/cm^3

Matrix Density

rho_f

g/cm^3

Average Pore-Fluid Density

Outputs

Phi

fraction

Density-Derived Porosity

rho_b

g/cm^3

Formation Bulk Density

rho_ma

g/cm^3

Matrix Density

rho_f

g/cm^3

Average Pore-Fluid Density

Source and review

reviewed

Bassiouni, Z. 1994. Theory, Measurement, and Interpretation of Well Logs, SPE Textbook Series Vol. 4, Chapter 8, Page 165.

Source

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