At the CoRE of Mines Research

In terms of research at Mines, the Chevron Center of Research Excellence (CoRE) is arguably one of the most prized institutions. Located in the basement of Berthoud Hall, CoRE was formed in 2003 as a long-term agreement between Chevron’s Energy Technology Company and CSM, meant to bring together experts in petroleum and geological engineering. As it currently stands, this goal is being met by the amazing staff at this facility. Most of the geologically inclined faculty on campus have nothing but respect and admiration for CoRE and the work they are performing.

The abstract posters on the walls near the Center display the sheer volume of research that has been done and is currently being pursued. On top of this vast amount of knowledge, the CoRE functions all around the world as most of its members are out across the globe. In fact, a main area of focus is the Ainsa Basin in the Spanish Pyrenees, where they are researching trends of basin-fill succession. Closer to home, CoRE is studying the Uinta Basin in Utah and its use of hydrocarbon fuels. It is likely in the future, even more places throughout the world of hydrocarbons will come under the scrutiny of the CoRE.

Not all of the focus of the institution is directed at the world’s geology. There is an ambitious effort to begin a knowledge transfer to better both Chevron and CSM. More recently these endeavors have increased and a better understanding of geological interpretations is being achieved. By increasing this connection, CoRE looks to inspire other partnerships to increase the world’s knowledge of oil and gas-based processes.

Along with this transfer of knowledge and skills, the center also acts as a forefront in the world of reservoir modeling, which is important for the exploration, drilling, and efficient extraction of hydrocarbon resources.

The primary team of the CoRE center is a combination of researchers both from CSM and industry professionals and is bolstered by a dedicated group of students. With focuses on stratigraphy, sedimentary studies, and reservoir modeling, the center will likely be a powerhouse and an asset to the Mines community for many years to come.

The impressive element of research at Mines is the desire for the school and industry to work together. Just recently the school adopted a policy that allowed certain researchers the ability to serve as a bridge between Mines and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Another facet of combined research is the possible joint venture into the world of rare-earth element mining and recycling as these are becoming more and more crucial to modern technology such as computers. Even now, more research grants are being given to Mines for such ventures as the CoRE and the NREL connection. Hopefully with more recognition we will be able to form more bonds. It is through combinations like this that Mines will become even more of a beacon in the world of resource recovery and exploration.