Ellington & Associates, Inc.

ChromaLog™ Introduction

ChromaLog™ analysis is the revolutionary new technique for lithologic formation logging and identification that was developed by Ellington & Associates. For years we observed significant color variation while processing washed well cuttings and core rock samples. These variations were not investigated, because there was no accurate way to define the observed color changes or measure them. The use of color as a descriptive tool for geologic samples has traditionally relied upon qualifying modifiers such as “light” or “dark” to describe the varied range of rock values and hues. Attempts at more systematic methods have relied upon descriptive systems, such as Munsell Soil Color Charts, but without graphical methods to display the data, it was difficult to identify and see patterns.

In 2010, we decided to see if sample color could be captured digitally and standardized, and used as a correlation tool. Proper protocols for data collecting are necessary for precise measurements. Therefore, washed and dried clean cuttings were used to create saturated slurries of pulverized sample and distilled water. The slurries were photographed under tightly controlled conditions. Slurries are the preferred method, because they show more significant color variation compared to other options. With computers, it was possible to digitally capture precise color images and take quantitative spectral measurements. Raw color data, extracted from each sample via software, was used to calculate an average color for a depth or interval. Finally, we have developed advanced techniques and metrics to add the visual punch of the measured color profile to the ChromaLog™.