The status of core analysis

This issue covers new insights in core analysis, consisting in a selection of papers presented during the 1996 Annual Symposium of the Society of Core Analysts, SCA, in Montpellier, France. The term `core analysisʹ is considered by core analysts to cover any kind of work, measurement or interpretation related to the core which can improve hydrocarbon exploration or production. However it may appear sometimes as a narrow and restricted niche topic when compared to other exploration–production disciplines. Therefore, as an introduction for this special issue, I would like to recall the actual status of core analysis and to show how it addresses general concerns from the hydrocarbon business and technology sides.