Methods and means for casing, perforation and sand-screen evaluation using backscattered x-ray radiation in a wellbore environment

Abstract

An x-ray-based cased wellbore environment imaging tool is provided, the tool including at least an x-ray source; a radiation shield to define the output form of the produced x-rays; a direction controllable two-dimensional per-pixel collimated imaging detector array; sonde-dependent electronics; and a plurality of tool logic electronics and PSUs. A method of using an x-ray-based cased wellbore environment imaging tool to monitor and determine the integrity of materials within wellbore environments is also provided, the method including at least: producing x-rays in a shaped output; measuring the intensity of backscatter x-rays returning from materials surrounding the wellbore; controlling two-dimensional per-pixel collimated imaging detector arrays; and converting image data from said detectors into consolidated images of the wellbore materials.