The enrichment of organic matter in source rocks is a topic of concern and studying the relation between organic matter and specific surface is important to recognizing the enrichment mechanism of organic matter.Specific surface area of argillaceous source rocks is complex in components and is controlled by various factors such as pore size

components

mineral constituents

inner surface and external surface of clay minerals.Each measuring method for specific surface area has its own limitations.For example

mercury porosimetry is suitable for measuring mesopores and macropores

nitrogen adsorption method is the best in measuring micropores and external surface

and EGME method is fit for measuring micropores and inner surface.Therefore

it is crucial to choose the right method to detect the specific surface area of argillaceous source rocks.The occurrence modes are different for different organic matters

especially the soluble organic matter

which is absorbed on the external surface of minerals by physical adsorption

or enters into the inner surface of minerals via chemical adsorption.All of these result in the variations and differences of the correlation between organic matter and specific surface.Consequently

in addition to the features of minerals and organic matter's occurrence

it should be paid attention to find the suitable method to determine the specific surface area in argillaceous source rocks.