3D Architecture Modeling of a Turbidite Reservoir Using High-Resolution Seismic Data with Sparse Well Control, Deepwater Gulf of Mexico

Mark A. Chapin, Gottfried T. Tiller, Michael J. Mahaffie

3D reservoir architecture modeling enhances reservoir description and understanding by allowing alternative geologic, rock property, and development models to be easily visualized and tested. Architecture models were constructed for turbidite sands of the "E" reservoir, Prospect Mars, Mississippi Canyon 807, Gulf of Mexico. The E sand reservoir area covers approximately 3000 acres and is at a depth of approximately 11,500 feet in 3100 feet of water. Three well penetrations showed a vertical sequence comprising two 20-30 foot-thick sandbodies separated by a 25 foot-thick mudstone layer. Preliminary seismic mapping of gross sandbody geometries showed three separate stratigraphic "shingles", interpreted as turbidite sand lobes. However, more complex reservoir compartmentaliz tion was indicated by RFT pressure measurements and geochemical analysis of RFT oil samples. Additional stratigraphic shingles and several small faults were identified through detailed mapping of low-noise, enhanced-resolution 3D seismic data. The seismic mapping allowed construction of several 3D architecture scenarios, even though well control was sparse. Scenarios of shingle geometry and rock property distribution were compared to seismic geometry and attributes through synthetic seismic modeling. A proprietary architecture modeling program allows simultaneous 2D and 3D displays of modeled architectures, rock properties and seismic data, enhancing reservoir visualization. This modeling project illustrates how high-quality seismic data and architecture models can be combined in a pre-d velopment phase of a prospect, in order to optimize development scenarios.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91020©1995 AAPG Annual Convention, Houston, Texas, May 5-8, 1995