Abstract: 3-D, 3-C Seismic Characterization of Porosity and Lithology at Joffre Field, Alberta, Canada

John F. Arestad, Thomas L. Davis, Robert D. Benson

A 3-D multicomponent (3-D, 3-C) seismic survey was collected over the northeastern limit of Joffre field to detect porosity within two complex Upper Devonian, carbonate reservoirs (Nisku and Leduc). The successful characterization of these reservoirs demonstrates the robust nature and power of 3-D, 3-C seismic technology.

The compressional 3-D seismic data shows several key structural and stratigraphic features along the northeastern updip edge of Joffre field, but does not directly detect porosity within these dolomite reservoirs. The shear wave data images both Nisku and Leduc reservoirs. Combined P-wave and S-wave velocity ratio (Vp/Vs) mapping of the Leduc and Nisku intervals discriminates between porous and tight carbonates. This technology characterizes significant spatial variability of reservoir properties within these reservoirs. By integrating the 3-D, 3-C seismic results with geologic and reservoir production data into a reservoir model, new Nisku field extension and field redevelopment targets are identified and improved reservoir exploitation can be achieved.

The 3-D, 3-C data identify an incised valley in the Cretaceous Belly River section. The shear wave data shows the position of this valley and Vp/Vs ratio mapping outlines the positions of sand bodies within the valley. This technology has direct application for lithologic, reservoir property and reservoir fluid discrimination in many geologic environments.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90952©1996 AAPG Rocky Mountain Section Meeting, Billings, Montana