--> ABSTRACT: The Use of 3-D Fault Visualization and Reservoir Juxtaposition Analysis in an Exploration Setting, U.S. Gulf of Mexico, by A. F. Driggs; #91021 (2010)

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The Use of 3-D Fault Visualization and Reservoir Juxtaposition Analysis in an Exploration Setting, U.S. Gulf of Mexico

DRIGGS, ALLAN F.

Anadarko Petroleum used 3-D visualization and fault analysis software to examine juxtaposition relationships in fault zones surrounding a salt dome on an exploration block in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. The resulting model displays the complex relationship between faulting, sedimentation, and hydrocarbon trapping and is consistent with amplitude anomaly downdip limits evidenced on seismic data. The identified prospect is situated between two faults which radiate eastward away from the salt body. The trap is formed by the pinching out of reservoirs westward near the salt, juxtaposition sealing at the faults to the north and south, and structural dip to the east. Allan diagrams show that the juxtaposition of reservoir to reservoir constitutes potential leak points along the fault.

Two amplitude anomalies identified on the seismic records occur in the block bounded by the faults. The downdip limit of the anomalies corresponds to the onset of reservoir to reservoir juxtaposition and provides independent confirmation of the conclusions drawn from the Allan diagrams.

Software such as that used by Anadarko gives the explorer an easier and quicker tool to visualize and test interpretations of the complex geometric relationships between faults and affected beds.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91021©1997 AAPG Annual Convention, Dallas, Texas.