--> Abstract: 3D Structural and Stratigraphic Frameworks using Acoustic Impedance, Amplitude and EDGE-Enhanced Seismic Volumes, by K. D. Kelsch, T. L. Heidrick, A. Rauf, and P. T. Hazairin; #90935 (1998).

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Abstract: 3D Structural and Stratigraphic Frameworks using Acoustic Impedance, Amplitude and EDGE-Enhanced Seismic Volumes

KELSCH, K. D., T. L. HEIDRICK, A. RAUF, and HAZAIRIN, PT Caltex Pacific, Indonesia

Chevron's Edge Detection of Geologic Elements (EDGE) tool produces enhanced geologic images that increase interpretation confidence, accuracy, and reduce interpretation cycle time. EDGE processing calculates differences between amplitudes to enhance both structural and stratigraphic discontinuities. Streamlined 3D volume interpretation processes result in constrained structural and stratigraphic frameworks for reservoir characterization studies and trap development.

Former structural and stratigraphic frameworks were developed using exaggerated 2D time inlines and crosslines and a single 3D volume attribute. This methodology leads to incorrectly picked surfaces, faults and channels, extends reservoir sands laterally beyond their actual limit, and produces inadequate structural models of deep complex trap geometries. Hardware/software advances permit simultaneous use of 3D acoustic impedance, amplitude and EDGE volumes.

Caltex's work process for building structural and stratigraphic frameworks employ 3D seismic attribute data within a volume interpretational system. Elements are interpreted using two 3D attribute volumes. Fault picking is conducted at a 1:1 scale along inline/crossline views from an amplitude volume and high resolution EDGE timeslices. Faults are catalogued by attribute and converted to triangulated mesh surfaces prior to sequential voxel-picking of horizons, channels, clinoforms and fluid contacts. Stratigraphic interpretation is completed using an amplitude volume interpolated and trimmed to a specific area or structural compartment. Unlike the EDGE volume, acoustic impedance volumes enhance lateral discontinuities within pay intervals and guides the interpreter during 3D picking of stratigraphic eventsO This work process is repeated for each structural compartment until a 3D earth model is built for reservoir characterization.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90935©1998 AAPG Pacific Section Meeting, Ventura, California