--> Abstract: Virtual Subsurface Geology; Fueling Exploration In Mature Petroleum Provinces, by W. L. Watney, L. C. Gerhard, D. R. Collins, R. A. Olea, J. H. Doveton, W. J. Guy, and G. C. Bohling; #90928 (1999).

Datapages, Inc.Print this page

WATNEY, W. L., L. C. GERHARD, D. R. COLLINS, R. A. OLEA, J. H. DOVETON, W. J. GUY, and G. C. BOHLING
Kansas Geological Survey, 1930 Constant Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66047

Abstract: Virtual Subsurface Geology; Fueling Exploration In Mature Petroleum Provinces

Petroleum resource development is rapidly evolving in response to the global economy. Mature petroleum provinces hold interest for majors as testing grounds for new concepts and techniques. Exploration for remaining resources in these provinces has potential for great rewards, but requires participation of companies with low finding costs, typically small independent operators. Their success hinges on efficient resolution of problems detecting and predicting potential reservoirs. Objectives include play extension, tying shows to trends within a play, identifying hydrocarbon charging routes, and establishing links of stratigraphic anomalies to basement reactivation and trap development. Opportunities exist to reexamine potential bypassed zones. Meeting these objectives requires rapid, consistent, quantitative analysis of the vast untapped subsurface information in wireline logs. Capabilities for efficient processing and interpretation of data from large numbers of wells (with an ability to integrate results with data from other technologies, such as 2-D or 3-D seismic) must be a reality for cost effective exploration in mature petroleum provinces. The Kansas Virtual Geology program is built around development of a statewide wireline log database, digital type-logs for genetic and traditional stratigraphy, and analytical software systems. The software systems provide high-resolution stratigraphic correlation; classify pays, shows, pore types, and fluid anomalies; utilize search engines to consistently identify these classes; and employ color imaging for enhanced visual tracking and characterization. Interpreted results establish consistent geologic relationships; identify trends and associations for improved prediction; and reduce costs via lower prospect risks.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90928©1999 AAPG Annual Convention, San Antonio, Texas