Cojan, Isabelle1, Olivier Fouche1, Simon Lopez1,
Jacques Rivoirard1
(1) Ecole des Mines de Paris, Fontainebleau, France
ABSTRACT: Representation of Geological Heterogeneities by a Forward and Stochastic Modelling of Meandering Fluvial System
Fluvial systems are characterized by sedimentary bodies of varied sizes, the
distribution of which is linked to the stream evolution. The combined approach of
process-based and stochastic modelling of fluvial meandering systems at the scale of oil
reservoir allows to reproduce realistically geological heterogeneities at different time
and spatial scales. The model is controlled by a few parameters which reflect the channel
morphology and the flow characteristics. It allows the accumulation of sediments in the
channel and in the floodplain by the interaction of lateral accretion and aggradation of
the channel as well as by aggradation of the floodplain via overbank floods, crevasse
splays and avulsions. Rules of deposition and evolution are based on hydraulics and
experimental observations.
The heterogeneities observed in geological setting are represented through the facies
distribution, which is both controlled by autocyclic evolution and external forcing.
Forward process-based modelling produces very realistic realizations of the autocyclic
evolution. Point bar facies, ox-bow lake and crevasse-splay lobe deposits are located in
relation to channel migration, overbank alluvium are distributed on the floodplain with
respect to channel location and floodplain topography. Heterogeneities linked to external
forcing are taken care of via the stochastic component. Facies distribution is honoured by
the use of vertical proportion curves, while some stochastic parameters allow deposition
of specific facies where expected from data or observations. Several realizations of
distinct fluvial architectures are produced quickly using a limited number of parameters.
AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90026©2004 AAPG Annual Meeting, Dallas, Texas, April 18-21, 2004.