4-D Seismic in Brazil: Experience in Heavy Oil Deep Water Turbidites Reservoirs

Paulo R. Johann
Petroleum Engineering, Petrobras, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The use of time-lapse or 4D seismic technology enables the oil industry to improve their E&P activities related to reservoir management. In addition to updating the 3D geological and flow models, new 4D seismic information helps not only to enhance reservoir characterization, but also to reveal potential exploratory upsides and to monitor field production. This work aims to describe 4D seismic technology experience in Brazil during the last 12 years of studies and applications in Brazilian heavy oil deep water petroleum fields. 4D experiences in Brazil can be divided in three main phases: (1) technical and economic feasibility studies and onshore pilot projects; (2) applied research projects (PRAVAP) - IOR Strategic Research Projects) and (3) offshore heavy oil deepwater projects. The challenge of this heavy oil deepwater 4D seismic survey project was to acquire seismic data over 1,520 km2 in a heavily obstructed oilfield production area. Currently, Marlim Complex produces more than 700,000 bopd from 9 fixed production platforms.

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