From Inversion Products to Reservoir Properties

Kemper, Michel ¹
(1)Technical, Ikon Science, Perth, WA, Australia.

This paper is a quick guide to modern inversion techniques and its uses. The author categorizes inverted data, and introduces 6 reservoir characterization methods.

Since 1978 the rules applied to the booking of reserves have been very strict and have not kept up with modern oil exploration and development techniques including inversion. For some time the industry has been requesting a change. Recently this has occurred with the introduction of PUD (proved undeveloped) class where reservoir continuity can be shown making the case using “reliable techniques.” This could include seismic inversion. The new category has been met with skepticism because of perceived uncertainty believed to be inherent in the technologies used to estimate these reserves.

These days most seismic data is of a quality that allows us, to gain an accurate understanding of the rock properties of the subsurface and ultimately the volumes of hydrocarbons in place that reduce uncertainty and make PUD reliable. However it is key that interpreters understand which inversions are available and when they can be run. The first part of the paper categorises inverted data (determinsistic/stochastic, elastic/petroelastic) and provides insights on considerations and correct practice.

The second part introduces reservoir characterisation methods. Seismic surveys are particularly sensitive in terms of rock differences and the consideration to and understanding of reservoir characterisation is becoming increasingly more important and valuable.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90135©2011 AAPG International Conference and Exhibition, Milan, Italy, 23-26 October 2011.