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An Integrated Approach to 
Basin
Analysis
By
Sevgi Tigrek1, F. Beekman2, E.C. Slob3, S.A.P.L. Cloetingh2, J.T. Fokkema3
(1) Delft University of Technology_Free University,Amsterdam(Vrije Universiteit), Delft, Netherlands (2) Free University, Amsterdam (Vrije Universiteit), Amsterdam, Netherlands (3) Delft University of Technology, Netherlands
We present a methodology and the initial results of its application in the
characterization of the processes involved in the development of sedimentary
basins. The methodology combines the advanced seismic data analysis techniques
and numerical basin modelling tools to resolve the basin (de)formation
processes. The basin target horizon is represented in terms of its seismic
properties, including reflection and transmission coefficients. The information
on seismic properties is integrated with the information on the distribution of
geomechanical parameters. The careful analysis of the integrated information
should result in the quantification of the relation between the stress
distribution within a basin and the seismic response.
The methodology consists of three phases. The first phase involves the
conventional seismic data interpretation. In this research the data was gathered
from the sedimentary basins of extensional tectonic settings and passive
continental margins. The basins of the Norwegian Continental Margin and the
North Sea were selected because of intensive hydrocarbon exploration and
exploitation in these regions. After the conventional seismic data
interpretation, some portions of the basin
and the adjoining areas were
investigated in detail. The selected portions were simplified and synthetic
geological sections were constructed. The second phase involves the seismic
modelling of the constructed cross-sections by comparing various ray tracing and
finite difference modelling techniques. Both acoustic and elastic wave modelling
were included. The synthetic seismic data were analysed by considering the
established relationships between the seismic properties and the material
parameters. The stress field and the deformations were predicted on the modelled
cross-sections by using finite element modelling techniques. Travel-time and
amplitude information from seismic modelling were used to improve the
quantification of stress field-seismic response relation.