Seismic Characterization of Mound Reservoirs Using Iterative Modeling Procedure

B. J. Rafison, Charles J. Stuart

A seismic stratigraphic analysis based on seismic attribute and stratigraphic modeling techniques was done on Paleocene submarine fan mounds in two North Sea blocks. The principal objective of these studies was to develop new interpretation concepts for resolving and mapping sandstone buildups and channel fills. Improved resolution and interpretation of these features should contribute to development of Paleocene exploration plays and reservoir characterization in these blocks.

The study was carried out in two phases. (1) In the first phase, we examined variations in seismic response (attributes) of seismic data from five lines in the area. Each attribute contributed in some way to resolution of Paleocene units and provided more robust interpretation of the data. During this process, we used manipulated and enhanced seismic data to extract more information from a given data set. (2) In the second phase, synthetic seismograms were generated from stratigraphic models (using an iterative process) based on well control in the North Sea blocks. The iterative modeling evolved as a result of detailed integration of geologic and seismic data, in which geological concepts were tested one at a time by comparing synthetic seismograms with field traces. Models were cons ructed to analyze internal and external reflection characteristics, continuity of reflections, and geometry of fan mounds in those blocks.

The results of this modeling revealed new relationships about Paleocene deep water deposits in the North Sea.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91024©1989 AAPG Pacific Section, May 10-12, 1989, Palm Springs, California.