--> ABSTRACT: Application of Rock Physics and Petrophysics to 3-D Reservoir Characterization, by D. Moos, J. Harris, and J. Dvorkin; #91021 (2010)

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Application of Rock Physics and Petrophysics to 3-D Reservoir Characterization 

MOOS, DANIEL, JERRY HARRIS, and JACK DVORKIN

Recent advances in the understanding of relationships between seismic observables (e.g., P- and S- wave velocities and impedance) and reservoir characteristics (fluid properties, porosity, and permeability) enable us to more fully exploit data from well logs and seismic experiments. Furthermore, field observations often reveal difficulties with existing models and measurements, leading to new discoveries. We present three studies which illustrate these points. In the first study, monopole and dipole sonic logs recorded in old, cased wells were used to calculate porosity and to discriminate between water-flooded and potentially productive intervals in a Miocene turbiditic reservoir in the Los Angeles Basin, CA. When combined with improved reservoir models, this type of data can significantly enhance the performance of older, "marginal" fields. In the second study, time-lapse seismic imaging provided velocity and impedance data for estimating in situ changes in reservoir properties (e.g., fluids and pressure) accompanying C02-flooding of a carbonate reservoir in West Texas. In this case velocity changes were larger than expected based on previous models, and additional laboratory studies were necessary to explain the field results. Studies such as this demonstrate that geophysical monitoring when used in combination with rock physics provides a powerful methodology for reservoir description and improved reservoir management. In the third study, laboratory-determined relationships between porosity, velocity, and permeability in clastic rocks resulted in more precise determination of permeability from well logs. Application of these relationships may eventually allow us to extend the interpretation to seismic data using attributes such as impedance and velocity. 

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91021©1997 AAPG Annual Convention, Dallas, Texas.