--> Abstract: Structuring Fault Outcrop Data for Numerical Modeling Purposes, by Henning Nøttveit, Jan Tveranger, Magne Espedal, Eivind Bastesen, and Alvar Braathen; #90072 (2007)

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Structuring Fault Outcrop Data for Numerical Modeling Purposes

Henning Nøttveit1, Jan Tveranger1, Magne Espedal1, Eivind Bastesen1, and Alvar Braathen2
1Center for Intergrated Petroleum Research (CIPR), University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
2University Centre in Svalbard, Longyearbyen, Norway

Faulting is, next to sedimentary facies variations, the main factor introducing heterogeneities in hydrocarbon reservoirs. In order to better understand the effect faults exert on fluid flow, a sound understanding of 3D fault architecture and properties is primarily needed. Numerical simulation then provides a means for quantifying the effect of the various fault architectures. This work focuses on how multi-scale outcrop data can best be structured in order to facilitate implementation in numerical models (3D). A basis for the method is a systematical differentiation between high-strain zones and low-strain zones in a progressively refined window of observation. Following this process, the shear zones of comparable strain and size are lumped together to define networks. This way, when all the data of interest is processed, the fault is organized in terms of a nested set of high-strain zone networks. This ordering of the fault structures is favorable for numerical modeling purposes. The physical problem turns into a nested series of sub-problems, which can each be handled using an optimized modeling strategy. Furthermore, the problems of choosing appropriate boundary conditions and model dimensions, in order to validate the upscaling steps, are partially resolved. The method is demonstrated using outcrop data from a well exposed fault; the Doumena Fault Zone in Greece. Its applicability to general problems is also discussed.

 

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90072 © 2007 AAPG and AAPG European Region Conference, Athens, Greece