Identification of Shale Sweet Spots Using Key Property Estimates from Log Analysis and Geostatistics

Larry Chorn
Halliburton Global Consulting

Finding drilling locations with the best production potential in an extensive shale play holding is key to achieving production profile expectations and good economic metrics. Shale plays have been described as statistical plays. However, it becomes increasingly unacceptable to drill disappointing, underperforming wells as the operator and partners move from the exploration and appraisal life cycle stages into the field development stage.

This study demonstrates a methodology for evaluation of key shale properties and the development of a multidimensional (in property and space) geostatistical representation of shale quality (i.e., sweet spot identification). The analysis applies data collected from a 36-mile2 (92-km2) unit of a maturing play to quantify key properties using detailed logging and core analysis from 16 wells penetrating the shale. The analysis demonstrates the utility of multivariate geostatistical property mapping for high-grading drilling locations in the unit. The relative categorizations of 160-acre quarter-sections within the study area are validated by production histories.

The methodology has applicability in maturing shale plays in North America and in evolving shale play exploration and appraisal efforts around the world.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90179©2013 AAPG Geosciences Technology Workshop, Houston, Texas, August 6-7, 2013