How can you interpret seismic data to identify hydrocarbon reservoirs?

1 Acquire seismic data

The first step is to acquire seismic data from a survey area. This involves using a seismic source, such as a dynamite or an air gun, to generate sound waves that travel into the earth. The sound waves are then reflected and refracted by different rock layers and recorded by receivers, such as geophones or hydrophones, on the surface or in the water. The recorded data is then processed and converted into a series of images or sections that show the variations in the seismic wave velocities and amplitudes.

3 Analyze seismic attributes

The third step is to analyze seismic attributes, which are quantitative or qualitative measures of the seismic data characteristics. Seismic attributes can be derived from the seismic wave velocities, amplitudes, frequencies, phases, or polarities. Seismic attributes can help to detect and characterize the hydrocarbon reservoirs by highlighting their anomalies or differences from the surrounding rocks. For example, some common seismic attributes for hydrocarbon detection are amplitude versus offset (AVO), bright spots, flat spots, dim spots, and tuning effects.

5 Validate and update the interpretation

The final step is to validate and update the interpretation based on the available data and feedback. This involves testing and comparing different hypotheses and scenarios for the hydrocarbon reservoirs and their distribution, size, shape, quality, and connectivity. You can also use seismic inversion, modeling, simulation, and visualization techniques to refine and optimize the interpretation. Moreover, you can update the interpretation as new data becomes available from drilling, testing, or production activities.

By following these steps, you can interpret seismic data to identify hydrocarbon reservoirs and support your exploration and development decisions. Seismic data interpretation is a complex and iterative process that requires creativity, skill, and experience. It also involves collaboration and communication with other disciplines and stakeholders. Seismic data interpretation is a key component of the energy engineering field and an exciting challenge for any geoscientist or engineer.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?