Understanding Jurassic Salt Tectonics: An Integrated Approach Utilizing Visualization
Doug R. Paul
Understanding the mechanisms of salt deformation are critical in the identification of key prospects in a Jurassic salt basin. Understanding the geometry of the complex salt body significantly reduces risk in such prospects.
A volume of 3D data was depth migrated to improve the delineation of the salt
geometry. The major velocity
changes with depth were interpreted in a state of
the art seismic interpretation package. The results were then analyzed in 3D
velocity
visualization package which permitted refinement of the original model
and validation via ray tracing. This
velocity
model was then reapplied to the
Omega KK post stack depth migration process to create a final depth volume. The
main prospects were interpreted
using
floodfill autopicking technology and
mapped
using
conventional gridding and contouring techniques. The
interpretations were then validated in a visual 3D palinspastic restoration
package. Backstripping through time allowed the
analysis
of the salt deformation
with respect to sediment oading. The validated interpretations were then
analyzed in 3D voxel space to gain a true understanding of the salt geometry and
its effect on the two key prospective reservoirs. Reservoir volumes were
estimated
using
3D sub volume detection. Finally a deviated wellbore was
designed in order to test both prospects. The entire process shows the manner in
which 3D visualization tools may be applied in a multi-disciplinary environment
to better understand the prospect and communicate this understanding among team
members.
AAPG Search and Discover Article #91019©1996 AAPG Convention and Exhibition 19-22 May 1996, San Diego, California