Case Study of Successful Identification of Hydrocarbon Reservoirs by Microtremor Analysis (HyMAS)
Holzner, Reto1, Patrik Eschle1, Hannes Zurcher1, René Graf2, Stefan Dangel3, Peter F. Meier3 (1) Spectraseis Technologie AG, Zurich, Switzerland (2) Proseis AG, Zurich, Switzerland (3) University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
Hydrocarbon Microtremor Analysis (HyMAS) is
an innovative passive technology identifying the hydrocarbon content of
geological structures by analyzing low frequency seismic signals. Hydrocarbon
indicating information is extracted from spectral modifications of naturally
occurring seismic background noise
waves in the 0.01 – 10 Hz range passing
through hydrocarbon bearing porous structures. The mechanism underlying HyMAS technology can be summarized as “selective absorption
and hydrocarbon induced amplification of low frequency seismic background
noise
”. As a direct hydrocarbon indicator, HyMAS is
an ideal complement to 2D and 3D seismic structural imaging technologies. It
allows fast and environmentally safe screening of prospects as well as cost
and time saving optimization of an operator’s investment in 3D acquisition and
optimized well placement during exploration, appraisal and production. Its
relevance has been proven at more than 15 sites worldwide [S. Dangel et al “Phenomenology of tremor-like signals observed
over hydrocarbon reservoirs” J.Volcan.Geotherm.Res.Vol128(2003)135-158).
During a recent onshore commercial trial in
linear
relationship between measured
signals and the total hydrocarbon layer thickness was established.