Print this pageVolume-Based Characterization of a Heterogeneous Carbonate Reservoir, Lower Cretaceous, Abu Dhabi
Lyndon A. Yose1, Amy S. Ruf2, Christian J. Strohmenger3, James S. Schuelke2,
Linda W. Corwin4, Andrew Gombos2, Imelda G. Johnson4, Ismail Al-Hosani3, Shamsa S. Al-Maskary3,
Gerard Bloch3, and Yousef Al-Mahairi3
1 ExxonMobil Qatar, Inc, oha, Qatar
2 ExxonMobil Upstream Research, Houston, TX
3 Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Operations (ADCO), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
4 ExxonMobil Exploration Company, Houston, TX
High-effort three-dimensional (3D) seismic data collected by the Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Operations are some of the highest quality data ever collected over a carbonate field. These data provide the opportunity to test the limits of high-end seismic technologies in carbonates and to demonstrate the value of seismic for integrated carbonate reservoir characterization. Seismic data were integrated with other subsurface data to develop a new, sequence stratigraphic based reservoir framework. The Lower Cretaceous (Aptian) reservoir records a large-scale transgressive-regressive depositional cycle that is divided into six depositional sequences. Reservoir architecture and quality vary predictably within the sequence framework and correspond closely to variations in seismic properties. Sequence-stratigraphic surfaces define the 3D distribution of flow barriers and flow units within the reservoir and are used to guide framework and rock property distributions in 3D reservoir models.
Quantitative seismic information on reservoir architecture and porosity variations provides a new understanding of reservoir heterogeneity and the underlying geologic controls. Multi-attribute volume interpretation and co-rendering techniques help to visualize geologic and reservoir variations and provide a volume-based framework for reservoir evaluation. Together, the sequence-based reservoir framework and 3D seismic data provide an integrated platform for addressing a range of production and performance issues. Applications of these results include: 1) 3D seismic visualization as a tool for optimizing well placement, identifying by-passed reservoirs and evaluating reservoir connectivity, 2) integration of quantitative, volume-based seismic information into reservoir models, 3) maximizing recovery through full integration of all subsurface data, and 4) enhanced communication among geoscientists and engineers leading to improved reservoir management practices.