Reframing Exploration Workflows for Small to Super-Merge 3D Seismic Interpretation

Abstract

Techniques for 3D seismic interpretation by geoscientists are continuously undergoing improvements, and future exploration is anticipated to continue to benefit from high-confidence first pass interpretations utilizing all of the available seismic and well data. Workflows have been developed on a ‘super-merge’ 3D volume to produce attribute-enhanced chronostratigraphic stratal surfaces, allowing interpretation of regional-scale seismic facies and associated seismic geomorphology and tectonostratigraphy. In this example, a semi-supervised machine-based learning workflow has provided rapid turnaround interpretation of the structural framework and chronostratigraphy throughout the entire 3D seismic volume, maximizing the value of the seismic information. This workflow consists of a three-step auto-tracking workflow to build a Relative Geological Time (RGT) geo-model directly from the seismic volume. This enables more time to spend on geological validation and interpretation of the stratal surface seismic geomorphology. Study results have provided the foundation for rapid turnaround well and seismic integrated play fairway maps; a powerful tool for stimulating exploration in mature areas or wildcat acreage assessment. This study focused on Middle and Upper Jurassic carbonates deposited on a broad low angle platform on the Arabian Plate. Interpreting in map view on RGT constrained stratal surfaces with attributes such as, relative acoustic impedance and spectral decomposition, is invaluable for visualization since the stratal surface follows the morphology of the imaged geologic features. The ability to select any stratal surface within the volume and flatten, either on a seismic display or the Relative Geological Time geo-model, is particularly useful to establish the timing of major tectonic episodes and accommodation space fluctuations.