Smart Processing and Analysis of Image Log Data: A Digital Approach for a Robust Facies Modelling in Heterogeneous Carbonate Reservoirs

Abstract

This paper discusses the use of a novel data-driven method for automated facies classification and characterization of carbonate reservoirs. The approach makes an extensive use of wireline and while drilling electrical borehole image logs and provides a direct and fast recognition of the main geological features at multi-scale level, together with secondary porosity estimation. This embodies an unbiased and valuable key-driver for rock typing, dynamic behavior understanding and reservoir modeling purposes in these puzzling scenarios. The implemented methodology takes advantage of a non-conventional approach to the analysis and interpretation of image logs, based upon image processing and automatic classification techniques applied in a structural and petrophysical framework. In particular, the Multi-Resolution Graph-based Clustering (MRGC) algorithm that is able to automatically shed light on the significant patterns hidden in a given image log dataset. This allows the system to perform an objective multi-well analysis within a time-efficient template. A further characterization of the facies can be established by means of the Watershed Transform (WT) approach, based on digital image segmentation processes and which is mainly aimed at quantitative porosity partition (primary and secondary). The added value from this data-driven image log analysis is demonstrated through selected case studies coming from vertical and sub-horizontal wells in carbonate reservoirs characterized by high heterogeneity. First, the MRGC has been carried out in order to obtain an alternative log-facies classification with an inherent textural meaning. Next, the WT-based algorithm provided a robust quantification of the secondary porosity contribution to total porosity, in terms of connected vugs, isolated vugs, fractures and matrix contribution rates. Finally, image log-facies classification and quantitative porosity partition have been integrated with production logs and pressure transient analyses to reconcile the obtained carbonate rock types with the effective fluid flows and the associated dynamic behavior at well scale. The presented novel methodology is deemed able to perform an automatic, objective and advanced interpretation of field-scale image log datasets, avoiding time-consuming conventional processes and inefficient standard analyses when the number of wells to be handled is large and/or in harsh circumstances. Moreover, secondary porosity can be proficiently identified, evaluated and also characterized from the dynamic standpoint, hence representing a valuable information for any 3D reservoir models.