3D mapping of intruding salt bodies in the subsurface of the Gulf of Mexico using 3D seismic data

Abstract

Salt tectonics has important implications for hydrocarbon exploration in salt-bearing basins since salt deformation can directly or indirectly form hydrocarbon traps, influence hydrocarbon migration, and can control deepwater depositional systems. In various basins around the globe, extensive research has been conducted on initiation of salt mobilization, subsequent deformation, and eventual cessation, typically from subsurface two-dimensional (2D) sections. However, 3D seismic data has dominated the petroleum industry for the last 30 years. Despite the plethora of 3D seismic data acquired in salt-bearing basins, there has been hardly any published work displaying the 3D geometries of complex salt bodies. 3D salt mapping in the subsurface can reveal true distribution of salt bodies and their detailed intricacies of geometrical variations, aiding in the overall salt system interpretation. Using a large 3D seismic survey (3,350 km²), this study presents the first 3D salt mapping in the Gulf of Mexico, demonstrating how 3D visualization of the entire Louann Salt system within the Middle Jurassic to present-day stratigraphy can improve interpretation of salt feeder geometries, allochthonous salt canopies, initial salt distribution, and salt weld locations in the study area.