Development of a 3-D validated structural model using an integrated data set: A case study from PNG
- CogniSeis Development, West Sussex (United Kingdom)
- ERA MapTec, Dublin (Ireland)
A complete data set incorporating surface geology and structure lineament maps from synthetic aperture radar (SAR), topography, field mapping and cross-section data, including seismic profiles and well logs, has been integrated to produce a structural model through time from an exploration area in PNG. Although restoration and forward modeling techniques enabled the validation of individual cross sections, the use of along-strike projection, 3-D visualization, and surface control illuminated inconsistencies that provided additional constraints in validating the 3-D structural model. This geological model was further validated geophysically by ray-trace modeling. The ability to restore and forward model complex structures, as well as visualizing an entire 3-D data set, is now being made possible through the development of new interactive computer technology. Interpretation of SAR imagery combined with field mapping and seismic interpretation followed by 3-D restoration and balancing has enabled confidence to be placed on the temporal and spatial distribution of structural events and the likely geometries of potential traps during possible periods of hydrocarbon migration. Such a process, which is relatively fast and accurate, significantly reduces the risk involved in exploring frontier regions, where structural complexity is one of the major factors in determining hydrocarbon prospectivity.
- OSTI ID:
- 6747766
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-940803-; CODEN: AABUD2
- Journal Information:
- AAPG Bulletin (American Association of Petroleum Geologists); (United States), Vol. 78:7; Conference: American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) international conference and exhibition, Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), 21-24 Aug 1994; ISSN 0149-1423
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
03 NATURAL GAS
GEOLOGIC MODELS
VALIDATION
NATURAL GAS DEPOSITS
EXPLORATION
PETROLEUM DEPOSITS
THREE-DIMENSIONAL CALCULATIONS
GEOLOGIC DEPOSITS
MINERAL RESOURCES
RESOURCES
TESTING
020200* - Petroleum- Reserves
Geology
& Exploration
030200 - Natural Gas- Reserves
Geology
& Exploration