Predictive isopach mapping of gas sands from seismic impedance: modeled and empirical cases from Ship Shoal Block 134 field

Journal Article · Thu Oct 01 00:00:00 EDT 1987 · AAPG Bull.; (United States)

OSTI ID:7180920

Woock, R D; Kin, A R

Gulf of Mexico Miocene through Holocene stratigraphy exhibits general physical properties conducive to detailed geophysical investigation. Selected seismic attributes may be used directly to produce net gas sand thickness. Synthetic examples demonstrate the relationship between the energy of a sand-top reflected wavelet and the associated gas pay. Reflected seismic energy displayed as acoustic impedance sections are used to produce pseudo net pay isopach maps, which are used to predict gas sand thickness, gas distribution, and gas reserves. The techniques and concepts used in this form of geologic analysis are demonstrated in the rediscovery and development of the Ship Shoal Block 134 gas field of offshore Louisiana. Using the properties of amplitude, acoustic impedance, and reflected energy to produce net pay isopach maps has led to 95% successful prediction of gas reserves within this study area and other areas. The thickness of gas sands estimated by impedance methods is substantially less than the accepted minimum thickness interpretable from conventional seismic sections. In this case study, gas sand thicknesses ranging from 1.5 m to 10 m have been reliably mapped. 14 figures.

• Research Organization: Odeco Oil and Gas Co., New Orleans, LA
• OSTI ID: 7180920
• Journal Information: AAPG Bull.; (United States), Vol. 71:10
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

03 NATURAL GAS
GULF OF MEXICO
NATURAL GAS DEPOSITS
EXPLORATION
RESERVOIR ROCK
SANDSTONES
SEISMIC SURVEYS
TERTIARY PERIOD
ATLANTIC OCEAN
CARIBBEAN SEA
CENOZOIC ERA
GEOLOGIC AGES
GEOLOGIC DEPOSITS
GEOPHYSICAL SURVEYS
MINERAL RESOURCES
RESOURCES
ROCKS
SEAS
SEDIMENTARY ROCKS
SURFACE WATERS
SURVEYS
030200* - Natural Gas- Reserves
Geology
& Exploration