Matching to Geological Model Cuts Risk

In this case study from a fractured, locally karstified, and hydrothermally leached carbonate platform we show how proper selection of prognostic seismic attributes significantly rejuvenates a mature play by reducing drilling risk. To optimize rewards from applied subsurface geophysical interpretation, it proves beneficial to place seismic attributes into their proper regional geological context. The complex interplay between physical, geometric, and elastic formation parameters may assist exploration/exploitation efforts in advance by high-grading attribute selection during prospecting. The field-tested exploration strategy presented here encapsulates all pertinent play characteristics into a viable geological model within which each dominant reservoir property is expressed as a risk parameter that in turn can be resolved by a seismic attribute. Seismic attribute analysis permits illumination of discrete reservoir properties, specifically: 1.) fracturing, 2.) lithology (dolomitization), and, 3.) porosity.