Methods for seismic fracture parameter estimation and gas filled fracture identification from vertical well log data
US8982666B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 26, 2012 |
| Grant date | Mar 17, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 21, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01V2210/647
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Methods for fracture characterization of unconventional formations are provided. Synthetic seismic fracture responses can be generated based on the derived fracture parameters. The synthetic seismic fracture responses may then be used to derive optimum seismic data acquisition geometry for fracture characterization. These methods of determining the seismic data acquisition geometry are advantageous over conventional methods in that these methods are more reliable and cheaper than existing empirical methods, particularly as applied to fractured unconventional formations. Moreover, these methods allow fracture parameters to be derived from limited but common well log data. Certain embodiments additionally contemplate determining the presence of gas filled fractures. These characterizations and evaluations of unconventional formations are useful for, among other things, determining optimal producing intervals and optimal drilling locations. These methods can eliminate the use of costly image logs and core data. These methods ultimately translate to more efficient seismic imaging and more optimal hydrocarbon production.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.