Module Details

The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title Quantitative Seismic Interpretation of Reservoirs
Code ENVS601
Coordinator Dr A Lamur
Earth, Ocean and Ecological Sciences
A.Lamur@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2020-21 Level 7 FHEQ First Semester 15

Aims

To provide an overview of reflection seismic processing techniques as applied in the hydrocarbon industry, with focuson underlying concepts and their limitations, appreciating uncertainties and estimating physical rock properties of the reservoir.

To provide an understanding of the underlying assumptions and the need to preserve amplitude information in the processing sequence as well as extracting shear wave velocities.

To provide, with case studies, an introduction to characterise reservoirs with seismic data and associated problems.


Learning Outcomes

(LO1) To apply signal processing techniques to problems in reflection seismology

(LO2) To evaluate the uncertainties in processing seismic sections with emphasis on the preservation of ‘true’ amplitudes in the recorded signals.

(LO3) To provide an understanding of rock physical models and their use in hydrocarbon systems. What observables do we need?

(LO4) To develop an appreciation of uncertainty and statistical approaches to estimating lithology and fluid/gas content in reservoirs from seismic data.

(LO5) To provide an ability to carry out a seismic processing sequence using an industry standard software package (CLARITAS).

(S1) Problem solving (including numeracy) and communication using information from a number of sources.

(S2) Clear presentation of ideas and information in a systematic manner.


Syllabus

 

Paired lecture and practical sessions will cover the following topics:

Signal Processing techniques: Sampling Theorem, Aliasing, Convolutional Model, Spectrum, De-convolution, Auto- and Cross-correlation, Filters, Wavelets, Phase.

Standard seismic processing techniques: Acquisition, Signal-Noise-Ratio, Multiples, Resolution-Fresnell zone, filtering, velocity analysis, Normal move-out, stacking, multiple suppression, water reverberations, migration, 3D methods.

Rock Physics: link between properties and sedimentary microstructure, depth trends, lithofacies and depositional environments, different descriptive models.

Statistical classification: How to quantify uncertainty, information entropy, statistical properties, Monte Carlo simulations.

Preserving true amplitude – amplitude versus offset AVO analysis: quantitative seismic amplitude interpretation, description of AVO, AVO analysis, Impedance inversion, forward modeling.

Case studies: Selec ted cases mainly from the North Sea, but will be constantly updated to reflect new developments.

Workshops will use MATLAB and CLARITAS to introduce the seismic processing workflow and will be run as open question and answer sessions:

Geometry, Filtering, De-convolution

NMO, Stacking and static corrections

Velocity analysis, refined statics, stacking

Migration and preparation for AV O


Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching Method 1 - Lectures
Description: Each lecture is paired with a practical session
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Method 2 - Laboratory Work
Description: Each laboratory session is pared with lectures.
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Method 3 - workshops
Description: Four 3-hours workshops on the CLARITAS software package which will be run as question and answer session to build confidence in using the software package. 4 hours dedicated to writing up the summative assessment
Attendance Recorded: Yes


Teaching Schedule

  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 20

    10

  16

46
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 104
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment

EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Exam There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :Semester 1  180 minutes.    60       
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Coursework There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :Semester 1  2,000 words    40       

Recommended Texts

Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.