3D finite element modeling of marine controlled-source electromagnetic fields using locally refined unstructured meshes

Abstract

We present a 3D forward modeling algorithm of marine controlled-source electromagnetic (CSEM) fields using finite element method based on unstructured meshes. As the unstructured mesh is incorporated, the algorithm can easily accommodate complex structures, such as dipping interfaces and rough topography. Secondary coupled-potential formulation of Maxwell's equations allows to avoid the singularities introduced by the sources. The primary electromagnetic fields excited by electric dipole source in layered isotropic media are derived from the semi-analytical formulas based on Schelkunoff potentials. To improve the accuracy and efficiency of the algorithm, we propose an effective local mesh refinement strategy, where the elements near the receiver locations and in the abnormal areas are refined using the volume constraints. We validate the finite element code against a 1D and 2D reservoir model and study the performance of the local mesh refinement strategy. The Canonical disc model illustrates the utility of the finite element method for 3D CSEM modeling. The bathymetry model study shows that the seafloor topography gives an important response which needs to be reproduced by numerical modeling to avoid the misinterpretation of measurements.