A Reservoir Characterization Case Study for Sedimentary Geology

Abstract

We describe a multiple-week reservoir characterization lab for sedimentary geology that utilizes collection, analysis, and interpretation of outcrop and subsurface data on a fluvial unit that we use as an analog for hypothetical hydrocarbon reservoir. Students conduct analyses of (1) sedimentary facies and structures, (2) stratigraphic surfaces, (3) porosity and permeability, and (4) gamma-ray logs using data they collect in the field and lab in addition to data available on the course web site. British Petroleum (BP) collected the dataset in the course of a research project, and subsequently donated it to the University of Oklahoma; accordingly, it is an extremely rich and entirely realistic dataset, yet is highly accessible and modular in nature. Field data are collected during a trip to the outcrop conducted in the first lab session; a virtual field trip using materials available on CD (available from the authors) can be conducted by schools far afield of the outcrop site. In subsequent lab sessions, students analyze their field data in addition to data they examine in lab (thin sections, hand samples), and data available on the website (petrophysical mesurements). Ultimately, students synthesize their data and assess the character of fluid flow through the reservoir by considering lateral and vertical facies heterogeneity and the implications for reservoir behavior. Students individually collect and analyze most of the data, but orally present their synthesis in teams This exercise allows students to hone their skills in field-data collection, and analysis and interpretation of variety of real-world sedimentary geology data types, and provides the chance to integrate such data to address a realistic case study.