Chapter 12 - Other Applications of Numerical Simulation Methodology

Abstract

The chapter discusses the mathematical models used for numerical simulations and describes the uses of the same. With increasing depth of exploration, one of the major problems is the estimation of influence of natural factors, such as overburden and effective pressures, reservoir pressure, formation temperature and lithology, and pore space geometry, on the petrophysical properties of sedimentary rocks. Mathematical models of the processes that describe the influence of pressure, temperature, and structural and lithological factors on the petrophysical properties of sedimentary rocks can be presented using two approaches—deterministic and probabilistic. Both of these approaches are mutually dependent and their combination enables the generalization of studied processes. Statistical methods can be used only when sufficient data exist. The data are obtained either at the stage of the completion of exploration or during the subsequent development of a deposit. Such studies are especially appropriate for the exploration and development of offshore oil and gas field of the offshore areas of Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan. Data collection first involves determination of the petrophysical properties of rocks if cores are available. Secondly, limiting values of any parameter used for the identification of beds are determined. Both of these present problems in the simulation of rock properties. To solve the problems of numerical simulation of reservoir rock and caprock properties, mathematical models of various parameters of rocks and the basic geologic data of different accuracy and reliability are used. The chapter also describes the theory, methods, and computer techniques for these simulations.