Chapter 8 - Pore pressure prediction and monitoring

Abstract

This chapter systematically introduces pore pressure prediction methods. Pore pressure prediction in hydraulically connected formations is studied with consideration of the centroid effect. Pore pressure elevation by hydrocarbon columns or faults is investigated to examine shallow gas flow. The commonly used methods for pore pressure prediction from well logs are reviewed. Resistivity, sonic, porosity, and d-exponent methods are modified using depth-dependent normal compaction trends for easy applications. Methods and procedures of real-time pore pressure detection and monitoring are presented. Abnormal pore pressure indicators in the real-time drilling are summarized, which can be used for identifying underbalanced drilling conditions to reduce drilling risks. Case studies in deepwater wells and shale oil and gas reservoirs illustrate how to conduct pore pressure prediction in sedimentary formations.