Integrated Core-log and Seismic Analysis for Evaluation of Reservoir Potential in Unconventional Plays

Abstract

Summary Efficient characterization of unconventional plays to define reservoir potential and producibility is of great economic and strategic importance especially during the early phases of exploration. Unconventional reservoirs are predominantly heterogeneous systems with lateral and vertical variability in rock properties, texture and composition driven by the geologic processes of deposition and diagenesis. We present a methodology for regional detection of rock heterogeneity based on the relationships between texture, composition and rock properties, and the effect these have on log and seismic data measurements, to identify rock classes with similar responses, and thus similar anticipated rock properties. Core measurements are used to define reservoir quality and completion quality properties for each of the principal rock classes. The resulting Heterogeneous Earth Model identifies the distribution of regions of highest interest and lowest opportunity in the play, and can assist with optimal well placement and strategic sampling to maximize the time-value of the well log and core data acquisition. This flexible approach facilitates effective early to mature exploration decisions of reservoir quality and potential productivity. An example of the application in the Haynesville is discussed.