Linking Basin Modeling with Seismic Attributes through Rock Physics

Abstract

In this study, we examine how applying rock physics models can refine the link between basin modeling and seismic attributes. The data set used in the study is the E-Dragon II data in the Gulf of Mexico. At the start of the study, we model relationships that describe changes of seismic velocities as a function of porosity, effective stress and pore fluid pressure. After that, we build 1D basin models to examine the impact of applying different rock physics models on calibrating the basin models with seismic velocities. Finally, we invert near angle partial stack seismic data into elastic impedance to shown an example of attribute that can calibrate basin models over a large spatial extent and we demonstrate the potential of using basin modeling outputs to constrain impedance background models for seismic inversion. The results from the study suggest the importance of establishing rock physics models that describe changes of seismic attributes with rock properties and applying them afterwards to link basin modeling outputs with their associated seismic attributes. Also, the results show that the link between basin modeling and seismic attributes is a two-way link that can have potential impact for both basin modeling and seismic technology.