Machine learning in reservoir characterization: Coupling data resolution-enhancement with hierarchical analysis of 3D seismic attributes for seismic facies classification

Abstract

Utilizing multiple seismic amplitude attributes as features in various machine learning techniques has enhanced reservoir quality and lithofacies classification. However, the underlying limitations of resolution of thin lithofacies and the associated wavelet interference may adversely impact the utility of seismic attributes in facies classification. Hence, characterizing reservoir thin-lithofacies, seismic responses are still challenging due to the compounding effect of thin-layer interference in the case of multi-member/pay rock formations. In this study, we present a case study evidencing the benefits of coupling seismic resolution enhancement, based on spectral whitening, on one hand, and hierarchical seismic attributes classification and depositional carbonates models, on the other hand, to leverage seismic attributes facies signatures and understand the facies controls on reservoir quality.