Mapping the geological structures in the Ras El Ush field (Gulf of Suez, Egypt), based on seismic interpretation and 3D modeling techniques

Abstract

The Ras El Ush field (Gulf of Suez, Egypt) is characterized by various complex structural features, such as evaporite deposits and faulting. Such complex geologic setting results in difficulties in terms of high-resolution seismic interpretation. The seismic energy was masked by the Pre-Miocene salt formation and attenuated by evaporite deposits in the upper Miocene, complicating the seismic interpretation process. Proper geophysical seismic imaging and interpretation of Ras El Ush field's associated structures and sedimentation can provide insights into the geological controls on hydrocarbon systems in the Gulf of Suez rift zone. This study interpreted post-stacked reflection seismic and well data comprising the check shot velocity data to obtain and investigate detailed information about the structural fault orientation and dip of Ras El Ush field. Seismic attributes were employed for improving the fault attributes by eliminating noise and residue of non-faulting events. Additionally, depth maps and 3D structural models were constructed for Rudeis, Nukhul and Matulla formations, the main geological formations within the area of interest. This study presents results from seismic attributes analyses to enhance the detection of the Clysmic fault-offsetting aggregate as well as the minor and major cross faults that passed through the Ras El Ush field. The structural model of the Rudeis, Nukhul, and Matulla formations in the Ras El Ush field exhibits distinct NW-SE to NE-SW fault systems. The models helped in defining geological discontinuities and structural traps, which would help in the development of the field and nearby similar hydrocarbon fields in the Gulf of Suez (Egypt).