Seismic acquisition and imaging strategies for unlocking subsurface complexities in Malaysian basins

Abstract

Seismic data acquisition and imaging technologies have made important contributions to hydrocarbon discoveries and enhancing recovery from existing reservoirs in Malaysian basins. PETRONAS has been leveraging these technologies to address the exploration and development challenges encountered in Malaysian basins and other parts of the world and to support its play-based exploration. Some of the key technology applications include imaging below shallow gas and carbonates, imaging of complex geology for exploring deep water and deep plays, and high-resolution imaging of shallow clastic plays. Dual and multimeasurement streamers, multiazimuth and full-azimuth seismic, triple- and penta-source blended acquisition, and two- and four-component seabed seismic technologies have been integrated with high-end processing and imaging technologies such as advanced demultiple techniques, deblending, full-waveform inversion, reverse time migration, and PS-converted wave imaging to address complex subsurface challenges. In this article, we present an overview of the evolution and application of innovative seismic acquisition and imaging technologies in Malaysian basins. Selected case histories demonstrate how these technologies have enabled explorers to unlock subsurface complexities, adding value to exploration and development activities. We share the advancements in 3D seismic survey design, marine streamer acquisition, seabed seismic acquisition, and seismic imaging technologies, and how an integrated approach helped PETRONAS address geologic challenges to enhance its exploration success.