Stratigraphic and Lithofacies Computer Modeling in Three Dimensions: ABSTRACT

Abstract

A new computer method has been developed to create a three-dimensional lithostratigraphic model from well and seismic data. The model is constructed by interpolating and extrapolating lithofacies data in three dimensions, within a time-stratigraphic framework. Volumes as large as a sedimentary basin or as small as an oil or gas field can be accommodated. The modeling method involves rescaling of original data from a depth to a geologic time scale prior to interpolation, and inverse rescaling thereafter. Displays of the three-dimensional interpretation are in the form of structure contour maps and lithofacies maps representing any geologic time. Also serial cross sections are obtained, which show lithofacies arrangements such as layers, lenses, channels, pinch-outs, reefs, and facies variations. Volumes of all types of sediments are computed. This stratigraphic modeling technique is of interest to exploration and production geologists and geophysicists, because it provides a more complete interpretation than conventional mapping techniques. End_of_Article - Last_Page 447------------