Structural mapping of the Vinton salt dome, Louisiana, using gravity gradiometry data

Abstract

Seismic imaging of complex faulting and associated petroleum reservoirs adjacent to onshore salt domes in the Gulf Coast region is both expensive and time consuming. Modeling studies show that gravity gradiometry data have the resolution to image such reservoirs where seismic is unavailable or cost averse. Full Tensor Gravity Gradiometry (FTG) data, which are higher resolution than conventional gravity data, have been acquired by Bell Geospace over the Vinton salt dome located in southwest Louisiana. Overlays of interpreted faults and a contour map of the areal extent of the salt on top of each component of the gravity gradient tensor show strong correlations useful for mapping structural elements of the dome.