Innovative hybrid algorithm designed to enhance seismic characterization

Pascal Klein and Andy Peloso of Paradigm present a method for multi-disciplinary interpretation of rock and fluid properties by classifying data into seismic facies volumes, used to describe and characterize seismic heterogeneities and properties. Seismic facies analysis has been performed since the use of seismic data for E&P. The traditional method of seismic interpretation involves analyzing the seismic reflection patterns, including configurations (i.e. sigmoidal, hummocky, etc.) and their associated attributes (i.e. amplitude, frequency, continuity, etc.). These patterns and/or configurations were mapped to generate a seismic facies map. This technique, however, is painstakingly slow, very dependent on the interpreter’s skills, and limited to 2D. With the introduction of computer-aided seismic facies techniques, this process is automated and volume-based. These techniques classify all samples from a set of seismic attribute volumes over a user specified zone to produce a volume of classified samples. The multi-attribute seismic classification methodology performs a clustering of the samples of a set of input attributes. These techniques continue to grow and play a vital role in interpretation workflows within the industry. In recent years, there has been an explosion in the number of seismic attributes available for use in E&P. Use of these attributes helps analyze the subsurface and can reveal important features, from regional geology to detailed reservoir properties. To effectively understand the multitude of seismic attributes, Paradigm has developed classification techniques to support the quantitative assessment of exploration targets and to improve reservoir characterization within field development projects (Peloso et al., 2005). The objective of the facies classification process is to describe characteristics within the seismic data and relate these characteristics to the interpretation of rock and fluid properties and help identify quality hydrocarbon accumulations.