Theory and Application of Integrated Pore Pressure Prediction in Deepwater Exploration

An integrated pore pressure analysis technique has been applied to reduce the uncertainty of risks in exploration prospects<br>in deepwater Gulf of Mexico, West Africa, and offshore Brazil. Pre-drill predictions of pore pressure related attributes<br>have not only enhanced the success of exploration programs, but also have optimized the design of deepwater drilling<br>programs. The pore pressure analysis technique is based on the integration of 3D high resolution and high density velocity<br>field derived from seismic pre-stack migration gathers and acoustic impedance inverted from a calibrated seismic<br>migration volume. Case studies have revealed that 75% of pre-drill predictions, using 3D high resolution seismic<br>velocities, fall within 1 ppg accuracy. In conjunction with the application of real-time analyses, we have further improved<br>prediction accuracies.