Seismic Imaging of Salt Structures in the Gulf of Mexico

Major hydrocarbon accumulations are often associated with salt structures in the Gulf of Mexico. Correctly imaging the salt structures has been and will continue to be an important exploration tool. Defining the salt boundaries and the surrounding sediments enables the geophysicist to explore more effectively for those hydrocarbon accumulations. For example, imaging steeply dipping salt face reflections can assist in optirrizing salt flank well locations. Properly migrating salt overhang reflections that have travelled through salt can aid in determining updip limits of possible reservoir sands. Imaging below salt can help identify structural features that trap significant hydrocarbon resources. Salt imaging technology can also be used to reduce some of the risks associated with salt flank, salt overhang and subsalt drilling.