3D Retro-Deformation – A Workflow for Identification of Small-Scale Deformation in 3D Seismics

In this study we focus on the development of a workflow, combining 3D retro-deformation with detailed seismic interpretation and well data, to investigate the distribution and magnitude of strain over a wide range of scales. <br><br>We investigated a 3D seismic data set and constructed a 3D structural model to quantitatively assess geometrical parameters such as fault displacement and kinematic vectors. 3D retro-deformation of the structural model was used to validate its geometric and kinematic characteristics. Additionally, using coherency data we interpreted the fault pattern of one horizon in detail, in order to analyse fault parameters like length, density, and connectivity. Furthermore, we compare these results with natural data, such as fracture data from boreholes.<br><br>The results of 3D retro-deformation verified the results of the detailed seismic interpretation and the well data, in terms of distribution and orientation of fractures. Therefore, we propose that 3D retro-deformation is a helpful tool to improve the prediction of fractures.