Integrated Modeling to Mitigate Risk in Frontier Exploration Offshore Brazil

Multipurpose 3D geological models were used for an integrated evaluation of the exploration potential of the offshore portions of the Potiguar and Ceará basins of Brazil. Multiclient, prestack depth-migrated 2D seismic data that covered the deeper parts of the basins were tied to released wells in the shallower part of the basins. The well data enabled depth conversion of the seismic data and interpretation of eight horizons. Geochemical data and the geological model were combined to build a 3D basin and petroleum systems model of the area that predicted the amount and location of yet-to-be discovered hydrocarbon accumulations.