Fracture Density Prediction Using Elastic Parameters of Rocks in Fractured Reservoirs

Diffuse fracture characterization, in hydrocarbon producing reservoirs, is generally based on analysis of BHI logs. It is thus strongly dependent on quality and availability of these data. We propose a new method of diffuse fracture density estimation, which is based on relations between dynamic elastic parameters of rocks and fracture density. Based on RHOB and DSI Sonic logs (DTCO and DTSM) which permit calculating logs of dynamic elastic parameters, this method allows generating simulated fracture density logs by an empirical relation using parameter E/PR (Young modulus/Poisson ratio). The method has been applied to four fractured reservoirs worldwide. It gives some good preliminary results, especially for carbonated fields (limestones and dolomites) with diffuse fractures.