Keynote; Exploring the Subsurface Using Marin Electromagnetic Seabed Logging Technology

Seismic imaging techniques can readily detect potential hydrocarbon traps, however discriminating between presence of water or hydrocarbons in such traps is a challenge. Detection of subsurface hydrocarbons by a marine controlled-source electromagnetic (MCSEM) surveying application, also known as seabed logging (SBL), shows very promising results as a complementary tool to seismic data. Oil and gas have high electrical resistivity compared to brine-filled sandstones. The major challenge is to analyse the MCSEM data, and to improve understanding of the subsurface to help make the right exploration decisions. Resistivity determination is hardly a fool-proof method for hydrocarbon identification, since many geologic facies are electrically resistive relative to their surroundings. We have developed advanced imaging techniques to reduce the uncertainty of misinterpreting the MSCEM data.