Seismic Attribute Analysis of Fractures in Woodford Shale

Volumetric seismic attributes allow interpreters to map the structural deformation and subtle stratigraphic details that are not readily observable on seismic data. In this study, we investigate fracture illumination in the Woodford Shale of the Arkoma Basin, U.S.A based on seismic attribute analysis. Coherence allows us to map relatively large offset discrete faults that appear to have a wrench component, while curvature allows us to map more subtle folds and flexures that are closely associated with fracture swarms. Low acoustic impedance anomalies have a strong correlation with structural lineaments given by most-negative curvature, strongly suggesting either natural fractures or diagenetic alteration. The proximity of microseismic events to ridge/dome features suggests that the formation of ridge/dome features generated paleo-zones of structural weakness.