Reservoir Tracking in 3-D - An Inversion Case Study

Abstract

Acoustic impedance inversion (AI) of 3-D seismic data has resulted in the identification of low impedance bodies that can be correlated to sandstone reservoirs on the Talbot-Anson Horst, Timor Sea. Calibration of the impedance values within the bodies with nearby well control, including the Talbot-1 oil well, suggests that the anomalous units are hydrocarbon bearing. Further evidence for the occurrence of hydrocarbons lays in the fact that low impedance anomalies exist in the bodies above a possible hydrocarbon-water contact, whereas higher impedances exist below. AI inversion in 3-D has reduced the perceived risk associated with reservoir and trap for the Anson West prospect and increased the potential volume of this hydrocarbon prospect.