EVOLUTION OF SEISMIC TECHNOLOGY INTO THE 1980's

Abstract

In the last few years, the quality and resolution of subsurface images, based on seismic data, have improved considerably with the introduction of wavelet processing and three-dimensional (3D) seismic techniques. Together, these are being used increasingly in field development to optimize drilling locations and improve estimates of hydrocarbon reserves.

Exploiting the steady gains in computer performance, significant enhancement in image resolution is being achieved using the convolutional model of seismic wave propagation. In the 1980's, progress will proceed apace along this path, one which is analogous to the photographic imaging technique; furthermore the wavelet processing techniques will continue to improve, aided by better imaging methods based on holographic principles.

Another innovation that will offer the potential for a more accurate estimation of hydrocarbon reserves is the application of inversion by modelling. These methods generate estimates of the subsurface lithologic parameters directly from the data. The results are reconciled with available borehole logs and used to define reservoir characteristics at the spatial sampling of the data.