Frontiers in Earth Science (Sep 2023)

DFN modelling constrained by multiple seismic attributes using the steering pyramid technology

  • Yudi Wang,
  • Yudi Wang,
  • Yungui Xu,
  • Yungui Xu,
  • Libing Du,
  • Libing Du,
  • Shanshan Gai,
  • Wenzheng Yu,
  • Xuri Huang,
  • Xuri Huang

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/feart.2023.1257481
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 11

Abstract

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Fracture modelling is essential for understanding fluid flow in fractured hydrocarbon reservoirs, particularly in the phase of production; however, traditional discrete fracture network (DFN) modelling methods lack constraints that reflect characteristics of fracture development. Fractures or fracture networks exhibit a high degree of randomness; as such, it is difficult to model fracture characteristics. This paper proposes a new approach for DFN modelling constrained by seismic attributes. Firstly, the steerable pyramid method is adopted to improve seismic data resolution; secondly, multiple seismic attributes are extracted and combined into a composite attribute to characterize fracture spatial distribution; finally, a DFN modelling method is established by using the composite attribute as a location constraint. To verify the effectiveness of the approach, a case study is conducted in the Bonan Depression, in East China. The results show that, compared with the traditional DFN modelling methods, the DFN modelling with the location constraint create a more realistic fracture model which accurately reflects fracture distribution characteristics. The application demonstrates the potential of wide application prospects in fractured reservoirs.

Keywords