Enhanced, Three-Dimensional, Multicomponent Seismic Imaging for Lithology and Fluid Characterization

60143 Multicomponent shear-wave seismic data reveal information about subsurface lithologies and fluid properties that is difficult or impossible to obtain with compressional-wave data alone. Although commercially available three-dimensional (3D), multicomponent simulations handle many aspects of the 3D behavior of shear waves in complex media, there are serious gaps. In particular, steps to ensure vector fidelity, separation of P and S wave fields, and correlation between P- and S-wave events are often neglected; consequently, converted-wave imaging may not be performed as efficiently and accurately as required. This project will develop new tools to fill the gaps in commercially available flow simulations for processing 3D multicomponent data. Phase I investigated and prototyped four novel approaches: (1) surface-consistent multicomponent amplitude balancing and vector fidelity, (2) vector wavefield separation, (3) prestack converted-wave imaging algorithm in both the time and depth domains on parallelized computer architectures, and (4) cross-correlation of P- and S-wave events and spatial adjustment of the converted-wave section in time or depth to conform to that of the P-wave section. In Phase II, a 3D multicomponent processing package will be developed, integrating the tools developed in Phase I. Phase II will include comprehensive testing of the individual processing algorithms using synthetic seismic data as well as field seismic data. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The novel methods described in this proposal should improve imaging of hydrocarbon reservoirs and thereby increase domestic oil and gas assets in those areas where multicomponent data have been acquired. The multicomponent processing software can be marketed to major oil companies and smaller independents as well as to seismic contractors.