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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

Utah Geological Association

Abstract


Geology of Northern Utah and Vicinity, 1999
Pages 141-150

Three-Dimensional Previous HitDepthNext Hit Previous HitImagingNext Hit of Seismic Data to Assess Subsurface Geology in Northern Utah and Southwestern Wyoming

Alvin K. Benson

Abstract

Self-consistent Previous HitdepthNext Hit Previous HitimagingNext Hit of seismic data in three dimensions is used to map the complex subsurface geology in northern Utah and southwestern Wyoming. Concepts are illustrated with a prototype thrust-fault model of the region. Data from the model illustrate the complications produced by rapid lateral velocity variations in the rocks and the importance of using Previous HitdepthNext Hit Previous HitimagingNext Hit versus conventional time Previous HitimagingNext Hit of seismic data when mapping complex geology.

Case studies from northern Utah and southwestern Wyoming are examined to demonstrate new methods that provide improved images of seismic data. For both locations, stacking velocities initially were used to derive interval velocities for Previous HitmodelingNext Hit, but this leads to incorrect, contradictory geology. Subsequently, velocity information from available well logs helped produce much improved Previous HitdepthNext Hit models for the Previous HitdepthNext Hit-Previous HitimagingNext Hit process. When a grid of data is available, the Previous HitimagingNext Hit should typically be done in three dimensions.

In the first case study from southwestern Wyoming, many diffraction events are produced by the sharp velocity contrasts across the Absaroka Fault. A Previous HitdepthNext Hit-imaged section cleans up these diffractions and greatly aids the interpretation of the faulting. Two good producing wells are located through the Absaroka fault plate.

In the second case study from northern Utah, a two-dimensional Previous HitdepthNext Hit-imaged section does not explain crossing events due to seismic energy coming from out-of-the-plane. Subsequently, a two-pass, three-dimensional Previous HitdepthNext Hit image was produced, which provides the “best” Previous HitdepthNext Hit image; and the final interpretation, as confirmed by drilling, is much closer to reality. Previous HitDepthNext Hit Previous HitimagingNext Hit, and when the data are available, three-dimensional Previous HitdepthNext Hit Previous HitimagingTop, are essential for clarifying structure beneath complex overburden to help map and assess subsurface hydrocarbon traps.


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