Basin Modeling Approach to Fault Seal Prediction through Geologic Time

Marek Kacewicz, Chevron Energy Technology Company, Sugar Land, TX 77478, phone: 281-287-5241, fax: 281-276-9361, mkacewicz@chevron.com, Russell Davies, Rock Deformation Research, P.O. Box 2998, McKinney, TX 75070, Matthew Johnson, Gulf of Mexico Deepwater Exploration, Chevron, 1500 Louisiana Street, Houston, TX 77002, Gavin Lewis, Deepwater Gulf of Mexico Exploration, Chevron, 1500 Louisiana Street, Houston, TX 77002, and andrew Thomas, Chevron Energy Technology Company, 1500 Louisiana Street, Houston, TX 77002.

Pressure prediction using basin modeling approaches requires a good understanding of spacial and temporal behavior of matrix and fault rock properties. Wrong rock properties utilized in the models very often result in significant inconsistencies with well data. Understanding of these inconsistencies, however, can be utilized as an additional tool for predicting fault seal properties through geologic time.

This paper presents an integrated approach based on basin modeling combined with diagenetic and mechanical predictions of fault and matrix rock properties. Multiple iterations allow elimination of unrealistic scenarios and focus on scenarios that should be taken into consideration in pressure prediction, prospect appraisal, etc. Examples from the Gulf of Mexico and South East Asia demonstrate how the approach helped to reduce fault / seal related uncertainty which resulted in better hydrocarbon charge models and in better pressure predictions.

Faults as Seals and Flow Conduits: Fundamental Processes, Predictions, and Applications (AAPG/SEPM)
2007 AAPG Annual Convention and Exhibition (April 1 - 4, 2007) Technical Program