Integration of coherence and volumetric curvature images

• Published in: Leading edge (Tulsa, Okla.) Vol. 29; no. 9; pp. 1092 - 1107
• Main Authors: Chopra, Satinder, Marfurt, Kurt J
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Society of Exploration Geophysicists 01-09-2010
• Subjects: Alberta; applied (geophysical surveys & methods); Argentina; Canada; carbonate rocks; data processing; diagenesis; faults; fluvial environment; fractures; Gaussian methods; geophysical methods; Geophysics; high-resolution methods; impedance; mathematical methods; Perito Moreno Lake; prediction; sedimentary rocks; seismic attributes; seismic coherency; seismic methods; South America; three-dimensional models; volume; Western Canada
• ISSN: 1070-485X; 1938-3789
• DOI: 10.1190/1.3485770

Volumetric attributes computed from 3D seismic data are powerful tools in the prediction of fractures and other stratigraphic features. Geologic structures often exhibit curvature of different wavelengths, providing different perspectives of the same geology. Tight (short-wavelength) curvature delineates details within intense, highly localized fracture systems. Broad (long-wavelength) curvature usually enhances subtle flexures on the scale of 100-200 traces that are difficult to see in conventional seismic, but often correlate to fracture zones below seismic resolution, and also collapse features and diagenetic alterations that result in broader bowls. We present a number of curvature examples demonstrating their interpretational value.