Processing and interpretation of 3C-3D seismic data: Clastic and carbonate numerical models

Glenn Allen Larson, Robert R. Stewart

Three-dimensional (3-D) seismic images have become an essential tool in seismic exploration. The interpretation tools and practices for conventional (acoustic) 3-D have been developed over the past 20 years. Converted-wave seismic images can accompany a conventional acoustic survey and provide a powerful adjunct to a more complete interpretation. A 3-D converted-wave survey is acquired using a numerical model. The model contains a clastic and a carbonate setting. Extra elastic-wave information (e.g. Vp/Vs values, P-P and P-S amplitude maps) allows further characterization of the clastic anomaly. The elastic-wave data successfully identifies a thickening wedge of porosity at the top of the reef in the carbonate model.