The Duvernay Formation-the application of simultaneous inversion for reservoir characterization

Ronald M. Weir, Donald C. Lawton, Laurence R. Lines

This paper describes the analysis of multi-component inversion data integrated with structural interpretation.This workflow is used for characterizing a low permeability unconventional reservoir, both in a structural and lithologic sense. This includes the determination of a time-depth relationship using synthetic seismograms, generation of seismic derived structural maps, and the determination of inversion based parameters of density, shear wave, and p wave velocity. The model based procedure includes poststack (acoustic) inversion, AVO prestack inversion, and joint PP-PS inversion. With these rock properties determined, calculations are made to determine Young’s Modulus, Poisson’s Ratio and brittleness. Faults are mapped based on time slices, isochrons and observing correlatable vertical displacements. Seismic derived attributes, when combined with structural mapping can highlight zones most favorable to hydraulic fracturing. The mapping of structural discontinuities can also lead to an understanding of zones of preexisting weakness, and an understanding of induced seismicity risk.