Estimation of formation fluid pressure using high-resolution velocity from inversion of seismic data and a rock physics model based on compaction and burial diagenesis of shales

Abstract

Accurate assessment and prediction of formation fluid pressure and fracture gradient form an essential part of the planning process during various phases of hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation; these include regional basin analysis and basin high-grading, prospect identification, analysis, and drilling campaign to lift hydrocarbons. While the literature is full of activities in this field that are linked to the need for drilling safety by providing help with casing and mud weight program—and quite justifiably so—very little discussion addresses another, and very important need: seal integrity and trap configuration analysis.