Interpretational applications of spectral decomposition in reservoir characterization

Abstract

Spectral decomposition provides a novel means of utilizing seismic data and the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) for imaging and mapping temporal bed thickness and geologic discontinuities over large 3-D seismic surveys. By transforming the seismic data into the frequency domain via the DFT, the amplitude spectra delineate temporal bed thickness variability while the phase spectra indicate lateral geologic discontinuities. This technology has delineated stratigraphic settings (such as channel sands and structural settings involving complex fault systems) in 3-D surveys.