September 2003 Events Calendar

Sept 3-4, 2003, HGS Africa Symposium: Westchase Hilton, 9999 Westheimer, Houston, TX The Africa Symposium is rapidly FILLING UP due to great response! With only three weeks to go, less than 100 seats remain! Don't Wait! Register Today! Registration forms, detail of program at
http://www.hgs.org/meet0903.htm#pesgb Questions? email Africa03@att.net

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September 3 & 4: OIL SANDS TRADE SHOW AND CONFERENCE 2003 MacDonald Island, Ft. McMurray, Alberta
"Think big: the world's largest petroleum resource"

For more information go to Education Notices

Register online or click here for the registration form (Adobe Acrobat format). For information on exhibit and sponsorship opportunities, please contact Simon Rose at 403-209-3561 or toll free 1-888-799-2545, ext 561.

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Wednesday, September 10, 2003: GSH Technical Breakfast: 7:00 am, Breakfast will be served in the lobby, 7:30 am, Presentation in the iVision room (Food is not allowed in the iVision room) at Schlumberger, Houston Solutions Center, 1325 South Dairy Ashford, Houston, 77077. Speaker: David Paddock (Schlumberger Solutions Center). Title: 3D Seismic Classification--An efficient approach for prospect identification in asset evaluation by Fangjian Xue, Rolf Broetz, David Paddock and Kim Hemsley.
Reservations: GSH 713-463-8920
For further information, please contact John F. Parrish at 281-300-2570 or email GSHTechB@periseis.com Reservations are recommended for this event so Schlumberger can prepare Visitor card keys for those attending. Walkups can be handled, but checkin will go faster for everyone if there is a list covering most of the guests.

Summary
3D seismic classification is a breakthrough emerging technology to determine 3D distribution of pore fluid and lithology from multiple, seismic attribute volumes. This technique provides an innovative, time-saving solution in identification and definition of prospective targets, especially in areas with multiple pay zones and complex geology. A 3D seismic classification analysis performed on the productive Miocene trend of the Gulf Coast has revealed numerous prospective targets adjacent to and below existing fields. A supervised classification method was used to define classes of fluid and lithofacies based on knowledge of well production, lithology and seismic attributes. These classes include bright-spot gas sand, bright-spot oil sand, bright-spot wet sand, dim-spot oil sand, dim-spot wet sand and shale. Five seismic attribute cubes were used as input for the classification: conventional seismic, acoustic impedance, reflection strength, instantaneous frequency, and Volume Reflection Spectrum. Using cross-plot discriminant analysis, extra classes were defined based on their cluster distribution, separating classes based on their degree of risk. The generated class cubes provide the location of prospective targets and the associated probability cubes provide quantitative estimation of risk. 3D visualization techniques vividly display the distribution of fluid and lithofacies and also provide the volume-percentages of different classes, which is important for quality control. Compared with current seismic interpretation and classification techniques, this technology reduces cycle time and results in more accurate risk assessment. Exploration targets can be more quickly and systematically identified to optimize E&P activities.

Biography

Dave Paddock is the Lead Geophysicist for Schlumberger's DCS Consulting Services group in Schlumberger's Houston Solutions Center. Dave has worked there since 2000 on projects in the proto-Caspian and the Texas and Louisiana Gulf Coast (onshore and offshore) requiring seismic reservoir characterization. Dave's interests are primarily in the prediction of petrophysical properties and the classification of seismic data using multiple seismic attributes, including trace shape, variance, inversion, and conventional attributes. Previously, Dave was with ARCO and Vastar in their Midland and Lafayette offices, serving in exploration, exploration computing, and development roles, where he generated over 20 TCFE of prospects, discovered 8 fields, and performed reservoir geophysics for development drilling programs with up to 7 rigs running simultaneously.

Dave was elected as a Co-Leader of Schlumberger's 400-member Geophysical Interpretation Special Interest Group for 2003 - 2004 and has received Schlumberger's Silver Medal (with his teammates) for an Austin Chalk reservoir characterization project.

Dave earned a bachelor of science degree in mathematics and a master of science degree in geology with a geophysics option from Michigan State University and holds an MBA from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.

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September 9 - 11, 2003: APPEX 2003 at the George R. Brown Convention Center, Houston, TX For more information go to Education Notices

Sign up for your booth today at: http://www.aapg.org/meetings/appex/. With
additional questions, please contact Michelle Mayfield-Gentzen at
888-945-2274 X 618.

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Tuesday, September 16, 2003: GSH Technical Luncheon: 11:30 AM at Hess Building, 5430 Westheimer. Title: RECENT ADVANCES AND FUTURE CHALLENGES IN GEOPRESSURE PREDICTION. Speaker: Alan R. Huffman, Fusion Geophysical Cost: $22 w/reservation, $27 at the door. Reservations: GSH 713/463-9477or Email: Joan @ hgs.org (Reservations are encouraged)

Abstract:
Pre-drill pressure prediction using geophysical data and methods has historically been done using very simple models and has been restricted by overly simplistic estimates of the Earth's velocity field. The methods used have usually been a locally calibrated set of curves for pressure that had imbedded in them assumptions about the cause of pressure in the geological section that the control wells came from. The advent of the effective stress concept and the pressure prediction methods that developed from that concept led to a much-needed inclusion of fundamental physics into the art of pressure prediction. The range of software available for pressure prediction has grown significantly in recent years, and the sophistication of the parameters used has also increased. Still, the biggest weaknesses of the method are the limitations of the seismic velocities themselves and the lack of understanding of the basic causes of pressure and their effects on physical properties, including velocity, density and porosity, of the rocks that we penetrate with the drill bit.

Biography:
Dr. Alan R. Huffman is a recognized technical and business leader in the petroleum industry with over 20 years of experience in Geosciences. His expertise includes direct detection of hydrocarbons, geopressure prediction, advanced imaging methods, physical properties analysis, rock physics, geological hazard analysis and the mechanics of high-strain-rate deformation of geologic materials. He received a Bachelors degree in Geology from Franklin and Marshall College in 1983, and a Ph.D. in Geophysics from Texas A&M University in 1990. His main research focus was rock physics and mechanics and crustal seismology. His doctoral research on shock deformation of silicates led to numerous publications and to his being recognized as a leading expert in the area of high strain rate deformation of natural materials. Huffman is active in industry and professional affairs, having chaired numerous technical conferences and having served on organizing committees for the SEG, AADE, AAPG and SPE. He is a member of the SEG, AAPG, AEG, GSA and AGU. He teaches geophysical technology schools in the petroleum industry, and has presented lectures and seminars at several universities.
As the Vice President of Operations for Fusion Geophysical LLC, he is responsible for the daily operations and all service projects performed by the company. Dr. Huffman also designs and implements the marketing and technology strategy for the company's products and services, and acts as the primary liaison with customers and alliance partners. Dr. Huffman is also the President & CEO of Fusion Petroleum Technologies Inc., the Texas operating subsidiary of Fusion Geophysical LLC.
Before joining Fusion in 2002, Huffman held the title of Manager of The Seismic Imaging Technology Center (SITC) with Conoco from 1997-2002. From 1990 to 1997, Huffman was employed by Exxon Corporation. Huffman was actively involved in the exploration and field development process from the acquisition of 3D seismic, to final interpretation, and to the planning and drilling of wells in the United States, The Far East, West Africa and Russia. He worked a wide variety of projects from regional exploration studies to detailed field and reservoir scale projects.

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Wednesday, September 17, 2003: GSH Processing SIG: 4:30 pm Social, 5:00 pm Presentation at Core Laboratories, 6316 Windfern, Houston, TX 77040, 713-328-2673. Title: Integrated Seismic Analysis of Carbonate Reservoirs: From the Framework to the Volume Attributes. Speaker: J.F. 'Rick' Sarg ­Stratigraphy Coordinator, ExxonMobil Exploration Co. Reservations: GSH 713-463-9477. Questions: Karl Seibert, Core Lab, RTD Seismic Processing Division 713-328-2673

Integrated Seismic Analysis of Carbonate Reservoirs: From the Framework to the Volume Attributes

J. F. "Rick" Sarg, ExxonMobil Exploration Company, Houston; and James S. Schuelke, ExxonMobil Upstream Research Co., Houston

Summary

The recognition of the significance of seismic geometries and the depositional sequence concepts derived from them has revolutionized carbonate stratigraphy. New insight into carbonate platform evolution has been gained from outcrops by describing subseismic geometric and facies relationships within a larger seismic-scale chronostratigraphic framework. Integration of the outcrop and seismic and knowledge of the subseismic facies distributions has improved seismic stratigraphic prediction. Recently, seismic analysis of carbonate strata has focused on the generation of more accurate and robust stratigraphic frameworks and large-scale carbonate platform architecture. Delineating the depositional sequence framework provides a predictive way to map reservoir (e.g., grainstone shoals, reefal rudstones and floatstones, etc.), source, and seal lithofacies, and to qualitatively delineate the early diagenetic history of a platform (e.g., subaerial exposure at sequence boundaries). Pore systems are complex and record both depositional and diagenetic controls. Outcrop dimensional data, and forward seismic models help to quantitatively populate geometrically constrained stratigraphic models, and validate seismic predictions of stratigraphy and lithofacies.

The sequence framework also provides constraints for geologic modeling in exploration and production settings. The introduction of 3-D seismic, seismic attributes (e. g., amplitude, frequency, phase), and visualization technology integrated with rock physics, core, and outcrop lithofacies dimensions provide new opportunities to delineate meter to decimeter-scale stratigraphy. Attribute and seismic facies can be mapped in 3-D volumes and provide spatial distributions of individual stratal bodies. Low impedance contrasts within platforms can be due to subtle porosity changes and are detectable with seismic inversion.

Efforts to significantly improve seismic imaging of carbonate sequences are critical to any advances in the area of volume and attribute interpretation. The unique aspects of carbonates, including high impedance, low impedance contrasts within platform successions, lack of bedding and complex pore systems in reefal lithofaces, the potential for steep depositional slopes, and the chaotic character of karsted terrain's all can potentially diminish seismic quality and resolution. The intimate association with mobile evaporites in many basins produces complex structures and steep dips that present challenges to seismic acquisition and processing. Carbonates are commonly interbedded with siliciclastics that have much lower impedance, resulting in a strong susceptibility for multiple generation.

Biography:

J.F. 'Rick' Sarg ­ currently Stratigraphy Coordinator, ExxonMobil Exploration Co.
Ph.D., Geology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, 1976. MS (1971) and BS (1969) in Geology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA. Twenty-six years petroleum exploration and production experience in research, supervisory, and operational assignments with Mobil (1976), Exxon (1976-90), Independent Consultant (1990-92), Mobil Technology Company (1992-99) where attained position of research scientist, and now ExxonMobil Exploration (2000-present). Member of exploration research group at Exxon that developed sequence stratigraphy, with an emphasis on carbonate sequence concepts. Worldwide experience in integrated seismic-well-outcrop interpretation of siliciclastic and carbonate sequences. Authored or co-authored 28 papers on carbonate sedimentology and stratigraphy.

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The Speaker: Paul Jones is Gulf Coast Regional Manager for GeoPLUS Corp. Previously he was the geophysical products manager for Seismic MicroTechnology. Jones spent 15 years at Chevron Exploration and Production Company working various basins and assignments and co-authored four articles on seismic interpretation and visualization. He is a member of SEG and HGS and received a BS in Geology from Michigan State University.

The Co-author: Tom Wittick is President and founder of Lindon Exploration Company. The company provides consulting and cost-effective application of state-of-the-art geophysical and engineering technology to oil and gas exploration and development projects. Through his work with the company Tom has worked in most of the hydrocarbon-producing basins of the U.S. as well as many international areas. Prior to founding Lindon Exploration in 1984, Tom held the positions of geophysicist, seismic data processing manager, division geophysicist, and division exploration manager for various oil and service companies. He holds a masters degree from Kansas State University and a bachelorâs degree from Wheaton College.

The Presentation: The most effective and accurate use of 3D seismic data for reservoir development relates multiple seismic attributes such as amplitude, frequency and phase to reservoir properties including porocity, thickness and reservoir contents. The speaker will present a new method of combined multi-attribute reservoir property estimation using data from the Sooner field in Weld County Colorado. A high resolution 3D seismic survey is tied with digital well logs from 27 key wells using synthetic seismograms and a multiple linear regression scheme identifying seismic attributes most sensitive to net sand variations in four horizons.

The four attributes that rank highest are instantaneous frequency, amplitude, isochron of peak to trough, and a depth-converted horizon of the Huntsman Sand. These attributes are combined using the multiple linear regression technique to predict net sand thickness,

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Thursday September 18, 2003: GSH Potential Fields SIG: An Evening with Gravity Gradiometry (A Mini-Symposium): 5:30 Social Hour; 6:30 Dinner; 7:30 Presentation at HESS building, 5430 Westheimer, Houston (Click titles for Abstract and Biographies)

1. Understanding Gravity Gradients  (Poster Presentation) by Afif H. Saad*,  Saad GeoConsulting

2. Airborne Full Tensor Gradiometry: A method for refining geological and geophysical models by  Gary W. Coburn* and Gary Mumaw,  Bell Geospace, Inc

 

3. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT GRAVITY GRADIOMETRY by Manik Talwani*,  Rice University

Cost : $25.00 ($30.00 for Late or No Reservations)

Contact: Afif Saad, Chair -GSH Potential Fields Group,at 281-342-8575 (AfifHSaad@netscape.net or AfifHSaad@hssoa.com) or Bob Van Nieuwenhuise, Co-Chair at 281-391-6444 Ext.229 (BobVearthwave@aol.com) by Tuesday,September 16, 2003 for reservations. E-mail is best because we can confirm your reservation. Please HONOR your reservation! We must bill no-shows!

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September 22, 2003: HGS Annual Golf Tournament at Kingwood Country Club & Deerwood Country Club Note: You must register 1 month in advance, by August 23, 2003. Click the link below for details and to register: http://www.hgs.org/socl0903.htm#golf

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Wednesday, September 24, 2003: GSH Rock Physics SIG: 5:30 p.m. at the Visualization Center, Veritas DGC, Inc., 10300 Town Park Dr., Houston, TX 77072. Title: Predicting Fizz Saturation with AVO. Speaker:
Fred Hilterman, Geophysical Development Corporation. Reservations: GSH (713) 463-9477 or Email joan@hgs.org. Contact: Keith Katahara (keith@spinexp.com)or Tad Smith (tad_smith@veritasdgc.com)

Abstract:
In 1982, SEG's Delphi Survey forecasted that seismic would solve the problem of drilling partially saturated reservoirs (fizz) by 1995. Unfortunately, this has not occurred. Our limited success is often attributed to the application of only two terms in AVO inversion. However, a gas reservoir can have the same AVO curve as a higher-porosity fizz reservoir. Thus, AVO inversion, even with robust three-term solutions,
will not distinguish gas reservoirs from fizz without additional information about the rock properties.
For insight about the effect of saturation on AVO, Wang's three-term equation is examined. Wang defines three reflectivities that are associated with velocity, density and rigidity changes. As expected, the rigidity term is rather insensitive to fluid properties while the ratio of the density reflectivity to the velocity reflectivity is indicative of fluid saturation for a common reservoir.
Next, Wang's reflectivities were related to a rock-property database constructed from the deep-water Gulf of Mexico. Sand and shale properties exhibit a strong statistical correlation when they are referenced to individual reservoirs rather than depth. In fact, the reflection coefficient for gas and oil reservoirs can be accurately estimated from the wet-reservoir NI. In addition, the AVO velocity, density and rigidity
reflectivities were linearly fitted to the zero-offset amplitude. In short, with an estimate of NI for a wet reservoir, the NI for gas and fizz are predicted and then the shape of the AVO curve for any saturant is predicted. While this procedure doesn't uniquely distinguish fizz from gas saturation, it does offer a method to quantify rock-property assumptions and thus quantify risk.

Biography:
Fred J. Hilterman received a geophysical engineering degree and PhD in geophysics from Colorado School of Mines. He worked with Mobil from 1963-1973. In 1973, he joined the University of Houston where he was a Professor of Geophysics. At UH, Fred co-founded the Seismic Acoustics Laboratory (SAL). In 1981, he co-founded GDC, now a subsidiary of Geokinetics. Fred also lectures at UH where he is a Distinguished Research Professor.

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The Geophysical Auxiliary of Houston invites the wife of any present or past member of the GSH or SEG, the widows of former members of the GSH and SEG and women members of these organizations to join us for our 2003-2004 year.
Many wonderful events are being planned for 2003-2004 and we would really love to have you join us! Sign up now so you can start receiving our newsletter and not miss a single event.
We will begin on September 24 with a tour of the "Forbidden Gardens" followed by a Chinese buffet luncheon at a nearby restaurant.
Forbidden Gardens, in Katy, Texas is a fascinating outdoor museum replicating some of China's major historic scenes. Guided tours take you back to the third century BC to view the first Emperor's amazing 6,000-piece terra-cotta army replicated in 1/3 scale. The tour continues to the intricately detailed miniatures of the famous Forbidden City in Beijing, which served as palaces for nearly 500 years of Imperial rule. Come and experience the mystery and magic of Imperial China. Forbidden Gardens is a must-see for everyone who wants to embark on an unforgettable journey to a faraway land without stepping outside of Texas.

The following ladies are serving as officers and committee chairpersons for the 2003-2004 year: Carol Gafford, Nan Pye, Donna Parrish, Mary Elizabeth Sims, Betty Conroy, Emilie Fulton, Georgeann Massell, Phyllis Winborn, Ruth Harrison, Pat Abercrombie, Kathi Hilterman, Lynn Schoenberger, and Luann Cefola.

Please join us as we look forward to a year of entertaining, enjoyable and enlightening programs. Yearly dues are only $15.00. Call Membership Chairperson, Donna Parrish at 281-859-8088, GSH Liaison, Luann Cefola at 281-759-7338, or President, Carol Gafford, at 281-370-3264 for a membership application and information on how to join.

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Cost is $25.00 per person. Please make your checks payable to: Geotech & Design Services. For Reservations call:

Ashley Nealis
Marketing Manager
Geotech & Design Services
(281) 492-0530
or by email to - Ashley.Nealis@geotechmap.net

Please indicate your entrée' preference of beef or chicken!

Your proud sponsors of this Chief Geologists Luncheon are:

Jim Zaki ­ Geotech & Design Services - (281) 492-0530
Log and map digitizing and computer graphics

Steve Starr ­ The WorkStation Place - (281 492-1956
Your Place, Our Place or on the Road
Black Dragon SMT interpretation workstations rental

Sam LeRoy ­ Earthview Associates - (281) 556-9766
SMT start to finish ­- Project building, mentoring, and interpretation

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