Method described for using 4D seismic to track reservoir fluid movement

This is the second part of an article about the use of time-lapse 3D seismic data (4D) to analyze changes in reservoir status during production of giant Eugene Island Block 330 field in the Gulf of Mexico off Louisiana. Because of the 4D effects being observed by the partners in the LF sand reservoir, the Global Basins Research Network (GBRN) began an independent but collaborative analysis of the differences observed between the two 3D seismic datasets in this area. The authors utilized a 4D seismic analysis technique consisting of seismic imaging, feature extraction, and pattern recognition functions, coupled iteratively with high resolution, seismic forward and inverse modeling. Pattern recognition, rather than interpolation and recomputation, is used to examine similarities and differences among the seismic amplitudes of the datasets. This technique minimizes the difficulties in matching acquisition parameters, variable geometries, and technology improvements that have accompanied the development of 3D seismic methodologies over the years. The paper details the normalization techniques used, the high amplitude regions, similarities and differences, and analysis of drainage, and a seismic model.