Geophysics for Petroleum Engineers: Chapter 9. Geophysics for Unconventional Resources

Fred Aminzadeh · Shivaji N. Dasgupta

Dec 2013 · Developments in Petroleum Science Book 60 · Elsevier Inc. Chapters

About this ebook

Geophysical methods are being applied that are specifically relevant to the exploration of and production from unconventional reservoirs. While many of the techniques have common applications for both conventional and unconventional reservoirs, there are also some significant differences in focus. Much of the unconventional reservoirs are from shale formations. Characterizing of fracture system in such reservoirs is of prime importance not only to identify the “sweet spots” for well placement but also for optimum drilling and production from such fractured reservoirs. Combining conventional and microearthquake seismic data has proven to improve the characterization process. Another factor for drilling through shale reservoirs is the need for stimulation through hydraulic fracturing. Use of microseismic data for monitoring the frac process has gained prominence in recent years. Different types of design to acquire such geophysical data and to utilize them for multistage fracking process as well as their integration with the conventional seismic data have been developed.