Fracture permeability estimation using seismic attenuation

• Applicant: Dr. Tobias Müller
• Subject Area: Geophysics
• Term: from 2006 to 2009
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 24470300

Natural fractures control the permeability of aquifers or oil reservoirs, and hence the ability to find and characterize fractured areas represents a major challenge for seismic investigations. One of the main issues in the characterization of any reservoir is the ability to predict the effect of fluids on elastic properties. In fractured porous reservoirs the effect of the saturating fluid on elastic properties is complex, as fluids affect elastic anisotropy of the rock. The existence of scales caused by fractures and fluid flow in such heterogeneous porous media are the reasons for dispersion and attenuation of seismic waves. The aim of this project is to develop a theoretical model for the complete description of the effective elastic properties and a method for estimation of fracture permeability. The model is based on Biot s theory of poroelasticity and fractures are modeled as highly compliant heterogeneties. Applying methods for the wave propagation in heterogeneous porous materials, attenuation and dispersion, caused by wave-induced fluid flow between pores and fractures is quantified. This yields to the estimation of fracture and background permeability, which will be validated on field data from a carbonate aquifer. Outcomes from our proposed methodology can significantly help in planning and decision making in drilling, which is one of the most expensive parts of water and hydrocarbon exploration.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants