We present an efficient and accurate numerical algorithm for the simulation of borehole acoustic experiments. The basis of the approach is a heterogeneous spectral element method applied to acoustic-elastic wave equation. The approach was designed to simulate wave propagation in 3D arbitrary geometry. Due to the use of an unstructured grid and curvilinear element, the spectral element algorithm enables handling tools in a fluid-filled borehole with surrounding geological models of big complexity. We show the advantages of using curvilinear elements vs. linear elements for a simple sonic logging experiment. We illustrate the flexibility of the method by simulating the complex case of a vertical borehole illuminated by a sonic tool in a nearby horizontal well.
Presentation Date: Monday, October 15, 2018
Start Time: 1:50:00 PM
Location: 212A (Anaheim Convention Center)
Presentation Type: Oral
