Abstract
The recognition of channels and their subsequent comprehensive analysis are pivotal aspects in the deployment of wells within a green field, and for effectively monitoring the performance of the reservoir. Nonetheless, the identification of channels within a carbonate reservoir often proves to be a challenging task through the sole utilization of seismic attributes. Furthermore, petrophysical properties are frequently deduced from a single source of data, which may lead to incomplete insights. It is of paramount importance to address the intricate shape and property of carbonate channels by employing a synergistic approach that integrates data from multiple sources and employs diverse approaches.
Within the scope of this research, a series of seismic attributes were employed to effectively delineate carbonate channels. A RGB color blending technology trials resulted in successful detection of multiple meandering bodies. The porosity measured from wireline logs and core analyses findings confirmed the presence of reservoir quality grainstone/floatstone fabrics within the incision geometry highlighted by the seismic attribute. Conversely, the depositional facies lying outside these channels exhibit substantial mudstone and wackestone intertidal origin, indicative of low reservoir quality. The integration of seismic and well data facilitated the quantification of channel dimensions, revealing the following parameters: width approximately 1 km, height ranging from 7 to 15 m, and lateral length 15 km at least. The integrated core analysis and description reveal that erosional surfaces with hardgrounds, coupled with an abundance of burrows, serve as the primary indicators of the channel incision base. The findings were incorporated into the regional and local sequence stratigraphic context, shedding light on how these channels formed in response to sea-level fluctuations. The unification of these critical properties and channel evolution interpretations facilitated the identification of analogues currently present in Arabian Plate.
Similar to fluvial channels, tidal channels are crucial for optimizing well placement, improving hydrocarbon reserve accuracy, and identifying preferred flow directions during FDP execution. According to few regional studies, Mishrif channels appear to be widely distributed throughout the Mesopotamian basin and beyond. While fluvial channels have a well-established history of application in reservoir characterization, the application of carbonate channels in field development is quite scarce, almost absent. Hence, companies involved in the development of the Mishrif or equivalent formations, particularly those in proximity to our study area, stand to benefit significantly from detecting and characterizing these channels. This information can play a crucial role in decision-making for hydrocarbon exploration and production.
