Publications

The results of two 3D Finite Difference (FD) Acoustic Models based on the geology and structure common to Bintuni Bay, Irian Jaya have been interpreted. The FD models were built to help understand which subsurface components have the greatest adverse impact on the generally poor quality seismic images. The models were also built to understand the impact seismic acquisition geometries (i.e. narrow vs. wide azimuth) may have on the ability to image clastic reservoirs below thick, karstified carbonates, and shallow gas. The details of the FD model building are discussed separately in Part I. A total of 16 prestack depth migrated synthetic seismic volumes derived from the two completed FD models were analyzed. Two subsurface features significantly impact the image quality at the target depth: depth to the top of the massive carbonates, and karsting. The analysis also shows that Wide Azimuth (WAZ) acquisition geometries capture significantly higher quality precarbonate subsurface images than Narrow Azimuth (NAZ) acquisition geometries, even if the WAZ acquisitions are decimated nearly 4 times from the chosen theoretical limit.The financial impact of this modeling study is potentially large by predicting the quality of the seismic image using various acquisition techniques and geometries, before committing to and acquiring seismic data. This is particularly important in an area such as Bintuni Bay, where notoriously poor seismic image quality and severe operational environments often require application of expensive acquisition techniques to achieve Appraisal and Development quality seismic images. The 3D FD modeling results will help balance cost, image quality, and expectations regarding future seismic acquisitions planned to meet Exploration, Appraisal, and Development needs.