Improved characterisation and modelling of thinly-bedded, shallow-marine sandstone reservoirs

The reservoir properties and fluid flow dynamics of thinly-bedded sandstone and shale intervals within shallow marine reservoirs in the North Sea and elsewhere around the world are currently poorly understood. Consequently, the volume of hydrocarbons which is accessible, the rate at which these can be produced, and the optimum development strategy, are difficult to predict. Moreover, it is not clear how the intervals should be characterised using conventional core- and log-derived subsurface petrophysical measurements, or how they should be represented in static and dynamic models. Their contribution to field performance is thus poorly understood.

In this project, we will construct well constrained, detailed 3-D models of thinly-bedded, shallow marine sandstones directly from suitable analogue outcrops. The reservoir properties and fluid flow dynamics of the models will be analysed and quantified using a range of novel mathematical and numerical techniques, and methods for predicting them using conventional subsurface core- and log-derived measurements will be investigated. This innovative, multidisciplinary approach, combining detailed 3-D geological outcrop mapping with quantitative analysis, will be essential to understand how to properly characterise and model these complex reservoirs.

The project will provide improved understanding of thinly-bedded, shallow marine sandstone reservoir properties and fluid flow dynamics, and how these can be captured in both static and dynamic models. This will yield improved predictions of accessible hydrocarbon volumes and production rates. The results will be applicable to shallow-marine reservoirs in the North Sea and elsewhere around the world.

See the attached document ‘Case for Support’ for further details of the scientific case, aims and objectives, deliverables, and scope of work.

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