Assessing Geological Deformation Using Distributed Fiber Optic Sensing

Abstract

AbstractThis work presents a conceptual framework for assessing geological deformation using distributed fiber optic sensing that is applicable to several common sources of strain encountered during the reservoir lifecycle. Common applications include strain associated with seismic and aseismic fault motion, natural and hydraulic fracture dilation and closure, as well as poro-elastic strain evolution during injection and production. We briefly review the main fiber-based techniques for recording geological sources of strain and highlight key deformation characteristics at different spatial and temporal resolutions. The relationships between common acquisition parameters such as spatial resolution, data sampling rate, ability to measure relative and absolute strain, and a priori knowledge of geological strain including the availability of baseline measurements are discussed. A few examples are shown from experimental studies at the Houston Aramco Research Center. Using these insights as a conceptual framework for assessing geological deformation leads to more informed decisions when planning distributed fiber optic sensing acquisitions and interpreting associated strain data.