Characterization of naturally fractured Arbuckle Group in the Wellington Field, Kansas, using S-wave amplitude variation with offset

Abstract

S-wave amplitude variation with offset (AVO) analysis is sensitive to the presence of fractures and can provide a high-resolution seismic-based fracture characterization as compared with traditionally used traveltime-based methods. To determine viable attributes for estimation of properties such as spatial density and fluid fill of fractures, S-wave AVO modeling and analysis is carried out in the Wellington Field, Kansas, where 9C-2D seismic data have been acquired. Analysis is performed on the Ordovician fractured-carbonate interval called the Arbuckle Group, which is being considered for [Formula: see text] sequestration. AVO modeling of the Arbuckle interval indicates that differences in AVO intercepts of different S-wave polarizations can estimate S-wave anisotropy parameter [Formula: see text], which gives an estimate of fracture density. In addition, modeling suggests that AVO gradients of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] waves can be used to derive a seismic attribute to discriminate fluid fill in fractures, provided good-quality S-wave gathers are available. The intercept anisotropy (IA) attribute obtained from AVO intercepts of S-waves provides fracture density estimates within the Arbuckle Group. These estimates are consistent with the field-wide, low-frequency observations from seismic velocities and spatially limited, high-frequency estimates obtained from drill cores and sonic and borehole-image logs. The IA attribute highlights possible high-permeability zones in the Upper and Lower Arbuckle suitable for [Formula: see text] injection. The Middle Arbuckle indicates low fracture density, potentially acting as a baffle to vertical flow and providing a seal for the Lower Arbuckle. The gradient anisotropy attribute obtained from the AVO gradient of S-waves suggests that most fractures in the Arbuckle are brine saturated. This attribute has a potential application in monitoring the movement of a [Formula: see text] plume in the Arbuckle Group when time-lapse data become available. These results demonstrate that S-wave AVO attributes can supplement the P-wave derived subsurface properties and significantly reduce uncertainties in subsurface fracture characterization.