Identification of pay zones using compressional wave velocity and shear wave velocity data in sandstone reservoirs

G. M. Hamada*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Sonic travel time of compressional wave is generally used as porosity tool for given lithology. Introducing shear wave travel time is very helpful in determining mechanical rock properties. It is found that compressional wave is sensitive to the saturating fluid type. The use of the ratio of compressional wave velocity to shear wave velocity" Vp/Vs" is a good tool in identifying fluid type. The fact that compressional wave velocity decreases and shear wave velocity increases with the increase of light hydrocarbon saturation, makes the ratio of Vp/Vs more sensitive to change of fluid type than the use of Vp or Vs separately. Field examples are given to identify fluids type (water, oil and gas) using the Vp/Vs ratio. Field examples have shown that shear travel time decreases while compressional travel time increases when the water saturated points become gas or light oil saturated points in the studied sections. The decrease of shear travel time (increase of shear wave velocity) is due to the decrease of density and the absorption of deformation by free gas in pores. The increase of compressional travel time (decrease of compressional wave velocity) is due to the decrease of bulk modulus of reservoir rocks which compensates the decrease of rock density.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationSociety of Petroleum Engineers - SPE Saudi Arabia Section Technical Symposium 2007
PublisherSociety of Petroleum Engineers
ISBN (Print)9781555639600
DOIs
StatePublished - 2007

Publication series

NameSociety of Petroleum Engineers - SPE Saudi Arabia Section Technical Symposium 2007

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2007 Society of Petroleum Engineers.

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geochemistry and Petrology
  • Energy Engineering and Power Technology
  • Fuel Technology

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