DESCRIPTION OF THE BAKKEN FORMATION’S ROCK PROPERTIES OF THE WILLISTON BASIN, NORTH DAKOTA

Date

2013-05

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Abstract

It is possible to determine rock properties by utilizing seismic inversion techniques. The inversion technique is the most frequently used, by which the seismic interpreters derive lithology and physical properties. In this study, the 2D pre-stack seismic data was obtained from the analysis of Ross Field of the Williston Basin located in North Dakota. The Williston Basin has been used as a production area for numerous years, which makes this particular area one of importance, since there has been an increase in production using hydraulic fracturing and horizontal wells. The relationship between rock properties and well performance is very important in this kind of unconventional reservoir. The lateral changes in rock properties are also important to determine well locations. Via AVO analysis and inversion, rock properties were observed in the unconventional reservoir. The Bakken Formation is one of the main hydrocarbon-prone formations in the Williston Basin. This formation has generated approximately 200 to 400 billion barrels of oil and boasts a low permeability system. Three distinct members (the Upper Shale Member, the Middle Mixed lithology Member, and the Lower Shale Member) are present in this location and in this study. The Bakken Formation members have been analyzed according to their physical properties, obtained by inversion and LMR cross-plotting methods.

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Keywords

North Dakota, Bakken, AVIO, Inversion, Processing

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