Integration of surface/subsurface techniques reveals faults in Gulf of Suez oilfields

ABSTRACT: Reservoir mapping in the Gulf of Suez petroleum system is challenging because rift-parallel and cross-rift faults disrupted the sediments, leaving the reservoirs confined to stratigraphic, structural, and combined traps. We have developed a technique to address this challenge that inte-grates fault outcrop mapping using satellite image interpretation, seismic near-surface characterization techniques such as Rayleigh wave velocity mapping and ray parameter interferometry, as well as ant tracking of faults and geobody delineation on a prestack time-migrated (PSTM) cube. The technique uses a combination of geographic information system (GIS) and geological modelling software such as Petrel for surface/subsurface integra-tion. The joint analysis of Rayleigh wave data with satellite imagery provides a near-surface structural geological model. The acquisition, processing, and interpretation of point-receiver seismic data enables the interpretation of near-surface geological structures. Detailed shallow structural geology can be imaged in the near surface, a data regime that is conventionally masked by the acquisition noise from the seismic acquisition. The shallow geological model comprises shallow lithological horizons as well as fault zones, the mapping of which may assist with the mitigation of shallow drilling risks. The integration of surface and subsurface structural mapping provides a tectonic framework for the delineation of reservoirs in the rift-faulted environment of the Gulf of Suez