Comprehensive seismic physical modeling study for carbonate reservoirs in Tarim area

Abstract Carbonate reservoirs in the Tarim area are characterized by diverse types, complex geological structures, and overlapping layers. As a result, capturing the seismic response characteristics in local areas is challenging, hindering defined analysis, model construction, and reservoir prediction owing to multiple influencing factors. Seismic forward physics is effective in characterizing specific wave fields. Seismic physical modeling technology allows for the modeling and analysis of the seismic response characteristics in carbonate reservoirs. In response to the challenges in the Tarim area, we designed a multi-type comprehensive physical model that included dolomite/limestone of various strata from the Yijianfang Formation to the Cambrian and six types of reservoir. The model formation, diverse reservoirs, and their distribution patterns were designed in the laboratory according to field seismic data. We analyzed and developed 11 suitable materials for modeling and their combinations based on the physical measurement results of rock cores. The “embedding method” and “overlapping pouring” improved the model development and construction. 3D seismic acquisition was conducted, and high-quality seismic data were obtained from building a model aligning with the field observation system. By analyzing the 3D post-stack profile, the response characteristics of various strata were relatively recognizable, and the response characteristics of reservoirs were more evident. We can use the high-quality, reliable 3D model seismic data and physical model to compare and analyze the seismic response characteristics of multiple carbonate reservoir types. This method greatly enhances the performance of seismic physical modeling of complex carbonate reservoirs, facilitating its application for evaluating diverse lithofacies and reservoirs commonly found in carbonate formations.