SRT-Ai: Identifying seismic reflection terminations using deep learning

Seismic stratigraphy entails a regional scanning (reconnaissance) of seismic data to identify and annotate seismic reflection terminations. To identify these terminations in modern 3D seismic datasets, interpreters have to examine thousands of inlines and crosslines, which is a time-consuming process. Furthermore, accurate identification of these features relies heavily on human visual observation along with individual expertise. A growing number of studies have shown promising results applying machine learning techniques to identify geological features from seismic data such as salt bodies and faults. However, the identification of seismic reflection terminations has not received the same level of interest and remains a manual process. One of the barriers to utilizing machine learning techniques in seismic interpretation is the lack of “labelled” data. In this study, we evaluate the ability of deep learning Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) trained on synthetic seismic images to identify seismic reflection terminations. A dataset comprising 160 000 synthetic seismic images that represent conformable and four types of seismic reflection terminations (truncation, toplap, onlap, and downlap) were created using geometric geological modelling and 1D convolution seismic modelling. The dataset was then split into two classes (“Contains Termination” and “No Termination”). A new CNN model architecture named “Seismic Reflection Terminations Attribute (SRT-Ai)” was trained on 80% of the synthetic seismic dataset. SRT-Ai predicted the test set (remaining 20%) with an accuracy and precision of 99.9%. To test its generalization, SRT-Ai was also evaluated on real seismic images, achieving 91% accuracy and 96% precision against published interpretations used as reference labels. Qualitative analysis of predictions along seismic sections shows a strong correspondence between the model predictions and manual regional interpretations. SRT-Ai is proposed as a screening tool that will assist seismic interpreters with the identification of major seismic terminations, minimise seismic interpretation uncertainties, reduce the time taken for seismic reconnaissance, and limit the reliance on human visual observation at the early stage of seismic interpretation process. • SRT-Ai is a step toward automating seismic stratigraphic interpretation using deep learning. • Training synthetic data to predict seismic terminations is an efficient approach. • Synthetic data solves the issues of human bias, consistency, and time associated with manual labelling. • SRT-Ai identifies seismic reflection terminations with minimal human intervention.