Abstract - A key issue in geological model definition for hydrocarbon production and exploration evaluations is the accurate definition and modelling of the growth, geometry and flow properties of faults. Concentrating on issues relating to the flow properties of normal faults that are detrimental to flow within clastic sequences, and using empirical constraints from outcrop and subsurface datasets, this talk describes: (i) the principal characteristics of the geometry and growth of fault zones, (ii) the main methods for predicting the hydraulic properties of fault rocks and (iii) newly developed methods for the inclusion of faults in reservoir production and hydrocarbon migration flow models. Reservoir and migration flow models are then used to highlight the main strengths, weaknesses and associated uncertainties of existing fault property and sealing predictions in both production and exploration studies.
Abstract of talk given to:
Norwegian Geological Society, Trondheim, September 2004
As part of the European Association of Geoscientists and Engineers (EAGE), Distinguished Lecturer Programme.