A Seismic Inversion Problem for an Anisotropic, Inhomogeneous Medium

Wheaton, Chad (2002) A Seismic Inversion Problem for an Anisotropic, Inhomogeneous Medium. Canadian Industrial Problem Solving Workshops > 6th IPSW [Vancouver 27/5/2002 - 31/5/2002].

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Abstract/Summary

In this report, we consider the propagation of seismic waves through a medium that can be subdivided into of two distinct parts. The upper part is assumed to be azimuthally symmetric, linearly nonuniform with increasing depth, and the velocity dependence with direction consistent with elliptical anisotropy. The lower part, which is the layer of interest, is assumed to also be azimuthally symmetric, but uniform and nonelliptically anisotropic. Despite nonellipticity, we assume the angular dependence of the velocity can be described by a convex curve.

Our goal is to produce a single source-single receiver model which uses modern seismic measurements to determine the elastic moduli of the lower media. Once known, geoscientists could better describe the angular dependence of the velocity in the layer of interest and also would have some clues at to the actual material composing it.

Item Type:	Study Group Report
Study Group:	Canadian Industrial Problem Solving Workshops > 6th IPSW [Vancouver 27/5/2002 - 31/5/2002]
Company Name:	Talisman Energy
Industrial Sector:	Energy and utilities
Additional Contributors:	Aruliah, Dhavide and Billings, Gary and Birukou, Mikalai and Dubash, Neville and Fairbairn, Leslie and Grossman, Jeff and Hegewisch, Katherine and Lee, Namyong and Swain, Robin and Slawinski, Michael and Trenado, Carlos
ID Code:	177
Deposited By:	Michele Taroni
Deposited On:	21 October 2008

Problem Statement

In the petroleum industry, many geoscientists rely on information provided by seismic data. Based on the interpretation of seismic data, geophysicists and geologists attempt to identify and target areas of economic importance, specifically hydrocarbon traps. We wish to extract from the data as much information as possible, and in particular are interested in measuring the physical properties of the rock through which seismic waves must propagate.

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