Application of ColchisFM Forward Modeling Software in Identifying Reef-Shoal Complexes in the Right Bank of the Amu Darya Block

来源: | Author: Colchis Petro | Release Time: 2025-04-03 | 24 次浏览 | 分享到:

Recently, we had the privilege of providing technical support for ColchisFM forward modeling software to fellow experts in the field. Each exchange has been incredibly insightful—not only have we helped solve challenges, but we have also gained valuable knowledge in the process. We truly enjoy this mutual learning experience!

Today, while introducing the application of ColchisFM Forward Modeling Software in Identifying Reef-Shoal Complexes in the Right Bank of the Amu Darya Block, we will also summarize and address several common questions raised by our peers. We hope this will be helpful to others who are interested in ColchisFM software.

Peer 1: I would really like to be able to load a captured section image as a background so that we can easily draw the structural model. Is this feature available now?

Peer 2: How can I display the defined layer velocities on the section?

Peer 3: I want to see a more detailed wavefield similar to the real section. Do I need to perform pre-stack forward modeling? After pre-stack forward modeling, do I also need to perform pre-stack time migration? Is it complicated?

1. Digitalizing Cross-Section Images and Modeling with ColchisFM

In ColchisFM, not only can users construct geological models using their “artistic talent” (i.e., geological interpretation), but they can also directly drag and drop existing cross-section images into the software or click the “Image Import” icon on the left toolbar to load model images from research papers (Figure 1, left). This also applies to seismic section images.

The model used in this case represents a typical reef-shoal complex in the central region of the Right Bank of the Amu Darya Block (cited from Li Xianghua et al., “Comprehensive Prediction of Deep-Water Low-Energy Gentle Slope Reef-Shoal Distribution in the Right Bank of the Amu Darya Block”). By overlaying the image, users can interpret horizons and establish models just like in seismic interpretation. Peer 1’s question: Resolved!

The right panel of Figure 1 displays the reef-shoal complex velocity model built using ColchisFM. The resemblance is uncanny—it’s practically identical! In this model, the red zone represents bioherms with a P-wave velocity of 5550 m/s, while the carbonate reservoir has a P-wave velocity of 5300 m/s. A thin gamma mudstone caprock, with a P-wave velocity of 4800 m/s, is developed above the reservoir.

Pro Tip: The text annotations in the figure were not inserted via PowerPoint—ColchisFM supports in-software labeling. Peer 2’s question: solved!

2. Analysis of Seismic Response Characteristics

ColchisFM enables real-time linkage between model building and seismic forward modeling, facilitating model adjustments. In this case, a wavelet with a dominant frequency of 25 Hz was used to generate post-stack forward modeling results (Figure 2).

By comparing the post-stack forward modeling results (Figure 2) with actual seismic sections (Figure 3), several key features are identified:

Label 1: The left boundary tuning point of the reef-shoal complex.
Label 2: Layered reflections within the reef-shoal complex.
Label 3: The uplifted reflection at the top of the reef-shoal complex.
Label 4: The right boundary tuning point of the reef-shoal complex.

ColchisFM provides a one-click solution for pre-stack wave-equation forward modeling and pre-stack time migration. A pre-stack forward modeling run was performed on this reef-shoal complex geological model (Figure 4). This reef-shoal complex belongs to the mound-shaped category. Its bottom-flat, top-convex mound features, weak internal layering, and boundary tuning effects are well depicted. By comparing these results with actual seismic data, one can effectively identify reef-shoal complex boundaries, internal structures, and other key geological features, reducing uncertainty in seismic interpretation. Peer 3’s question: addressed!

By leveraging seismic forward modeling, the characteristic seismic reflection patterns of reef-shoal complexes can be effectively identified. With its user-friendly post-stack forward modeling and one-click pre-stack forward modeling features, ColchisFM offers broad applications in carbonate reservoir exploration.