Subsurface Interpretation and Modelling (GEO505)
This course provides skills to analyse and interpret subsurface geophysical and geological data, to construct three-dimensional structural models, and to use outcrop analogues to understand tectonic controls in sedimentation for reservoirs at the macro scale (meter to kilometre). Students will interpret worldwide case studies using leading-edge software used in the energy sector. The skills learned in this course have great applicability in the energy industry for hydrocarbon exploration and production, geothermal resources, energy transition, CO2 sequestration, and other field areas.
The course is divided into three parts: 1) an interpretation project with detailed subsurface mapping; 2) construction of three-dimensional structural models and related uncertainty; and 3) a field excursion to a subsurface analogue for field mapping and computer modelling.
Course description for study year 2024-2025
Course code
GEO505
Version
1
Credits (ECTS)
10
Semester tution start
Spring
Number of semesters
1
Exam semester
Spring
Language of instruction
English
Content
Course topics include:
- Software introduction,
- Overview of subsurface interpretation techniques,
- Overview of syn-rift tectonic models and seismic interpretation in rift settings,
- Three-dimensional structural modelling, and
- Geological field mapping focusing on lateral variation of facies and structural elements at the macro scale.
Learning outcome
Knowledge:
- Knowledge of seismic interpretation techniques.
- Knowledge about seismic stratigraphy, tectonics, and sedimentation.
- Knowledge about the workflow and importance of building 3D structural models.
- Knowledge about modelling uncertainty and the importance of building multiple scenarios.
Skills:
- Interpret seismic and well log data.
- Integrate different geological and geophysical data to understand subsurface.
- To incorporate analogues into seismic interpretation and models to improve facies prediction and to understand seismic-scale elements and geometries.
- To build 3D structural models.
- To map regional geological structures.
- To use leading edge interpretation/modelling software.
- To evaluate uncertainty and include it in the interpretation/geomodelling process.
General competence:
- To communicate effectively about the different techniques for subsurface interpretation, 3D structural models, and their associated uncertainty.
- To be able to use subsurface interpretation techniques to take decisions for petroleum exploration/production/development, to optimize available resources in the energy sector.
Required prerequisite knowledge
Exam
Oral exams and report
| Form of assessment | Weight | Duration | Marks | Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oral exam 1 | 35/100 | 15 Minutes | Letter grades | All |
| Oral exam 2 | 35/100 | 15 Minutes | Letter grades | All |
| Report | 30/100 | Letter grades | All |
A field excursion is part of the course. Students who are not able to attend the field excursion will get an alternative assignment with a similar complexity level and equivalent time-demanding assignment based on the excursion. All assessment parts must be passed to obtain a final grade in the course. If a student wants to improve his/her grade, he/she can retake the course again the next time the course is offered. There are no re-sit opportunities for this course.
Course teacher(s)
Course coordinator:
Xiaoan ZhongCourse teacher:
Christopher TownsendStudy Program Director:
Lisa Jean WatsonStudy Adviser:
Karina SanniHead of Department:
Alejandro Escalona VarelaMethod of work
- 2-4 hours teaching, seminars, or discussion sessions.
- 4-8 hours lab exercises and individual work.
- One-week field excursion.
Overlapping courses
| Course | Reduction (SP) |
|---|---|
| Seismic Interpretation (GEO600_1) | 5 |
| 3D Geomodelling (GEO540_1) | 5 |
