From outcrop analogue to full-field fracture model: the importance of multi-scale fracture size-intensity relationships
We present new datasets from fractured carbonates measured across multiple scales, acquired using a combination of different methods, from surface outcrops of Cenozoic and Mesozoic reservoir units from the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. We use these data to illustrate the importance of characterising the scaling relationship of fracture size vs. fracture intensity, in order to…
Read MoreRobust best-fit planes from geospatial data
Total least squares regression is a reliable and efficient way to analyze the geometry of a bestfit plane through georeferenced data points. The suitability of the input data, and the goodness of fit of the data points to the best-fit plane are considered in terms of their dimensionality, and they are quantified using two parameters…
Read MoreNatural seismogenic pumping processes in near surface fractured basement gneisses
The fluid transport and storage properties of fractured crystalline rocks are relevant to understanding water and hydrocarbon resources and potential containment of radioactive materials and carbon dioxide. Crystalline lithologies have virtually non-existent primary porosity therefore any porosity and permeability is secondary, originating from fractures and/or surface weathering. Here, we report upon a study on the…
Read MoreLIDAR Technology application for outcrop to subsurface reservoir study of Oman Interior
The Amin sandstone is a primary reservoir target of the Haima Supergroup (Vendian -Cambrian) for a Tight Gas Play for the Non-Associated Gas exploration in the Fahud Salt Basin, onshore Oman. Recent development in Tight Gas exploration in Oman have focused on possible fractured reservoirs of the Haima Supergroup. However, uncertainty remains in mapping and…
Read MoreFracture Characterisation in Shales for Efficient Development
In unconventional hydrocarbon plays, shales can act as a seal, source rock and reservoir. Characterising the geometry and kinematics of natural fracture systems within shales is a critical step in understanding reservoir geomechanics, optimising well plans, and predicting induced seismicity. Efficiency of fluid injection to induce hydraulic fracturing in a low permeability unit is enhanced…
Read MoreImproved Multi-Scale Fracture Models based on Quantitative Analysis of Outcrop Analogues
Characterisation of fracture systems from surface exposures provides critical constraints when developing a Conceptual Fracture Model. Analysing naturally fractured outcrops using a combination of traditional field methods and new geospatial technologies provides robust fracture data at multiple scales, and allows the likely range of values for fracture parameters to be quantified. Key technologies include terrestrial…
Read MoreStructural evolution of the Jebel Hafeet Anticline (Al Ain, UAE): A multi-scale approach to model fracture patterns and kinematic fold evolution
Conceptual, physical and numerical models have attempted to predict the fracture patterns from various fold shapes and kinematics, but so far these models remain poorly predictive in terms of spatial and temporal distribution of fractures. These models are crucial for reservoir characterization studies. Therefore, more detailed field-based data are required to better constrain 3D models…
Read More3D characterization of fracture systems using Terrestrial Laser Scanning: an example from the Lewisian basement of NW Scotland
Slip distributions on active normal faults measured from LiDAR and field mapping of geomorphic offsets: an example from L’Aquila, Italy, and implications for modelling seismic moment release
Surface slip distributions for an active normal fault in central Italy have been measured using terrestrial laser scanning (TLS), in order to assess the impact of changes in fault orientation and kinematics when modelling subsurface slip distributions that control seismic moment release. The southeastern segment of the surface trace of the Campo Felice active normal…
Read MoreThe tectonic geomorphology of bedrock scarps on active normal faults in the Italian Apennines mapped using combined ground penetrating radar and terrestrial laser scanning.
Using combined datasets from ground penetrating radar (GPR) and terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) we document the variety of tectono-geomorphic features that contribute to the morphology of bedrock scarps associated with active extensional faulting in central Italy. Measurement of faulted offsets across such scarps can provide important fault slip-rate data relevant to seismic hazard analysis if…
Read More