High-Resolution Sequence Stratigraphy (Brazil)

A Mesoproterozoic sedimentary succession crops out in Chapada Diamantina, one of the most beautiful National Park in Brazil. Strata are superbly exposed/preserved and the sedimentary rocks still exhibit primary structures. Field work is supported by photo mosaics, GR logs, and GPR data. All data from outcrops collected by attendees will be used in-class through stratigraphic correlation exercises.

Oil & Gas Industry today employs a broad range of advanced, cutting-edge software tools for geophysical processing & interpretation, geological modelling, and flow simulation & history matching. However, if not combined with the right stratigraphic interpretation and modelling skills, the use of these tools alone is not enough to protect business.
Frequently, misrepresented or neglected geological features may jeopardize asset value by generating reservoir flow models with poor predictability or inability to match production history. One of the main factors impacting the quality of the geological characterization is the stratigraphic compartmentalization of a reservoir, which is effectively addressed through sequence stratigraphy. Accurate sequence stratigraphic framework contributes to reliable hydrocarbon volume calculations, to the correct assessment of reservoir continuity and compartmentation, and to the representative distribution of facies and their petro-physical properties in 3D volumes, to name but a few examples.

Upon completion of this course, attendees are expected to:

• Master the principles, concepts, and the method of sequence stratigraphy;
• Assess the quality of available data, integrate different sources of information, and qualitatively examine uncertainties related to the interpretation of high-resolution sequence stratigraphy framework;
• Understand the impact of high-resolution sequence stratigraphy on 3D geological and flow modelling, and how to adjust those models to the historic observed production data;
• Incorporate the method of high-resolution sequence stratigraphy on their 3D geological and flow modelling routines to support reservoir management and implementation of production development projects.

Learning-by-doing, based on extensive in-class exercises and a field trip. Participants will grasp the method of sequence stratigraphy that will enable them to use it on their daily office routine, no matter the modelling platforms their Company adopts.

Each participant is required to provide a yearly medical certificate before attending this field course. Also, participants must wear sturdy shoes (suitable for pebbly and rocky paths) and bring clothing for hot day time temperatures (sun hat, sun glasses, etc.).

Day 1: Arrival in Lençóis, Bahia, Brazil. Classroom activity: welcome and agenda.
Day 2: Classroom activities: lectures and preparation to field trips.
Day 3: Field trip: Estuarine, fluvial settings. Outcrop description, interpretation of stacking patterns and sequence stratigraphic surfaces, data integration.
Day 4: Field trip: Aeolian setting. Outcrop description, interpretation of stacking patterns and sequence stratigraphic surfaces, data integration.
Day 5: Field trip: Shallow marine, estuarine, fluvial settings. Outcrop description, interpretation of stacking patterns and sequence stratigraphic surfaces, data integration.
Day 6: Field trip: Stratigraphic correlation.
Day 7: Classroom activities: exercises and closing.
Day 8: Departure from Lençóis, Bahia, Brazil