Maximizing Value from Geosteering Efficiency by Integrating Real-Time Petrophysical Analysis
Authors: Kundu Ashish , Raza Taufique Ahmad , Deng Lichuan , Soliman Ahmed Mohamed , Elabsy Eslam , Zemiti Sarah , Alhammadi Alyazia 
Published: January 2023

Conventional geo-steering approach use raw logging measurements to define wellbore positioning within the reservoir while drilling. The geo-steering specialist usually compares real-time logs to modelled logs (GR/Density/Neutron/Resistivity) and the geological model is then adjusted to make real-time decisions to deliver the well objectives. This conventional method is applicable to most reservoir conditions. However, it may be insufficient or inappropriate in heterogeneous reservoirs or wells with complex geological settings, potentially resulting in wells being sub-optimally placed and reducing the value of reservoir sections in terms of productivity. This paper aims to showcase a Petrophysics-based Geo-steering approach to maximize the value of reservoir sections.

Geo-steering aims to place the well trajectory in the lithology with optimum storage capacity, flow capacity and hydrocarbon saturation. The method of log-to-log comparison is popular for its simplicity and speed of use in real-time but is not enough for certain scenarios. For example, the real-time log response can be very different from modelled log response in the presence of gas or very light oil, irrespective of petrophysical properties (porosity/permeability) being similar. Moreover, real-time Sw estimation would be required in addition to porosity to minimize the risk of drilling a producer into water bearing intervals. In fact, the comparison between petrophysical parameters is more appropriate to heterogeneous reservoirs or wells with complicated geology. This approach requires good co-ordination between geologist, petrophysicist and geo-steering specialist. Prior to drilling, the petrophysical model from offset wells should be defined and used to derive porosity, permeability and saturation. While drilling, the petrophysical properties are then interpreted in real-time and based on the comparison between modelled and real-time petrophysical properties, decisions are to be made with respect to the well objectives.

An example with strong gas effect in a carbonate reservoir from Abu Dhabi is presented to demonstrate this novel approach. Real-time density/neutron does not have good correlation with modelled density /neutron due to gas effect. Such poor correlation can be attributed to proximity to a Gas Oil Contact (GOC) and dynamic invasion, complicating the real-time geo-steering. However, real-time total porosity from log analysis correlates very well with modelled total porosity, providing confidence in wellbore positioning and allowing the geologist and the geo-steering specialist to make the correct real-time decision to place the well in the optimum stratigraphic position in order to meet the well objectives.

Only conventional logs are utilized in this case, but if real-time NMR and resistivity image interpretation are available, it will provide additional information in term of permeability, secondary porosity and irreducible water saturation to aid efficient geo-steering.