Evaluation of 3D shear-wave anisotropy based on elastic-wave velocity variations around the borehole

Abstract

Aligned fractures/cracks in rocks are a primary source of elastic anisotropy. In an azimuthally anisotropic formation surrounding a borehole, shear waves split into fast and slow waves that propagate along the borehole and are recorded by a borehole logging tool. However, when the formation has conjugate fractures with orthogonal strike directions, the azimuthal anisotropy vanishes. Hence, azimuthal anisotropy measurements may not be adequate to detect orthogonal fracture sets. We develop a method for obtaining azimuthal and radial shear-wave anisotropy parameters simultaneously from four-component array waveforms. The method utilizes a velocity tomogram around the borehole. Azimuthal and radial anisotropy were determined by integrating shear velocity radiation profile along the radial direction at different azimuthal angles. Results indicate that this approach is reliable for estimating anisotropy properties in aligned crack systems. The advantage of this interpretation method is shown in multiple conjugate crack systems. Field data processing examples are used to verify the application of the proposed technique. Comparison of results against those obtained with a conventional procedure shows that the new method can not only provide estimates of azimuthal anisotropy, but also of the radial anisotropy parameter, which is important in fracture network evaluation.