History of geophysical prospecting in petroleum upstream industry, and an outlook for its future

Abstract

Contributions of applied geophysics to petroleum exploration are discussed. We succinctly look over geophysical prospecting in exploration of structural and stratigraphic plays. Structural prospecting has been the rst, main concept for petroleum exploration through seismic imaging of subsurface. Stratigraphic prospecting was eventually successful as a by-product of structural exploration before digital seismics were introduced in 1960ʼs through 1970ʼs. Wireline logging provides us of basic data for our subsurface mapping and formation evaluation, and for calibration and improvement of quality of seismic processing.Geophysical prospecting was performed as; (1)gravity profiling in the latest 19th century, (2)single channel refraction and/or reflection profiling in late 1920ʼs through 1930ʼs,(3)multichannel reflection seismic sur vey to minimize noises by stacking CDP gathers during 1950ʼs, (4)analysis of subsurface seismic velocity data qualitatively de ning subsurface lithology and uid in 1960ʼs through 1970ʼs, (5)analyses of allostratigraphy and sedimentary facies in 1970ʼs, and(6)3D seismic surveys that lead detailed, regional paleogeology and de nition of stratigraphic plays in 1980ʼs through 1990ʼs.Seismic stratigraphy is a key in stratigraphic prospecting. We now can perform seismic geomorphology and reconstructive basin analysis based on 3D seismic data-cubes normally and inversely processed. 4D surveys represent changes of physical properties of subsurface formations through time.Future progress in the geophysical prospecting is expected in(1)combining of macro-and nano-surveys; that is, clarifying and solving enigmas in petroleum technology, e.g., primary migration of oil and gas, and ef cient development of shale resources.Human development in technological education and management system of human resources are also the keys for this progress. Multidisciplinary education of geology, applied geophysics is desired for effective performance in petroleum exploration and exploitation. High seismic resolution is required for not only structural imaging but also rock physical one.