Analysis and application of anisotropic crack prediction based on OVT domain wide azimuth seismic data

ShouYing DU, Lei SHI, LiYan ZHANG, Ang LI, HongKun ZHA

Prog Geophy ›› 2026, Vol. 41 ›› Issue (3) : 1151-1161.

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Prog Geophy ›› 2026, Vol. 41 ›› Issue (3) : 1151-1161. DOI: 10.6038/pg2026JJ0207

Analysis and application of anisotropic crack prediction based on OVT domain wide azimuth seismic data

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Abstract

With the rapid advancement of oil and gas exploration technologies, the precise prediction of small-scale fractures has become increasingly vital for optimizing reservoir development and improving overall production efficiency. Conventional fracture prediction methods are primarily designed to detect larger-scale fractures, which often results in insufficient accuracy and resolution, thereby failing to meet the rigorous demands for precise small-scale fracture prediction. In order to improve the accuracy of fracture prediction, this paper focuses on high-precision fracture prediction by leveraging OVT domain wide-azimuth seismic data, enabling detailed analysis of fracture networks and their spatial distribution. The research begins by generating high-quality azimuthal seismic data volumes using a comprehensive series of advanced processing techniques, ensuring precise and reliable inputs for subsequent fracture analysis and interpretation. Specifically, offset OVT gathers are systematically transformed into azimuth gathers, enabling detailed fracture analysis. This process involves meticulous noise prediction and suppression, amplitude variation with angle-guided compensation for accurate reflectivity, and partially stacking in azimuth to enhance signal clarity and improve the precision of fracture prediction. This meticulously designed workflow ensures the preservation of azimuthal anisotropy information, which is indispensable for effective fracture detection. Subsequently, the study quantitatively predicts fracture density and orientation by integrating coherence attributes with multi-azimuth amplitude attributes, further refined through ellipse fitting to improve accuracy and reliability in fracture characterization. This innovative approach adeptly captures subtle fracture networks by leveraging the azimuthal seismic response. The application of this methodology in the Hutan work area of Xinjiang has demonstrated its effectiveness in identifying small-scale fractures, with prediction results showing a high degree of consistency with imaging logging interpretations. By enhancing fracture characterization, including precise determination of fracture density and orientation, this approach supports optimized well placement and improved hydrocarbon recovery rates. successful implementation highlights its value in addressing the complexities of fractured reservoirs and advancing efficient hydrocarbon extraction. The research conclusively validates that anisotropic fracture prediction technology based on OVT domain data provides a reliable geophysical foundation for the design of drilling and development plans in fracture type oil and gas reservoirs, offering critical insights for reservoir management and production optimization.

Key words

Fracture prediction / OVT road collection / Partial stack / Ellipse fitting

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ShouYing DU , Lei SHI , LiYan ZHANG , et al . Analysis and application of anisotropic crack prediction based on OVT domain wide azimuth seismic data[J]. Progress in Geophysics. 2026, 41(3): 1151-1161 https://doi.org/10.6038/pg2026JJ0207

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