Applications

Challenge

Shell wanted to know whether to invest in an exploration licence and deepwater drilling in a block where a large exploration prospect had been identified.

A seismic amplitude extraction indicated that the prospect may be an elongated channel with a combination structural/stratigraphic trap. However, the seismic studies were inconclusive.

Application

A seabed-logging survey was acquired over the prospect before Shell committed to the block.

Result

No anomaly was recorded by the seabed-logging survey. Shell has confidence in the method and it used this evidence in the decision not to acquire a license and pursue the prospect, which would have involved considerable licence and drilling costs.

The flat seabed-logging response over the prospect, helped Shell to make the decision not to invest in a licence and deepwater drilling in this instance. The seabed-logging data enabled Shell to focus its resources on more promising prospects.