Comparative analysis of 3D reservoir geologic modeling: A comprehensive review and perspectives

Abstract

The emergence and application of geological models have contributed to new assessment schemes for oil and gas reservoir development. The model simulates stratigraphic conditions and is used to implement and enhance the development scheme. This approach enables the simultaneous evaluation of multiple schemes, thereby increasing the resource utilization rates. Therefore, modeling is indispensable for studying the formation and development of hydrocarbon reservoirs. This study synthesized and analyzed diverse modeling methods, improvements, method combinations, and actual cases to propose an innovative modeling workflow. The proposed modeling workflow aimed to enhance the accuracy of geological models to guide subsequent reservoir development and utilization effectively. This workflow encompassed data processing, tectonic conditions (boundaries, cracks, faults, and stratigraphy), attribute conditions, and dynamic simulations. Additionally, the modeling methodology for different lithologies of the main reservoir was refined to accurately characterize various formations. This workflow provided recommendations for the current modeling of carbon dioxide (CO₂) sequestration, addressing subsurface sequestration and the impact of CO₂ sequestration on enhanced recovery in oil and gas reservoirs. The future development of geological modeling proposed an intelligent modeling theory based on automated and intelligent modeling technology that was further enhanced. Moreover, the geological model was envisioned to serve as a key component for monitoring smart oilfield operations, facilitating the full-scale intelligent management of such fields. This review could present new modeling workflows and two future model development concepts, with the objective of assisting scholars in their research endeavors and offering directions for future studies.