Q-Compensation from Near Surface to Reservoir and Below: Case Study from Onshore Abu Dhabi

Interest in quantitative interpretation (QI) of seismic data in the Abu Dhabi region continues to steadily increase, and the objective of creating inversion-ready seismic data is driving evolution of the surface seismic data processing workflows to focus on more detailed and thorough handling of the amplitude and phase throughout processing (pre-, during, and post-imaging). To achieve close well ties across the survey and to ensure the data is suitable for interpretation purposes, zero-phasing and wavelet stability (along with using well information during earth model building) are key stages in the depth imaging seismic processing workflow. Accurate amplitude with offset and azimuth handling is also required for inversion studies. In this paper, we propose a workflow where a geophysically and geologically credible, 3D variable Q-field is built into the earth model early in the processing flow, allowing a more complete approach to handling the Q-effects of the subsurface without increasing project turnaround time. This case study shows that a data-driven spatially variable Q-field combined with Kirchhoff Pre-Stack Depth migration compensates effectively for both amplitude and phase effects, providing a broadband image with improved event continuity and better handling of noise compared with applying a constant pre-migration Q-compensation (which was previously thought to be suitable for this low-relief region). By calibrating the variable Q-field to available well logs and near surface information, and ensuring that the different geophysical parameters in the earth model are all suitably coupled, an enhanced image is achieved which then requires minimal spectral shaping or residual phase corrections post migration. Ray-based Q-tomography workflows allow iterative 3D updates alongside coupled subsurface properties like anisotropy and velocity, within a high-resolution Earth model suitable for depth imaging. Reliable phase stability, higher resolution, broader useable bandwidth and improved amplitude preservation are key targets of this holistic approach.