Framework system and research flow of uncertainty in 3D geological structure models

Uncertainty in 3D geological structure models has become a bottleneck that restricts the development and application of 3D geological modeling.In order to solve this problem during periods of accuracy assessment,error detection and dynamic correction in 3D geological structure models,we have reviewed the current situation and development trends in 3D geological modeling.The main context of uncertainty in 3D geological structure models is discussed.Major research issues and a general framework system of uncertainty in 3D geological structure models are proposed.We have described in detail the integration of development practices of 3D geological modeling systems,as well as the implementation process for uncertainty evaluation in 3D geological structure models.This study has laid the basis to build theoretical and methodological systems for accuracy assessment and error correction in 3D geological models and can assist in improving 3D modeling techniques under complex geological conditions.

Three-Dimensional Structural Modelling and Source Rock Evaluation of the Quseir Formation in the Komombo Basin,Egypt

The Quseir Formation consists mainly of dark gray mudstones with a high organic matter content and excellent hydrocarbon-generating potential.The main objectives of this study are to highlight the dominant structural elements in the Komombo Basin,Egypt,and evaluate the geochemical characteristics of the Quseir Formation.Depth maps and a 3 D structural model indicate two normal fault trends NW–SE and ENE–WSW.The NW–SE trend is the dominant one that created the primary half-graben system.The depth to the top of the Quseir Formation gradually decreases from the eastern and central parts towards the corners of the basin.The thickness of the Quseir Formation ranges from about 300 to 1000 ft.The 3 D facies model shows that the shale has a large probability distribution in the study area,compared with the sandstone and siltstone.The source rock potential varies between good in the western part to very good in the eastern part of the basin.The organic-rich interval is dominated by gas-prone kerogen type III based on TOC and Rock-Eval.The pyrolysis data vitrinite reflectance(%Ro)(0.5–0.74%)and Tmax values(406–454 C°)suggest a maturity level that ranges from immature to early maturity stage for hydrocarbon generation.

Three-dimensional modeling and porosity calculation of coal rock pore structure

Coal rock is a type of dual-porosity medium,which is composed of matrix pores and fracture-cutting matrix.They play different roles in the seepage and storage capacity of coal rock.Therefore,constructing the micropore structure of coal rock is very important in the exploration and development of coalbed methane.In this study,we use a coal rock digital core and three-dimensional modeling to study the pore structure of coal rock.First,the micropore structure of coal rock is quantitatively analyzed using a two-dimensional thin-section image,and the quantitative information of the pore and fracture(cleat)structure in the coal rock is extracted.The mean value and standard deviation of the face porosity and pore radius are obtained using statistical analysis.The number of pores is determined using dichotomy and spherical random-packing methods based on compression.By combining with the results of the petrophysical analysis,the single-porosity structure model of the coal rock is obtained using a nonequal-diameter sphere to represent the pores of the coal rock.Then,an ellipsoid with an aspect ratio that is very much lesser than one is used to represent the fracture(cleat)in the coal rock,and a dual-pore structure model of the coal rock is obtained.On this basis,the relationship between the different pore aspect ratios and porosity is explored,and a fitting relationship is obtained.The results show that a nonlinear relationship exists between them.The relationship model can provide a basis for the prediction of coal rock pore structure and the pore structure parameters and provide a reference for understanding the internal structure of coalbed methane reservoirs.

Using structure restoration maps to comprehensively identify potential faults and fractures in compressional structures

Faults and fractures of multiple scales are frequently induced and generated in compressional structural system. Comprehensive identification of these potential faults and fractures that cannot be distinguished directly from seismic profile of the complex structures is still an unanswered problem. Based on the compressional structural geometry and kinematics theories as well as the structural interpretation from seismic data, a set of techniques is established for the identification of potential faults and fractures in compressional structures. Firstly, three-dimensional(3D) patterns and characteristics of the faults directly interpreted from seismic profile were illustrated by 3D structural model. Then, the unfolding index maps, the principal structural curvature maps, and tectonic stress field maps were obtained from structural restoration. Moreover, potential faults and fractures in compressional structures were quantitatively identified relying on comprehensive analysis of these three maps. Successful identification of the potential faults and fractures in Mishrif limestone formation and in Asmari dolomite formation of Buzurgan anticline in Iraq demonstrates the applicability and reliability of these techniques.

Evaluation of urban underground space resources using a negative list method: Taking Xi'an City as an example in China

Utilization of urban underground space has become a vital approach to alleviate the strain on urban land resources,and to optimize the structure and pattem of the city.It is also very important to improve the city environment,build livable city and increase the capacity of the city.Based on the analysis of existing evaluation methods and their problems,a method for evaluating underground space resources based on a negative list of adverse factors affecting underground space development is proposed,to be primarily used in urban planning stages.A list of the adverse factors is established,including limiting factors,constraining factors and influencing factors.Taking Xi'an as an example,using a geographical information system platform,a negative list of adverse factors for the underground space resources in Xi'an City are evaluated,and preventive measures are proposed.Natural resources,exploitable resources,and the potential growth of exploitable underground space resources are evaluated.Underground space assessment in the different development stages of the city,collaborative utilization and safety evaluation for multiple subsurface resources,environmental impact and assessment,as well as evaluation methods based on big data and intelligent optimization algorithms are all discussed with the aim of serving city planning and construction.

Proposal of a probabilistic assessment of structural collapse concomitantly subject to earthquake and gas explosion

In recent decades, many public buildings, located in seismic-prone residential areas, had to grapple with abnormal loads against which the structures were unguarded. In this piece of research, an ordinary three dimensional reinforced concrete building is selected as case study. The building is located in an earthquake-prone region; however, it is designed according to seismic building codes. Yet, it is not shielded against abnormal loads, such as blasts. It is assumed that the building suffers a blast load, due to mechanical/thermal installation failure during or after intense seismic oscillations. These two critical incidents are regarded codependent and compatible. So the researchers developed scenarios and tried to assess different probabilities for each scenario and carried out an analysis to ensure if progressive collapse had set in or not. In the first step, two analysis models were used for each scenario; a non-linear dynamic time history analysis and a blast local dynamic analysis. In the second step, having the structural destructions of the first step in view, a pushdown analysis was carried out to determine the severity of progressive collapse and assess building robustness. Finally, the annual probability of structural collapse under simultaneous earthquake and blast loads was estimated and offered.