Identifying the play fairway where reservoir, charge and seal coincide is a key step ahead of detailed prospectivity mapping.  Play based exploration can be used to focus efforts on areas believed to be most prospective.  Analysis of the well data allows the development of chronostratigraphic framework and identification of the play elements. Available well and seismic data are then interpreted and incorporated with existing knowledge to create relevant GDE, CRS and structural maps.

Ensuring Accurate Petroleum System Mapping for Increased Certainty

Three elements define a play fairway; potential reservoir facies, a probable caprock and the presence nearby of a hydrocarbon source.
The results of Play Fairway Analysis provide the foundation for an exploration campaign within a basin.

Analysis Inputs

The inputs to a Play Fairway Analysis come from seismic and well data. In an under-explored basin, limited well data is available, so seismic data is predominantly used. As more wells are drilled, the data from these wells will be used to modify the analysis.

Each risk element, reservoir, source and seal is mapped to demonstrate its probable presence or absence. These risks are then combined to provide a common risk segment map that shows the overall perceived risk across the whole fairway. 

TGS - Play Fairway Analysis - Geological Interpretive Products-1
TGS - Play Fairway Analysis - Dry Hole Analysis

Play Fairway Analysis Experience

We have completed Play Fairway Analyses across basins in:

  • Brazil
  • East Canada
  • UK Atlantic Margin

In addition, we have completed a Dry Hole Analysis in Norway to define the reasons for the failure of dry exploration wells.