REVIEW OF PROGRESSES IN SEISMIC FLAT SPOT TECHNOLOGY

As a direct hydrocarbon detection method, the flat spot technology may provide effective evidence for reservoir prediction and fluid interface recognition. The difference of impedance between different fluids leads to flat spot reflections. AVO characteristics, well matched to the strong amplitude and structural contour, provide strong evidence for fluid interfaces. Seismic reflection features are the most direct and effective evidence for identification of flat spot. Up to date, a number of large-scale oil and gas reservoirs have been found in the world by application of flat spot technology. Of course, there are "traps" in the application of flat spot technology, such as the false appearance of seismic data, non-reservoir factors caused illusion of flat spot and non-horizontal fluid interfaces due to changes in velocity and pressure. Therefore, it is suggested that flat spot technology be applied upon the basis of comprehensive analysis of geology and geophysics, and enhancing high fidelity, signal-to-noise ratio and seismic resolution together with other hydrocarbon detection methods. Application of multi-wave and multi-component technology is also recommended.