FAULT AND FRACTURE MAPPING IN NIGER DELTA USING 3D SEISMIC DATA

This study focuses on the application of 3D seismic data and Petrel software for fault and fracture mapping in a selected subsurface area. Faults and fractures significantly influence fluid flow, reservoir compartmentalization, and hydrocarbon productivity, necessitating accurate mapping for effective exploration and resource management. Using 3D seismic data, the research employs advanced seismic attributes, such as coherence and curvature, alongside manual and automated interpretation techniques to identify and analyze geological discontinuities. The study also integrates seismic interpretations with petrophysical analyses to characterize hydrocarbon reservoirs, revealing critical insights into porosity, permeability, and fluid saturation.The results demonstrate that fault-assisted anticlinal structures dominate the study area, with a clear NE-SW structural trend, supported by the presence of growth and antithetic faults. The application of advanced seismic techniques facilitated the identification of hydrocarbon-rich zones, enhancing reservoir characterization and exploration strategies. Despite challenges like data resolution and geological complexity, the research underscores the effectiveness of integrating seismic attributes, automated detection tools, and geological modeling.This work provides a robust framework for fault and fracture mapping, offering valuable implications for hydrocarbon exploration, geothermal energy studies, and geohazard assessments, while recommending further enhancements through machine learning integration and broader validation across diverse geological settings.