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Modeling Controls on Fluvial Architecture from Outcrop Alexandre Turner. Fluvial Architecture: The three dimensional geometry, proportion, and spatial distribution of the various types of alluvial deposits in sedimentary basins. (Allen, 1978). Allen, 1965. Why study fluvial architecture? .
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Modeling Controls on Fluvial Architecture from Outcrop Alexandre Turner Fluvial Architecture: The three dimensional geometry, proportion, and spatial distribution of the various types of alluvial deposits in sedimentary basins. (Allen, 1978) Allen, 1965
Why study fluvial architecture? • Because fluvial packages in the subsurface are often prolific hydrocarbon producing reservoirs • - North Sea • - Frontier Formation (Wyoming) • - Williams Fork Formation (Colorado) Reservoirs are complicated!! Why build outcrop-based 3-D ‘truth models’ of fluvial deposits? • Driven by Economics • - Reduce Risk through more complete predictive models • - Maximize Efficiency by understanding static and dynamic components
What is known about the topic? • Short answer….A Lot! The Geology of Fluvial Deposits (A.D. Miall 1996) Dec. 8, 2011: Connectivity in Fluvial Systems – An AAPG E-Symposium Ongoing: Fluvial Stratigraphy – An AAPG E-Symposium Early 90s: John Bridge – Studying fluvial sandstone body dimensions Current: Matthew Pranter (CU Boulder) – Training image based modeling Current: M.J. Pyrcz (Chevron) – Has pioneered ‘rule-based’ modeling
What are the deficiencies in existing knowledge? How can I contribute? Fluvial Architecture is influenced by tectonics, climate, base levels, and channel types *How do these factors influence connectivity and can we quantify them?* For Example: The A/S ratio • Benefits of Outcrop • The study of three-dimensional fluvial architecture • can be enhanced by examining extensive exposures • (outcrops) • New/Emerging technologies and the availability of • these technologies can greatly enhance outcrop studies • LiDAR • Gigapans • Software (Petrel, GOCAD)
What are the main elements of this study? What is the significance of this study? Qualitative Sedimentology/Stratigraphy and Building a Quantitative Model 1. Build a ‘Truth Model’ for the Rock House Cove area - interpretation of outcrop faces - interpretation between: document uncertainty 2. *Quantitative Description* - predictive model 3. Connectivity Analysis…maybe - static component - streamline and fluid flow simulations Significance: Can we draw conclusion about how depositional processes impact fluvial connectivity and can we use this to build better and more complete predictive models. -Given sparse subsurface data (1-D) can this study give us some clues as to what is happening in 3-D connectivity.