Deconvolving permeability from time-lapsed seismic data

Single and two-phase 2D fluid flow equations are used to design a transformation procedure that evaluates horizontal permeability directly from time-lapse seismic data. The exact formula used depends on whether the seismic is predominantly sensitive to saturation or pressure changes. Tests are performed on synthetic and observed 4D seismic from a North Sea field, and illustrate the promise of this technique to deliver information directly for future integration with the reservoir model. The results suggest that pressure-controlled seismic is to be preferred over saturation-controlled for robust permeability estimation.