On the utility of the shear modulus in rock physics model development: robust workflows for compressible high porosity siliciclastic reservoirs
Westside Houston
Speaker:
Seminar Date: Oct 09 2025
Registration Opens: Sep 18 2025 - Oct 10 2025
Time: 11:30 AM - 01:00 PM (US CDT)
Admission/Registration Link: None
Donation Link: None
Meeting/Webinar Link: None
Contact: QinShan “Shan” Yang (VP Westside, SPWLA Houston Chapter)
Corresponding: vpwestside@spwla-houston.org
Fees: FREENOTES:
Speaker : Mark Kittridge
Date : Thursday, Oct 9th, 2025
Time : 11:30 am – 1:00 pm (US CDT)
Venue : SLB, 6350 West Sam Houston Parkway North, Houston, TX 77041
Admission : This activity will include a boxed lunch.
The seminar is sponsored by SLB so there
is no charge for registration,
However, you still need to register using
the applicable links below.
Parking Info : Guest parking is available free of charge. Upon arrival, please proceed to the front desk to check in.
Please register by one day before the event to reserve lunch using the above provided link.
Contact : QinShan (Shan) Yang (SPWLA Houston VP Westside)
Corresponding vpwestside@spwla-houston.org
ABSTRACT:
We describe a novel workflow for rock physics model development in high porosity (compressible) reservoir sands where seismic data are frequently used to identify reservoir presence, infer fluid type(s), and monitor dynamic (4D) reservoir behavior. We apply a stress dependent model that yields robust dry-rock moduli that are consistent with the mineral-based grain Poisson’s ratio. The workflow is data-driven and model-based and relies on the shear modulus for fluid independent model calibration, enabling a wide range of well-based interpretive workflows. Core data, including representative analog measurements, provide independent model calibration when available. We highlight applications using high quality Gulf of America well data including model calibration, stress-dependent elastic properties, well-based rock physics close-the-loop (CtL), and show a clear example of time-lapse invasion affecting wellbore acoustic log data.
BIOGRAPHY:
Mark is a Petroleum Engineer with over 37 years’ experience in Petrophysics and Geophysics, delivering innovative technically rigorous reservoir characterization solutions across the E&P life cycle. With emphasis on multi-scale and multi-physics integration, I apply a data-driven and model-based approach to inform improved decision making in a complex 3D subsurface. Recognized industry and company expert in rock and fluid physics for robust geophysical seismic attribute interpretation, responsible for the development of methods and workflows deployed globally. His career includes relevant project work from five continents and professional experience including well operations, integrated reservoir studies, enhanced oil recovery, and physics of rocks for conventional (clastic, carbonate) and unconventional reservoirs. He is currently Principal and Manager of QI Geophysics at Oxy. Mark earned a MSc in Petroleum Engineering (The University of Texas at Austin) in 1988 and BSc and Professional degrees in Geological Engineering (Colorado School of Mines) in 1986.