Rock Physics Modeling: Application and Limitations at Mount Elbert Site, Alaska

摘要

The presence of gas hydrates produces a noticeable change in the bulk physical properties of the host sediments. The change in background properties can be used to determine the hydrate saturation. In this study, we used several rock physics models and tried to estimate the saturation of gas hydrates at Mount Elbert test well site, Alaska. While some of these models are empirical transforms, others involve the physics associated with the formation of rock sediments. The results are then compared with those obtained from NMR density porosity logs taking into account the limitations of various models. Based on our estimation, the hydrate saturation in the hydrate stability zone varies from 40% to 80% in the pore spaces at the study site. It is found that the effective medium model and Raymer- Hunt-Gardner equation fit well at this site.