Using seismic to predict favorable areas for a fault-fracture controlled tight sandstone gas reservoir in Xujiahe formation, northeastern Sichuan Basin, China

Tight sandstone reservoirs are widely spread in Triassic age Xujiahe formation in Yuanba area, northeastern Sichuan Basin, China. This study uses seismic, core, logging, and other data sources, applying seismic attribute analysis to characterize fault-fracture system and predict the sweet spots in the study area. By leveraging geological understanding and fracture characteristics, and using concepts like fault-controlled, foldcontrolled, and associated fracture zones, a detailed model of the fault-fracture system for the fourth Xujiahe formation is created. Key seismic attributes, such as likelihood, curvature, tensor attenuation, and Chaos, are combined in 3D space to improve the accuracy of fault-fracture system identification. Additionally, an anticlinal fold coefficient algorithm is developed to refine the characterization, focusing on structures that support fracture growth and hydrocarbon accumulation. Finally, a classification and evaluation of favorable areas for this fault-fracture system controlled tight sandstone gas reservoirs is conducted, yielding well-correlateable results. The results of this research provide valuable insights for the exploration and development of fault-fracture controlled tight sandstone gas reservoirs in the Xujiahe Formation and can serve as a reference for similar oil and gas reservoirs in other geological settings.