• Geophysics and Geophysical Exploration
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• v.14 no.1
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• pp.50-57
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• 2011

For effective and accurate prediction of overpressure in the Efomeh field, located in the Niger delta basin of Nigeria, integrated seismic and borehole analyses were undertaken. Normal and abnormal pore pressure zones were delineated based on the principle of normal and deviation from normal velocity trends. The transition between the two trends signifies the top of overpressure. The overpressure tops were picked at regular intervals from seismic data using interval velocities obtained by applying Dix's approximation. The accuracy of the predicted overpressure zone was confirmed from the sonic velocity data of the Efomeh 01 well. The variation to the depth of overpressure between the predicted and observed values was less than 10mat the Efomeh 01 well location, with confidence of over 99 per cent. The depth map generated shows that the depth distribution to the top of the overpressure zone of the Efomeh field falls within the sub-sea depth range of 2655${\pm}$2m (2550 ms) to 3720${\pm}$2m (2900 ms). This depth conforms to thick marine shales using the Efomeh 01 composite log. The lower part of the Agbada Formation within the Efomeh field is overpressured and the depth of the top of the overpressure does not follow any time-stratigraphic boundary across the field. Prediction of the top of the overpressure zone within the Efomeh field for potential wells that will total depth beyond 2440m sub-sea is very important for safer drilling practice as well as the prevention of lost circulation.

• Geophysics and Geophysical Exploration
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• v.19 no.4
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• pp.187-199
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• 2016

In order to delineate the soft ground distribution, an integrated geostatistical analysis was performed using the MASW (Multichannel Analysis of Surface Wave) which has the information of overall region and CPTu (Piezo Cone Penetration Test) which provides the direct information of the measuring point of the ground. MASW results were known to have close relationship with the ground stiffness. This correlation was confirmed through the comparison of MASW data obtained from two survey lines to the laboratory test with extracted soil samples. 3D physical property distribution in the study area was acquired by geostatistical integrated analysis with the data of tip resistance ($q_c$) and pore pressure (u) from the CPTu obtained at 6 points within the study area. The integrated analysis was conducted by applying the COSGSIM (Sequential Gaussian Co-Simulation) technology which can carry out the simulation in accordance with the spatial correlation between the MASW results and both tip resistance and pore pressure. Besides the locations of CPTu, borehole investigations were also conducted at two different positions. As a result, the N value of SPT and borehole log could be secured, so these data were used for the analysis of the geotechnical engineering accuracy of the integrated analysis result. For the verification of reliability of the 3D distribution of tip resistance and pore pressure secured through integrated analysis, the geotechnical information gained from the two drilling areas was compared, and the result showed extremely high correlation.