Case Study: Locating Productive Layers using Pair-Correlation Function in Volve Field North Sea

A stratigraphic interval with a high probability of containing hydrocarbons and ideal permeability for extraction is actively sought in energy exploration and production. Finding this true productive layer would prove both efficient and economical for drilling and production. This study uses log data from wells within the Volve, North Sea as input data for Pair Correlation Function (PCF) analysis, an application of the Effective Medium Theory (EMT). This approach has the potential to predict a productive layer and physical properties of a reservoir. In the study, calculations are performed over multiple well logs as a test of the approach and to assess the accuracy of the predictions, which are confirmed by production data and geologic interpretations. Based on the PCF results, this approach predicted a productive layer with 81% accuracy within the analyzed wells in the Volve field. Given these promising results, PCF calculations could be a new method, used in conjunction with other reservoir characterization techniques, to better predict a productive layer.