Mr. Robert Schelstrate

Research

Identifying clay content from seismic attributes within a shaly sandstone reservoir

Sandstone facies are ideal reservoirs for the accumulation of hydrocarbons in conventional exploration. It is common, however, to have interbedded sand and shale in a depositional sequence. The shale then becomes a limiting factor in the quality of the reservoir. Previous studies have developed a method of identifying critical clay content (V_cc) from well log data in a shaly sandstone reservoir. The next step is to identify this petrophysical parameter using seismic attributes. Linking seismic attributes to reservoir properties makes it possible to map and predict the location of potential obstacles in the development of commercial hydrocarbons. An increase in clay content, for example, could identify a zone within the sandstone reservoir, which could prevent optimal flow dynamics. Utilizing seismic attributes would be especially useful in fluvial depositional environments where meandering channel deposits range from proximal to distal levees with the increase in clay content. This project will begin with a detailed seismic interpretation of the Norne field, offshore Norway, and the extraction of multiple seismic attributes.  The next task will be identifying the critical clay content using wells logs within the Norne field and the model proposed by Adesokan (2012). Adesokan’s model will have to be modified before application, since the model was developed assuming an inorganic material. After modification, seismic attributes will be mathematically linked with the critical clay content parameter to establish a relationship between scales. Finally, mapping the area using both the seismic attributes and the petrophysical parameters will be completed, compared, and superimposed to illustrate the correlation.

Gravity and magnetic mapping of the NE Brazil coastline (Past Research)                               

Developing integrated gravity and magnetic models of the NE coastline of Brazil in an effort to clarify the transition between continental and oceanic crust. This analysis will provide a clearer image of the desired drilling locations for petroleum resources in the area. 

Leadership Experience

AAPG Imperial Barrel Award Competition                                        April 2013

Team Captain

• Eight-week exploration project designed to replicate a new ventures group within a petroleum company. 
• Our team won the Gulf Coast Region and will be competing in the international competition at the AAPG Annual Convention, in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania,  May 17, 2013

Texas A&M University, College of Geosciences                                 August 2012 –Present

Teacher’s Assistant    

• Introduced students to the basics of Petroleum Geology and Integrated Reservoir Studies, and how it is used in modern exploration and development programs. Topics include: identifying sedimentary basins, petroleum systems and elements, as well as the geological methods used in exploration and development.
• Mentored students in their junior or senior year of geology, geophysics, or petroleum engineering. Assigned integrated groups for presentation on field analysis and recommendation for future field development.
• Monitored students’ performance and provided additional resources and mentoring to ensure success