DOHA: Qatar Shell Research & Technology Centre (QSRTC) successfully completed the field testing of a new fiber-optic seismic system. Making use of cutting-edge fibre-optic and laser technology, the system is designed to provide a more cost effective method to deliver more accurate and higher quality seismic data for exploration and permanent production monitoring.
The objective of the field testing is to demonstrate the ability of the technology to provide enhanced images of the subsurface using this technique, with the potential for large-scale deployment. The field testing and trial phase of the system was completed in March.
The collected data is currently being analysed at QSRTC using “state-of-the- art” data processing, imaging and visualization techniques. If successful, the new technology could represent a significant advancement in onshore oil and gas exploration, as well as monitoring and enhancing production.
“Qatar’s subsurface holds tremendous potential for oil, gas and water. Developing and deploying innovative technologies to support Qatar unlock these resources is a major focus area for our research at QSRTC,” said Wael Sawan, Managing Director and Chairman of Qatar Shell Companies The system is part of a series of initiatives that Shell has undertaken to improve the quality of data obtained from seismic shooting. Shell technologists recognized the potential breakthrough innovation of applying PGS’ underlying OptoSeisTM technology for onshore seismic. Shell has been collaborating with PGS on the technology since 2010.
QSRTC has tested the applicability of the fiber optic system in Qatar in preparation for a commercial deployment of this innovative onshore seismic acquisition system. This technology represents just one of a number of research and development programmes managed by QSRTC to test new and emerging technologies under the themes of Energy and Environment.
Youssif Saleh, General Manager of QSRTC, said: “This is innovation at its best and a clear example of how creativity and ingenuity are creating game changing technology with significant results. This technology not only offers more accurate and higher quality seismic data, but will also enable scalability far beyond what is currently available.”
The Peninsula
