Dr. Catalina Luneberg: Utilizing Structural Modeling Workflows to Predict Natural Fracture Networks

AAPG PSGD Webinar March 31st 2023

Abstract:
Predicting natural fracture networks is critical for
unconventional hydrocarbon exploration, carbon capture
storage, and geothermal energy projects. Structural
restorations and forward modeling techniques allow to simulate
the evolution of a structure while tracking stress and strain
states as well as other fracture proxies. This case study uses a
2D seismic section and balanced interpretation of the Teapot
Dome anticline to test kinematic as well as mechanical
modeling tools in an evolutionary forward modeling scenario.
The Teapot Dome fractured reservoir is located within a
basement-cored, doubly-plunging anticline above a blind
reverse fault of Laramide age. Numerical models were
performed in a stepped sequence of a propagating trishear
model while tracking various properties. Results illustrate the
potential of predicting fracture formation throughout the
evolution of a structure and in response to the different rock
types and their structural position.

Bio:
Catalina Luneburg, PhD is a structural geologist and expert
for the structural validation of geologic settings worldwide as
well as the exploration of their energy and mineral potential.
She has worked in the Oil & Gas sector in companies such as
Halliburton, GeoLogic Systems and Midland Valley developing
and applying structural modeling techniques in 2D and 3D
restoration and balancing projects as well as software
development and training. She is the owner of TerraEx Group,
LLC, a Geoscience training and consulting company with a
diverse expert team operating worldwide. Currently she is
applying her expertise cross-industry at Newmont Corporation,
the industry leader in gold mining.