AVO Analysis and Seismic Amplitude Interpretation
| 02 – 06 Feb. 2026, Abu Dhabi | 06 – 10 July 2026, Abu Dhabi |
COURSE OVERVIEW:
AVO Analysis and Seismic Amplitude Interpretation is a sophisticated course focused on the relationship between seismic reflection amplitudes and the physical properties of the subsurface, such as lithology, porosity, and fluid content. By studying how seismic amplitudes change with the angle of incidence (Amplitude Versus Offset), geoscientists can differentiate between "false" structural anomalies and actual hydrocarbon-bearing reservoirs. This course provides the theoretical and practical foundation required to perform Quantitative Interpretation (QI) in modern exploration and appraisal.
The scope of this training involves the detailed study of Zoeppritz equations and their various linear approximations, such as Shuey’s and Fatti’s formulations. Participants will learn how to identify AVO classes (Class I to IV) and understand their significance in terms of acoustic impedance and Poisson’s ratio contrasts. The course covers the essential steps of seismic conditioning, including the removal of noise and the preservation of true relative amplitudes, which is critical for any successful AVO study.
Furthermore, the course addresses the integration of well-log data through rock physics modeling to create "synthetic" AVO responses. This forward modeling allows interpreters to calibrate seismic observations with known geological scenarios. By the end of the course, participants will be proficient in using cross-plotting techniques, such as Intercept vs. Gradient, to isolate fluid anomalies and predict reservoir quality in various depositional environments, ranging from unconsolidated sands to complex carbonates.
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:
- Explain the physical principles governing seismic reflection amplitudes.
- Derive and apply the Shuey approximation for AVO interpretation.
- Classify AVO anomalies into Classes I, II, III, and IV.
- Differentiate between lithology effects and fluid effects on seismic data.
- Perform seismic data conditioning to preserve amplitude integrity.
- Conduct rock physics modeling to create AVO synthetics from well logs.
- Utilize Intercept (A) and Gradient (B) cross-plots for anomaly detection.
- Identify and mitigate "false positives" such as coals or volcanic layers.
- Apply Fluid Replacement Modeling (FRM) using the Gassmann equation.
- Evaluate the impact of seismic anisotropy on AVO response.
- Integrate AVO attributes into the prospect risk and ranking process.
- Utilize advanced attributes like Fluid Factor and Lambda-Mu-Rho (LMR).
- Interpret AVO signatures in both clastic and carbonate reservoir systems.
TARGET AUDIENCE:
Geophysicists, Interpretation Geologists, and Reservoir Engineers are involved in prospect maturation and quantitative reservoir characterization.
TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:
A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximise the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.
The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.
COURSE CERTIFICATE:
National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.

