COURSE OVERVIEW:

Electromagnetic methods represent a sophisticated suite of geophysical techniques used to map the electrical resistivity of the Earth's subsurface. In the context of hydrocarbon exploration, these methods serve as a critical de-risking tool by providing information that traditional seismic data might miss, specifically regarding the fluid content of potential reservoirs. While seismic imaging excels at defining structural traps and lithological boundaries, it often struggles to differentiate between brine-saturated and hydrocarbon-bearing rocks. Electromagnetic surveys, particularly Controlled-Source Electromagnetic (CSEM) and Magnetotellurics (MT), fill this gap by detecting the high resistivity signatures typically associated with oil and gas accumulations.

The scope of this course encompasses the physical principles governing electromagnetic induction and propagation within different geological media. Participants will explore the theoretical framework of Maxwell’s equations and how they apply to practical field scenarios. The coverage extends from the initial survey design and data acquisition phases to the complex processes of data processing, inversion, and integrated interpretation. By understanding the sensitivity of electromagnetic fields to subsurface conductivity variations, explorationists can better characterize complex play types, including sub-salt and sub-basalt targets where seismic energy is often attenuated or scattered.

Furthermore, the course addresses the strategic integration of electromagnetic data into the broader exploration workflow. It highlights the importance of multidisciplinary synergy, showing how resistivity models can be constrained by seismic horizons and well-log data to reduce non-uniqueness in geophysical inversion. The curriculum also examines the environmental and operational considerations of marine and land-based EM surveys. Through detailed analysis of case studies and current industry trends, the course provides a comprehensive roadmap for leveraging electromagnetic technologies to improve the probability of discovery and optimize the placement of exploration wells.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

• Define the fundamental physical principles of electromagnetism in a geological context.
• Distinguish between natural source and controlled source electromagnetic methods.
• Explain the relationship between subsurface resistivity and hydrocarbon saturation.
• Design an effective electromagnetic survey based on specific exploration targets.
• Evaluate the technical requirements for marine versus land-based EM acquisition.
• Analyze the impact of anisotropy on electromagnetic data interpretation.
• Perform basic quality control on acquired electromagnetic datasets.
• Interpret 1D and 2D inversion results to identify resistive anomalies.
• Integrate electromagnetic resistivity models with 3D seismic structural frameworks.
• Assess the limitations and depth of investigation for various EM techniques.
• Apply electromagnetic methods to de-risk prospects in sub-salt environments.
• Utilize MT data for regional basin analysis and deep crustal imaging.
• Calculate the sensitivity of EM sensors to different reservoir thicknesses.
• Compare the cost-benefit ratio of adding EM surveys to an exploration program.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

Geophysicists, Exploration Geologists, Petrophysicists, and Technical Managers involved in de-risking hydrocarbon prospects and regional subsurface mapping.

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.