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Rock Physics for Exploration

13 – 17 Apr. 2026, Dubai10 – 14 Aug. 2026, Abu Dhabi

COURSE OVERVIEW:

Rock Physics for Exploration is the essential technical link that connects the geological world of rocks and fluids to the geophysical world of seismic waves. This course focuses on how physical properties—such as porosity, mineralogy, and fluid saturation—dictate the velocity and density measurements recorded by seismic surveys. Participants will learn how to build predictive models that translate subsurface geological scenarios into synthetic seismic signatures, allowing for more accurate prospect de-risking and lead identification.

 

The coverage includes the fundamental elastic constants and the mathematical frameworks of rock physics, such as the Gassmann equations for fluid substitution and various velocity-porosity models. Attendees will explore the specific rock physics "templates" for different depositional environments, from young unconsolidated clastics to deep, cemented reservoirs. The scope addresses the use of cross-plotting techniques to isolate "anomalous" seismic responses that may indicate the presence of hydrocarbons.

 

Furthermore, the course addresses the impact of burial history, compaction, and diagenesis on seismic attributes. Participants will learn how to distinguish between "lithology-driven" and "fluid-driven" seismic anomalies, which is a critical skill for reducing the number of dry holes in exploration. By the end of the course, participants will be able to perform rock physics diagnostics on well logs and utilize these insights to guide seismic interpretation and quantitative attribute analysis.

 

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

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

  • Define the core principles of Elasticity and Wave Propagation.
  • Understand the role of Rock Physics in the Exploration workflow.
  • Utilize Velocity-Porosity models (Wyllie, Raymer, Critical Porosity).
  • Apply Gassmann’s Equation for fluid substitution modeling.
  • Calculate Elastic Moduli ($K, G, E, \nu$) from well-log data.
  • Distinguish between the seismic effects of Gas, Oil, and Brine.
  • Build Rock Physics Templates (RPT) for prospect evaluation.
  • Analyze the impact of Clay content on seismic velocities.
  • Evaluate the effect of Compaction and Diagenesis on rock stiffness.
  • Use $Vp/Vs$ ratios to discriminate lithology and fluid types.
  • Perform Rock Physics Diagnostics to check log data quality.
  • Understand the link between Rock Physics and AVO (Amplitude Versus Offset).
  • Predict seismic responses for different geological "what-if" scenarios.
  • Communicate rock physics risks effectively to multidisciplinary teams.

 

TARGET AUDIENCE:

Exploration Geologists, Geophysicists, and Petrophysicists who need to understand the physical basis of seismic reflections and attribute responses.

 

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.

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