Full Waveform Acoustic Logging - Where We Are, Where We Are Going

Abstract

We have now completed the second year of the Full Waveform Acoustic Logging Consortium. During these two years, we have developed a good understanding of seismic wave propagation in a borehole through both theoretical modelling and data interpretation. If we were to make a simple statement about the full waveform acoustic log, it would be that the method has far greater potential for determining formation properties than we ever had envisioned. But the problem is complicated and utilizing the data effectively requires sophisticated theoretical analyses and new approaches to data acquisition and interpretation. In this introductory chapter of the second annual report of the Consortium, we give some examples to illustrate the potential of full waveform acoustic logs and problems associated with the interpretation of the data. Based on these assessments, we also identify some topics that will receive priority in our research in the coming years.