Proposing new approach for litho-facies modeling by use of Markov Chain method, an Iranian oil field

Reconnaissance and interpretation of underground heterogeneity, particularly litho-facies, always plays an important role in evaluation and management of hydrocarbon resources. Between various methods presented for modeling discrete characteristics of hydrocarbon reservoirs such as litho-facies, one with a more proper conformity with actual condition of reservoir facies is of great advantage. Formed on basis of probability and presenting transition matrix, Markov method is widely applied as a powerful tool for modeling the facies. In the present study, first the method is introduced in details; then, in order to optimize it, suggestion is made based on changing the type of the move of chain in simulation procedure. The case study is a 12 km long 110 m thick section of Anhydrite and three major members of Asmari Formation from an oil field, South-West Iran. This section is modeled through Markov procedure and proposed solution. The models set indicated that on basis of using the data from two wells and five seismic horizons, best result, with 90% accuracy, is for reciprocating motion.