Abstract: A method is provided for obtaining a quantitative prediction of a magnitude of a maximum horizontal stress (SH/SV) at a point on a horizon within a prospect including the following steps: a) receiving seismic reflection data including a plurality of seismic reflection lines within the prospect; b) interpreting the seismic reflection data to identify at least four horizons produced during a compressional pulse period and at least one anticline and/or syncline; c) mapping in plan the identified anticlines and/or synclines; d) classifying each anticline into one or more predefined stress states based on the length of the anticline and its proximity to adjacent anticlines and/or classifying each syncline into one or more predefined stress states based on the length of the syncline and its proximity to adjacent synclines; wherein each predefined stress state corresponds to a predetermined value for the magnitude of the maximum horizontal stress (SH/SV).

Abstract: A method is provided for obtaining a quantitative prediction of a magnitude of a maximum horizontal stress (SH/SV) at a point on a horizon within a prospect including the following steps: a) receiving seismic reflection data including a plurality of seismic reflection lines within the prospect; b) interpreting the seismic reflection data to identify at least four horizons produced during a compressional pulse period and at least one anticline and/or syncline; c) mapping in plan the identified anticlines and/or synclines; d) classifying each anticline into one or more predefined stress states based on the length of the anticline and its proximity to adjacent anticlines and/or classifying each syncline into one or more predefined stress states based on the length of the syncline and its proximity to adjacent synclines; wherein each predefined stress state corresponds to a predetermined value for the magnitude of the maximum horizontal stress (SH/SV).

Abstract: This invention relates to a method for determining direction and relative magnitude of maximum horizontal stress in sedimentary basins within Earth's crust. In particular the method uses seismic reflection data in determining the direction and magnitude of stresses. The method involves identifying from seismic data faults which cut the upper continental crust and uses those faults in conjunction with globally simultaneous compressional structures such as anticline to map the horizontal stresses. The invention has a particular application in the hydrocarbon exploration and production industry and has the advantage of providing the results pre-drill.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method for determining direction and relative magnitude of maximum horizontal stress in sedimentary basins within Earth's crust. In particular the method uses seismic reflection data in determining the direction and magnitude of stresses. The method involves identifying from seismic data faults which cut the upper continental crust and uses those faults in conjunction with globally simultaneous compressional structures such as anticline to map the horizontal stresses. The invention has a particular application in the hydrocarbon exploration and production industry and has the advantage of providing the results pre-drill.