Abstract: A method for determining on a real time logging while drilling (LWD) basis the top of cement location between casing transition zones in a borehole using at least one sonic attributes of coherent energy, attenuation and slowness as a function of at least one of depth and time.

Abstract: Methods for compression of sonic log data include STC processing, sorting peak components in the sonic data; filtering the sorted peak components to remove high-frequency portions in the peak components; and decimating the filtered peak components according to a selected ratio to produce compressed data. One method for telemetry transmission of downhole sonic log data includes sorting peak components in the sonic log data; compressing the sorted peak components to produce compressed data; packing the compressed data to produce data packets for telemetry transmission; and sending the data packets using telemetry.

Abstract: A method for compression of sonic log data includes sorting peak components in the sonic data; filtering the sorted peak components to remove high-frequency portions in the peak components; and decimating the filtered peak components according to a selected ratio to produce compressed data. A method for telemetry transmission of downhole sonic log data includes sorting peak components in the sonic log data; compressing the sorted peak components to produce compressed data; packing the compressed data to produce data packets for telemetry transmission; and sending the data packets where desired using telemetry.

Abstract: In one aspect, the invention involves an acoustic logging tool for performing acoustic investigations of subsurface geological formations. In one embodiment, the tool comprises a generally longitudinally extending tool body adapted for positioning in a borehole. At least one transmitter is mounted on the tool body to emit acoustic energy. At least one receiver is also mounted on the tool body at a location axially displaced from the at least one transmitter. The receiver is adapted to receive acoustic energy. An attenuator is also positioned along the body and includes at least one cavity having a plurality of particles disposed therein. The attenuator as disclosed herein may be applied to other logging tools for protecting tool components and enhancing measurement quality. Methods for attenuating acoustic energy transmitted through the body of an acoustic logging tool or other logging tools are also disclosed.