Induced Seismicity
Seismicity refers to the occurrence of earthquakes,
- natural seismicity results from geological processes, such as tectonic plate movement or volcanic activity.
- Induced seismicity, often microseismicity, is triggered by human activities involving the injection/production of fluids in the subsurface.
Deploying seismic monitoring networks enables real-time responses: detection and precise location of (micro)seismic events, supporting informed operational decision and adjustments.
Detecting stress changes is key: Rocks tend to fracture in specific directions and under certain conditions. Understanding fracture locations and their evolution helps mitigating risks.
In case of natural gas, CO2, hydrogen and water injection, monitoring provides information on wellbore and fault stability, cap rock integrity, as well as fluid displacement control or acquifer preservation, reducing risks of unwanted leakage or instability.
Isamgeo Natural and Induced Seismicity monitoring: From Event Detection to characterization:
ISAMGEO seismicity monitoring involves installation and quality control of seismic sensors. Detection of natural and induced seismic events from continuous recorded waveforms is achieved through automatic processing algorithms that deliver real–time alerts. Once an event is detected, its hypocenter is evaluated, and correlation with human activities is assessed according to regional and company regulations.
The relationship between seismicity and subsurface operations is analyzed by examining the long-term seismic catalog along with geomechanical characteristics of the reservoir and its geological context.
Isamgeo Services and Tools include:
- Analysis of seismic monitoring network quality
- Real time monitoring of seismic activity
- Seismic event characterization
- Development of custom tools for seismological analysis
- Refinement of seismic waves velocity and attenuation models
In oil and gas and geothermal wells, monitoring ensures the safe production of resources while minimizing risks of unwanted seismicity. For gas storage and Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS), continuous monitoring safeguards against potential integrity issues within reservoirs, helping to detect and prevent leakage or unwanted subsurface movement. Mineral exploration benefits from induced seismicity monitoring by enabling the controlled assessment of geological stability, ensuring safer and more efficient resource extraction.