Computational and Applied Math Proseminar

Department of Mathematics, Arizona State University

Tuesday, October 19, 2004, 3:40 p.m. LSE 106

Dr Ben Jeffryes

Schlumberger Cambridge Research

The Mathematics of Oil Exploration and Production

(also Colloquium)

Abstract These days oil exploration and development requires far more than a hunch and a sharp drill bit. While many people are aware of the role that seismic imaging plays in finding hydrocarbons, applied mathematics underpins many of the other key activities during all stages of exploration and production (E&P). If there is one element that characterizes the different applications, it is the need to make robust predictions from inadequate data.

After introducing what the E&P business is all about, I shall describe some of the challenges faced in forward modelling and inversion for subsurface measurements, explain how Bayesian methods help in making crucial decisions while drilling, and (if there is time), describe how the theory of semiconductors is linked to acoustic wave propagation in drillpipes.

For further information please contact: mittelmann@asu.edu