Simultaneous 3D depth-to-basement and density-contrast estimates using gravity data and depth control at few points

Geophysics ◽  
2010 ◽  
Vol 75 (3) ◽  
pp. I21-I28 ◽  
Author(s):  
Cristiano M. Martins ◽  
Valeria C. Barbosa ◽  
João B. Silva
Keyword(s):  
Gravity Data ◽  
Synthetic Data ◽  
Structural Features ◽  
Density Contrast ◽  
Gravity Inversion ◽  
Inversion Method ◽  
Contrast Variation ◽  
Parabolic Law ◽  
Depth Control ◽  
Basement Depth

We have developed a gravity-inversion method for simultaneously estimating the 3D basement relief of a sedimentary basin and the parameters defining a presumed parabolic decay of the density contrast with depth in a sedimentary pack, assuming prior knowledge about the basement depth at a few points. The sedimentary pack is approximated by a grid of 3D vertical prisms juxtaposed in both horizontal directions of a right-handed coordinate system. The prisms’ thicknesses represent the depths to the basement and are the parameters to be estimated from the gravity data. To estimate the parameters defining the parabolic decay of the density contrast with depth and to produce stable depth-to-basement estimates, we imposed smoothness on the basement depths and proximity between estimated and known depths at boreholes. We applied our method to synthetic data from a simulated complex 3D basement relief with two sedimentary sections having distinct parabolic laws describing the density-contrast variation with depth. The results provide good estimates of the true parameters of the parabolic law of density-contrast decay with depth and of the basement relief. Inverting the gravity data from the onshore and part of the shallow offshore Almada Basin on Brazil’s northeastern coast shows good correlation with known structural features.

Gravity data as a tool for detecting faults: In-depth enhancement of subtle Almada’s basement faults, Brazil

Geophysics ◽  
2007 ◽  
Vol 72 (3) ◽  
pp. B59-B68 ◽  
Author(s):  
Valeria C. Barbosa ◽  
Paulo T. Menezes ◽  
João B. Silva
Keyword(s):  
Gravity Data ◽  
Synthetic Data ◽  
Normal Fault ◽  
Northeastern Brazil ◽  
Normal Faults ◽  
Gravity Inversion ◽  
Inversion Method ◽  
Basement Faults ◽  
Depth Enhancement ◽  
Fault Displacement

We demonstrate the potential of gravity data to detect and to locate in-depth subtle normal faults in the basement relief of a sedimentary basin. This demonstration is accomplished by inverting the gravity data with the constraint that the estimated basement relief presents local abrupt faults and is smooth elsewhere. We inverted the gravity data from the onshore Almada Basin in northeastern Brazil, and we mapped several normal faults whose locations and plane geometries were already known from seismic imaging. The inversion method delineated well both the discontinuities with small or large slips and a sequence of step faults. Using synthetic data, we performed a systematic search of normal fault slips versus fault displacement depths to map the fault-detectable region in this space. This mapping helps to assess the ability of gravity inversion to detect normal faults. Mapping shows that normal faults with small [Formula: see text], medium (about [Formula: see text]), and large (about [Formula: see text]) vertical slips can be detected if the maximum midpoint depths of the fault planes are smaller than 1.8, 3.8, and [Formula: see text], respectively.

Adaptive learning 3D gravity inversion for salt-body imaging

Geophysics ◽  
2011 ◽  
Vol 76 (3) ◽  
pp. I49-I57 ◽  
Author(s):  
Fernando J. S. Silva Dias ◽  
Valéria C. F. Barbosa ◽  
João B. C. Silva
Keyword(s):  
Adaptive Learning ◽  
Learning Strategy ◽  
Gravity Data ◽  
Density Contrast ◽  
Piecewise Constant Function ◽  
Gravity Inversion ◽  
Inversion Method ◽  
Outer Loop ◽  
Bottom Depth ◽  
Geometric Elements

We have developed an iterative scheme for inverting gravity data produced by salt bodies with density contrasts relative to the sediments varying from positive to negative, crossing, in this way, the nil zone. Our inversion method estimates a 3D density-contrast distribution, through a piecewise constant function defined on a user-specified grid of cells. It consists of two nested iterative loops. The outer loop uses an adaptive learning strategy that starts with a coarse grid of cells, a set of first-guess geometric elements (axes and points) and the corresponding assigned density contrasts. From the second iteration on, this strategy refines the grid and automatically creates a new set of geometric elements (points only) and associated density contrasts. Each geometric element operates as the first-guess skeletal outline of a section of the salt body to be imaged. The inner loop estimates the 3D density-contrast distribution for the grid of cells and for the set of geometric elements defined in the outer loop. The outer loop allows for easy incorporation of prior geologic information about the lithologic units and automatic evolution of the prior information. The inner loop forces the estimated density contrast of each cell to be close either to a null or to a non-null prespecified value. The iteration stops when the geometries of the estimated salt bodies are invariant along successive iterations. We apply our method to synthetic gravity data produced by a homogeneous salt body embedded in heterogeneous sediments. We tested two geologic hypotheses about the real gravity data from Galveston Island salt dome, USA. In the first, the estimated salt body attains a maximum bottom depth of 5 km, whereas in the second hypothesis, it is shallower and discloses an overhang. Both solutions fit the data and are feasible geologically, so both hypotheses are acceptable.

Gravity inversion of basement relief constrained by the knowledge of depth at isolated points

Geophysics ◽  
1996 ◽  
Vol 61 (6) ◽  
pp. 1702-1714 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jorge W. D. Leão ◽  
Paulo T. L. Menezes ◽  
Jacira F. Beltrão ◽  
João B. C. Silva
Keyword(s):  
Linear Trend ◽  
Gravity Data ◽  
Synthetic Data ◽  
Effective Density ◽  
Density Contrast ◽  
Gravity Inversion ◽  
True Value ◽  
Isolated Points ◽  
The Media ◽  
Homogeneous Media

We present an interpretation method for the gravity anomaly of an arbitrary interface separating two homogeneous media. It consists essentially of a downward continuation of the observed anomaly and the division of the continued anomaly by a scale factor involving the density contrast between the media. The knowledge of the interface depth at isolated points is used to estimate the depth [Formula: see text] of the shallowest point of the interface, the density contrast Δρ between the two media, and the coefficients [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] of a first‐order polynomial representing a linear trend to be removed from data. The solutions are stabilized by introducing a damping parameter in the computation of the downward‐continued anomaly by the equivalent layer method. Different from other interface mapping methods using gravity data, the proposed method: (1) takes into account the presence of an undesirable linear trend in data; (2) requires just intervals for both Δρ (rather than the knowledge of its true value) and coefficients [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]; and (3) does not require the knowledge of the average interface depth [Formula: see text]. As a result of (3), the proposed method does not call for extensive knowledge of the interface depth to obtain a statistically significant estimate of [Formula: see text]; rather, it is able to use the knowledge of the interface depth at just a few isolated points to estimate [Formula: see text], Δρ, [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text]. Tests using synthetic data confirm that the method produces good and stable estimates as far as the established premises (smooth interface separating two homogeneous media and, at most, the presence of an unremoved linear trend in data) are not violated. If the density contrast is not uniform, the method may still be applied using Litinsky’s concept of effective density. The method was applied to gravity data from Recôncavo Basin, Brazil, producing good correlations of estimated lows and terraces in the basement with corresponding known geological features.

A Bayesian approach to modeling 2D gravity data using polygons

Geophysics ◽  
2017 ◽  
Vol 82 (1) ◽  
pp. G1-G21 ◽  
Author(s):  
William J. Titus ◽  
Sarah J. Titus ◽  
Joshua R. Davis
Keyword(s):  
Gravity Data ◽  
Synthetic Data ◽  
Gravity Inversion ◽  
Limiting Factor ◽  
Data Sets ◽  
Data Set ◽  
Local Optima ◽  
Occupancy Probability ◽  
Compute Model ◽  
Parameter Values

We apply a Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo formalism to the gravity inversion of a single localized 2D subsurface object. The object is modeled as a polygon described by five parameters: the number of vertices, a density contrast, a shape-limiting factor, and the width and depth of an encompassing container. We first constrain these parameters with an interactive forward model and explicit geologic information. Then, we generate an approximate probability distribution of polygons for a given set of parameter values. From these, we determine statistical distributions such as the variance between the observed and model fields, the area, the center of area, and the occupancy probability (the probability that a spatial point lies within the subsurface object). We introduce replica exchange to mitigate trapping in local optima and to compute model probabilities and their uncertainties. We apply our techniques to synthetic data sets and a natural data set collected across the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge in New Mexico. On the basis of our examples, we find that the occupancy probability is useful in visualizing the results, giving a “hazy” cross section of the object. We also find that the role of the container is important in making predictions about the subsurface object.

Regularized two‐dimensional Fourier gravity inversion method with application to the Silent Canyon caldera, Nevada

Geophysics ◽  
1989 ◽  
Vol 54 (4) ◽  
pp. 486-496 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sharon K. Reamer ◽  
John F. Ferguson
Keyword(s):  
Random Noise ◽  
Empirical Relationship ◽  
Synthetic Data ◽  
Test Site ◽  
Gravity Inversion ◽  
Inversion Method ◽  
Type Model ◽  
Filter Parameter ◽  
Mass Distributions ◽  
Rms Error

A modification of the 2‐D Fourier gravity inversion method includes regularization and a linear density variation with depth. Explicit downward continuation in the Fourier inversion of gravity observations from mass distributions at depth produces instability in the presence of noise and shallow mass distributions. A data‐adaptive regularization filter tapers growth of the exponential continuation function. An empirical relationship between the regularization filter parameter and a parametric model of potential field spectra results in automatic selection of the filter parameter for a given continuation depth. Inversion of synthetic data from a random noise‐contaminated basin type model produces a depth model that agrees with the synthetic structure with an rms error commensurate with the data noise. A model of the Silent Canyon caldera, buried beneath Pahute Mesa at the Nevada Test Site, results in a gravity field that agrees with the observations to within a 4 percent rms error. The caldera gravity model supports the hypothesis of a high‐density half‐space (precaldera lithology) beneath a lower density caldera infill (postcaldera volcanic activity).

2D gravity inversion of a complex interface in the presence of interfering sources

Geophysics ◽  
2007 ◽  
Vol 72 (2) ◽  
pp. I13-I22 ◽  
Author(s):  
Fernando J. Silva Dias ◽  
Valeria C. Barbosa ◽  
João B. Silva
Keyword(s):  
Gravity Data ◽  
Synthetic Data ◽  
Gravity Inversion ◽  
Spectral Content ◽  
Robust Fitting ◽  
Mafic Intrusions ◽  
Fitting Procedure ◽  
Gravity Response ◽  
Geologic Setting ◽  
Gravity Interpretation

We present a new semiautomatic gravity interpretation method for estimating a complex interface between two media containing density heterogeneities (referred to as interfering sources) that give rise to a complex and interfering gravity field. The method combines a robust fitting procedure and the constraint that the interface is very smooth near the interfering sources, whose approximate horizontal coordinates are defined by the user. The proposed method differs from the regional-residual separation techniques by using no spectral content assumption about the anomaly produced by the interface to be estimated, i.e., the interface can produce a gravity response containing both low- and high-wavenumber features. As a result, it may be applied to map the relief of a complex interface in a geologic setting containing either shallow or deep-seated interfering sources. Tests conducted with synthetic data show that the method can be of utility in estimating the basement relief of a sedimentary basin in the presence of salt layers and domes or in the presence of mafic intrusions in the basement or in both basement and the sedimentary section. The method was applied to real gravity data from two geologic settings having different kinds of interfering sources and interfaces to be interpreted: (1) the interface between the upper and lower crusts over the Bavali shear zone of southern India and (2) the anorthosite-tonalite interface over the East Bull Lake gabbro-anorthosite complex outcrop in Ontario, Canada.

Three‐dimensional gravity inversion using simulated annealing: Constraints on the diapiric roots of allochthonous salt structures

Geophysics ◽  
2001 ◽  
Vol 66 (5) ◽  
pp. 1438-1449 ◽  
Author(s):  
Seiichi Nagihara ◽  
Stuart A. Hall
Keyword(s):  
Simulated Annealing ◽  
Gulf Of Mexico ◽  
Gravity Data ◽  
A Priori ◽  
Gravity Inversion ◽  
Inversion Method ◽  
A Priori Information ◽  
Final Density ◽  
Smoothing Effects ◽  
Priori Information

In the northern continental slope of the Gulf of Mexico, large oil and gas reservoirs are often found beneath sheetlike, allochthonous salt structures that are laterally extensive. Some of these salt structures retain their diapiric feeders or roots beneath them. These hidden roots are difficult to image seismically. In this study, we develop a method to locate and constrain the geometry of such roots through 3‐D inverse modeling of the gravity anomalies observed over the salt structures. This inversion method utilizes a priori information such as the upper surface topography of the salt, which can be delineated by a limited coverage of 2‐D seismic data; the sediment compaction curve in the region; and the continuity of the salt body. The inversion computation is based on the simulated annealing (SA) global optimization algorithm. The SA‐based gravity inversion has some advantages over the approach based on damped least‐squares inversion. It is computationally efficient, can solve underdetermined inverse problems, can more easily implement complex a priori information, and does not introduce smoothing effects in the final density structure model. We test this inversion method using synthetic gravity data for a type of salt geometry that is common among the allochthonous salt structures in the Gulf of Mexico and show that it is highly effective in constraining the diapiric root. We also show that carrying out multiple inversion runs helps reduce the uncertainty in the final density model.

scholarly journals 3D Gravity Inversion with Correlation Image in Space Domain and Application to the Northern Sinai Peninsula

2019 ◽  
Vol 1 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Xu Zhang ◽  
Peng Yu ◽  
Jian Wang
Keyword(s):  
Density Distribution ◽  
Gravity Data ◽  
Descent Method ◽  
Steepest Descent Method ◽  
Gravity Inversion ◽  
Inversion Method ◽  
Sinai Peninsula ◽  
Space Domain ◽  
Correlation Image ◽  
Starting Model

We present a 3D inversion method to recover density distribution from gravity data in space domain. Our method firstly employs 3D correlation image of the vertical gradient of gravity data as a starting model to generate a higher resolution image for inversion. The 3D density distribution is then obtained by inverting the correlation image of gravity data to fit the observed data based on classical inversion method of the steepest descent method. We also perform the effective equivalent storage and subdomain techniques in the starting model calculation, the forward modeling and the inversion procedures, which allow fast computation in space domain with reducing memory consumption but maintaining accuracy. The efficiency and stability of our method is demonstrated on two sets of synthetic data and one set of the Northern Sinai Peninsula gravity data. The inverted 3D density distributions show that high density bodies beneath Risan Aniza and low density bodies exist to the southeast of Risan Aniza at depths between 1~10 and 20 km, which may be originated from hot anomalies in the lower crust. The results show that our inversion method is useful for 3D quantitative interpretation.

scholarly journals BASEMENT STRUCTURES IN SANTOS BASIN (BRAZIL) FROM SATELLITE ALTIMETRY AND MARINE GEOPHYSICS

2015 ◽  
Vol 33 (1) ◽  
pp. 29
Author(s):  
Renata Constantino ◽  
Eder Cassola Molina
Keyword(s):  
Satellite Altimetry ◽  
Gravity Data ◽  
Bouguer Anomaly ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Gravity Inversion ◽  
Gravity Effect ◽  
Three Dimensional Model ◽  
Basement Depth ◽  
Basement Structures ◽  
Cabo Frio

ABSTRACT. This paper estimated the basement depth of the Santos Basin region, S˜ao Paulo State, Brazil, combining gravity data obtained from satellite altimetry and marine gravimetry, bathymetric data and sediment thickness from international data banks, and crustal thickness data available in the region. The first step consisted of calculating the gravity effect of sediments in Santos Basin, and the Crustal Mantle Interface (CMI) was modeled from constrained gravity inversion. Subsequently, the reliability of the models obtained was tested by flexural analysis with satisfactory results, as the flexural and gravimetric CMIs showed good agreement. The gravity effect of flexural CMI and the gravity effect of sediments were then calculated and subtracted from the original Bouguer anomaly. The residual field thus obtained, which is assumed to represent the topographical features of the basement, was inverted in the last step of the work, providing information that shows a basement with features of up to 700 m that appear to be in agreement with tectonic features previous discussed, such as the Avedis volcanic chain. The basement depth estimated during this study showed depths ranging from 1,500 to 10,500 m, and the deepest region is consistent with the Cabo Frio Fault. The methodology used in the study showed that from a combined data analysis, it is possible to obtain a three-dimensional model of the basement in ocean areas. This non-seismic approach can be advantageous in terms of efficiency and cost. The knowledge of the basement can offer important insights for the development of genetic and tectonic models of exploratory interest in the region.Keywords: basement, Santos Basin, gravity. RESUMO. Este trabalho visa estimar a profundidade do embasamento na região da Bacia de Santos por meio de uma análise combinada de dados gravimétricos obtidos a partir de altimetria por satélite e gravimetria marinha, com dados batimétricos e modelos de espessura sedimentar provenientes de bancos de dados internacionais e dados de espessura crustal disponíveis na região. Na primeira etapa do trabalho foi calculado o efeito do pacote sedimentar no sinal gravimétrico na Bacia de Santos, como também foi modelada a profundidade da Interface Crosta Manto (ICM) a partir de inversão gravimétrica com vínculos. Na etapa seguinte, a confiabilidade dos modelos obtidos foi testada através de an´álise flexural e o resultado foi satisfatório, mostrando que a ICM flexural e a ICM gravimétrica estão em concordância. Prosseguindo para etapa seguinte, o efeito gravimétrico da ICM encontrada por análise flexural e o efeito gravimétrico dos sedimentos foram então calculados e subtraídos da anomalia Bouguer original. O campo residual assim obtido, que se admite representar as feições topográficas do embasamento, foi invertido na última etapa do trabalho, fornecendo informações que mostram um embasamento com feições topográficas de até 700 m, que parecem estar em concordância com feições tectônicas discutidas em trabalhos pretéritos, como por exemplo a cadeia vulcânica Avedis. A profundidade do embasamento estimada durante este trabalho mostrou profundidades que vão desde 1.500 a 10.500 m, sendo que a região mais profunda corresponde à falha de Cabo Frio. Este trabalho demonstrou que, a partir de uma análise combinada de dados, é possível obter um modelo tridimensional do embasamento. O método, por ser não sísmico, pode ser vantajoso em questões de eficiência. O conhecimento deste embasamento é crucial na identificação de feições tectônicas, enquanto as informações sobre sua profundidade e topografia podem oferecer importantes subsídios para a elaboração de modelos genéticos e tectônicos de interesse exploratório na região.Palavras-chave: embasamento, Bacia de Santos, gravimetria.

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