Full Wave Acoustic Logging: Some Examples

ABSTRACT More information about formation properties than is commonly utilized is available in the acoustic signal. The objective of full-wave acoustic logging is to use more of this information to determine formation properties. Full-wave acoustic tools generally have transmitter-to-receiver spacings greater than about eight feet. This provides deeper penetration and facilitates signal analysis. Full-wave acoustic signals are briefly discussed. Shear wave slowness, or Δts, is one of the most important new acoustic logging measurements. Used with ∆tp, ∆ts provides basic log quantities for lithology identification, gas zone identification, estimation of lithology and porosity with acoustic logs only, and improved formation elastic property estimation.