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Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:22
Abstract
This introductory course on borehole geophysical methods covers the application of borehole logging and borehole-borehole and borehole-surface seismic, and radar imaging to rock mass and reservoir characterization. The principles of operation of various logging sondes will be covered as well as their application. The emphasis is on geotechnical rather than oil and gas well reservoir engineering.
Objective
The course will introduce students to modern borehole logging techniques with the emphasis on geotechnical rather than oil and gas well reservoir engineering. Although the principles of operation of the various sondes will be covered, the primary focus will be on application. For a given problem in a given environment, the students should be able to design a logging program that will furnish the requisite information. They will also be able to extract information on rock mass/reservoir properties by combining curves from a suite of logs. The students will also learn about surface-to-borehole and borehole-to-borehole seismic methods for rock mass characterisation. This will include VSP and tomography.
Content
- General introduction to geophysical logging - Discussion of various logging types including - Caliper logs - Televiewer logs - Flowmeter and temperature logs - Resistivity logs - Nuclear logs - Sonic logs - Suface-to-borehole and borehole-to-borehole methods - Instrumentation - Vertical seismic profiling - Crosshole tomography - Applications
Resources
Lecture Notes
A pdf copy of the lecture will be posted on the course website no later than the day before each class.
Literature
Well logging for physical properties (A handbook for Geophysicists, Geologists and Engineers), 2nd Edition, Hearst, J.R., Nelson, P.H. and F.L. Paillet, John Wiley and Son, 2001. - Out of print. Well logging for Earth Scientists, Ellis, D.V. and J.M. Singer, 2nd Edition, Springer, 2007. In print - cost Euro 33.
Learning Materials (Links)
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Borehole Geophysics |
|
35 h semesterly |