Maximum accuracy

Knowing where to start before beginning: the first secret of Eni’s exploration success is its technology for the study of the subsurface. Exploration is the first phase in the oil cycle, with the subsequent aim to collect all the relevant information to identify the best opportunities. This is done by integrating knowledge of different scientific disciplines and developing and using cutting-edge technologies. The key issue is the accuracy with which we investigate the subsurface to reduce uncertainty about the location of new deposits, operating in a sustainable and effective way. At the same time, we also intend to reduce the environmental impact of operations, optimising the lead time and costs of the exploration cycle.

Knowing the subsurface

Successful oil exploration means being able to construct an accurate image of the subsurface from which to identify the rock strata that, over millions of years, have trapped volumes of oil and gas. To do this you need to reconstruct as accurately as possible the geological events that have taken place in the areas under investigation. To reduce the number of exploration wells, lead times, costs and the impact on the territory, Eni has developed appropriate technologies to improve the accuracy of subsurface investigation techniques to identify new opportunities. There are two main areas which are constantly being developed through the activities of Eni’s research and development division: geological modelling and the processing of geophysical data.

Geological modelling

TestoThe geological study of the evolution of sedimentary basins is an important factor for success in oil exploration. Thanks to advanced techniques, geological modelling can be used to reconstruct the evolution of those basins and the geometries and lithology that constitute them. In this way, Eni is able to successfully identify the areas with greater exploratory potential.

Processing geophysical data

A fundamental contribution to successful exploration comes from the possibility of having detailed images that reproduce the subsurface, even thousands of metres deep, which in turn make it possible to refine the geological models. To do this, Eni uses advanced proprietary technologies for the processing and interpretation of geophysical data. These are sophisticated systems based on complex mathematical algorithms developed by Eni that make it possible to focus on the subsurface structure via three-dimensional high-resolution images in both onshore and marine areas. Using these algorithms requires enormous computing power, which is why Eni has adopted and constantly updates one of the most powerful super-computers in the oil industry.