Reservoir compartmentalization, whether structural or stratigraphic, is one of the most prominent parameter for accurately characterizing the distribution of hydrocarbons in the subsurface and it is a key element for optimizing hydrocarbon recovery. In order to accurately characterize its compartmentalization, a new volume-based structural modeling technique have been applied for generating a geocellular model of the complex, highly faulted east flank of the studied field (Sabah, Malyasia). Benefits over existing pillar-based and surface-based techniques are discussed.

The volume-based modeling technique consists of interpolating a continuous 3D property representing the relative stratigraphic age of the formations from all available well and seismic interpretation data. A watertight structural framework composed of faults and horizon surfaces is then extracted from this property, and converted to a geocellular grid in which the faults are stair-stepped. New workflows were developed for early integration of fluid distribution and production data during the creation of the geological framework, leading to an accurate delineation of fault compartments.