In this paper, a modification of an existing method for estimating relative
P-wave attenuation is proposed. By generating synthetic waveforms without
attenuation, the variation of geometrical spreading related to changes in f
ormation properties with depth can be accounted for. With the modified meth
od, reliable P- and S-wave attenuation logs can be extracted from monopole
array acoustic waveform log data. Synthetic tests show that the P- and S-wa
ve attenuation values estimated from synthetic waveforms agree well with th
eir respective model values.
In-situ P- and S-wave attenuation profiles provide valuable information abo
ut reservoir rock properties. Field data processing results show that this
method gives robust estimates of intrinsic attenuation. The attenuation pro
files calculated independently from each waveform of an eight-receiver arra
y are consistent with one another. In fast formations where S-wave velocity
exceeds the borehole fluid velocity, both P-wave attenuation (Q(p)(-1)) an
d S-wave attentuation (Q(s)(-1)) profiles can be obtained. P- and S-wave at
tenuation profiles and their comparisons are presented for three reservoirs
. Their correlations with formation lithology, permeability, and fractures
are also presented.