Permeability estimation in a multi-fractured top seal

Permeability of fracture media is one of the most important parameters characterising fluid flow, but it requires a detailed knowledge of fractures and fracture networks distribution. The unique exposures north to Santa Cruz represents a rare opportunity to observe and fully investigate a recently active bitumen-bearing fractured top seal. Permeability of a fracture network depends on the statistical distribution of fracture length, aperture, orientation, and density. Those fracture attributes are related to the permeability properties though a tensor (the Permeability Tensor). The statistical methods presented here for collecting and analysing fracture attributes shows how to obtain a more accurate data set directly collecting fracture attributes from fields, and how those features are fundamental for estimating permeability in a multi-fractured system.