An algorithm for 3D simulation of branchwork karst networks using Horton parameters and 𝒜★ Application to a synthetic case
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Pauline Collon-Drouaillet, Vincent Henrion, Jeanne Pellerin, 2012. "An algorithm for 3D simulation of branchwork karst networks using Horton parameters and 𝒜★ Application to a synthetic case", Advances in Carbonate Exploration and Reservoir Analysis, J. Garland, J. E. Neilson, S. E. Laubach, K. J. Whidden
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Abstract
This paper presents a method to stochastically simulate 3D karstic networks and more specifically branchwork pattern cave systems. Considering that they can be compared with 3D fluvial networks, the topological classification of Strahler and the corresponding ratios of Horton are used to define three morphometric parameters. These parameters are integrated in an algorithm that computes branches hierarchically to obtain a final network organized around the main observed inlet and outlet with a branching complexity controlled by the user. Each branch corresponds to a low-cost path between two points calculated with the 𝒜★ graph search algorithm. Speleogenetic information on inception horizons, palaeo-water tables and fractures is accounted for by adapted definitions of the searching functions of 𝒜★. The method is demonstrated on a 3D synthetic case with discrete fractures networks, inception horizons and a palaeo-water table. The simulated karsts have a realistic geometry and are geologically consistent.
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Contents
Advances in Carbonate Exploration and Reservoir Analysis

Carbonate reservoirs contain an increasingly important percentage of the world's hydrocarbon reserves. This volume presents key recent advances in carbonate exploration and reservoir analysis. As well as a comprehensive overview of the trends in carbonate over the years, the volume focuses on four key areas:
emerging plays and techniques – with special reference to lacustrine plays in syn-rift basins and development of super-giant heavy oil plays
improved reservoir characterization – with examples from the Middle East and Europe and case studies of how outcrop analogues can provide key data for input to geological models
impact of fractures and faults in carbonates –contributors highlight the need for integrated structural and diagenetic approaches in order to understand how fractures evolve as fluid-flow conduits
advances in geomodelling of carbonate reservoirs –several papers discuss the application of new and innovative geomodelling and geostatistical techniques to carbonate reservoirs.