Seismic Interferometry for Marine Leak Detection - Controlled Release Experiment at Oseberg

In 2016 a controlled release experiment was jointly conducted by Shell and Statoil at the Oseberg PRM installation to evaluate the possibility of using passive seismic interferometry methods to detect and locate CO2 or hydrocarbon gas emissions to sea. The intention was to efficiently monitor CO2 storage sites, as well as ensuring safe operations and early hydrocarbon leak detection at producing oil fields. In contrast to leak detection systems based on active sonar technology, this method would leverage existing permanent reservoir monitoring (PRM) for both reservoir and containment monitoring purposes without requiring additional source mobilization. The interferometry results showed no clear and easily detectable effects from the generated bubble curtain. Potential reasons for this range from non-stationary vessel noise, location and strength of the line source, and large number of fish attracted by the release.