Indian experts find AI-based technique that can help in oil and gas exploration

Scientists and experts at the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG) have come up with a new artificial intelligence (AI) based technique to analyse data from seismic waves (natural or induced by explosive material) to ascertain the type of rock formation and geological features beneath the surface which could help in exploring hydrocarbons like oil and natural gas in less time with high efficiency. The technique was first tested by WIHG scientists in the Taranaki Basin of New Zealand.

The research on the new technique was conducted by WIHG director Kalachand Sain and WIHG’s other research associate Priyadarshi Chinmoy Kumar. Their research on the technique named ‘Machine learning tool for interpretation of Mass Transport Deposits from seismic data’ was published in the noted journal Nature Scientific Report on August 24.

Terming the new technique a very significant one, the researchers claimed that they have received several requests from foreign countries like Norway, UK, Australia and others to get access to it. Similarly, some India-based oil and natural gas exploration companies have also contacted them to share the research on the new technique.