3D inversion of gravity data by simulated annealing: applications to base of salt imaging in the Gulf of Mexico

In this work we apply a highly optimized three-dimensional gravity inversion method based on simulated annealing to the imaging of salt structures in the Gulf of Mexico. The initial input solution was constrained by using a previously interpreted seismic velocity model and all the available geologic information. Conversion of seismic velocities into densities lead to an initial determination of salt distribution in depth. This work is devoted to explore the applicability of high resolution gravity imaging as an auxiliary tool to constrain velocity models for prestack depth migration (PSDM). PSDM can provide an accurate estimation of top of salt bodies. Estimation of base of salt (and geometry distribution of salt) most of the times is not an easy task for PSDM alone. Results from this work show that PSDM can be combined with potential field modeling in three dimensions in order to improve estimation of base of salt bodies in the Gulf of Mexico.