MicroSeismic

MicroSeismic, Inc. operates as a geophysical service company, offering real-time monitoring and mapping of subsurface activities for the energy sector and beyond. Founded in 2003 by Dr. Peter M. Duncan, the Houston-based firm introduced the application of passive seismic monitoring to the oil and gas industry, particularly for hydraulic fracturing operations. Dr. Duncan, who holds a Ph.D. in Geophysics, leveraged his extensive experience from roles at Shell Canada, Digicon Geophysical, and as a founder of 3DX Technologies Inc., to pioneer the use of microseismic data for visualizing fracture networks. This approach was instrumental during the shale boom, enabling operators to optimize resource extraction and enhance safety.

The company's core business revolves around providing completions evaluation services by listening to low-energy seismic noise emitted from reservoirs during stimulation. Its client base consists primarily of oil and gas companies seeking to understand reservoir response to treatments and improve economic outcomes. MicroSeismic generates revenue through its specialized monitoring services and data analytics platforms. The business model is centered on deploying surface, near-surface, and downhole sensor arrays to capture microseismic events in real-time. This data is then analyzed to provide actionable insights for clients.

MicroSeismic's service offerings have expanded from their initial focus on hydraulic fracturing to include monitoring for CO2 sequestration, enhanced geothermal systems, sinkhole detection, and pipeline integrity. The company utilizes proprietary technology, such as its BuriedArray for permanent near-surface monitoring and advanced data analysis platforms like FracRx, which integrates multi-physics data to provide prescriptive solutions. A key benefit of their surface-based monitoring is the ability to operate in environmentally sensitive or hard-to-reach areas without downhole equipment. This methodology provides comprehensive imaging of fracture networks, helping operators optimize well spacing, completion design, and overall production while mitigating risks like induced seismicity.

Keywords: microseismic monitoring, passive seismic, hydraulic fracture monitoring, geophysics services, reservoir characterization, subsurface imaging, completion optimization, CO2 sequestration monitoring, enhanced geothermal systems, sinkhole detection, oil and gas exploration, energy services, real-time seismic data, fracture network mapping, stimulation evaluation, wellbore stability, asset integrity monitoring, environmental monitoring, geophysical data analysis, energy technology