Optimizing 3D seismic parameters in congested oil fields: A systematic and bibliometric review of research progress and challenges

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) seismic parameter optimization has become an essential component of subsurface imaging, especially in oil fields where space, safety, and environmental restrictions limit conventional survey design. This study critically reviews and synthesizes 87 English-language publications on 3D seismic parameter optimization retrieved from the Scopus database. The analysis combined a systematic literature review with bibliometric mapping, using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and Biblioshiny software to identify thematic patterns, research clusters, and methodological gaps. The results show that global research on 3D seismic optimization has grown steadily from 2003 to 2025, reflecting an increasing emphasis on survey efficiency and sustainable exploration. Early studies focused on geometric configuration and fold distribution, whereas recent works integrate environmental safety, vibration control, and cost efficiency. Three major thematic clusters were identified: Geometric and operational optimization, congestion and environmental management, and the integration of emerging sensing and modeling technologies. Despite this progress, most studies lack standardized congestion metrics, quantitative vibration thresholds, and comprehensive economic evaluations. The review concludes that 3D seismic optimization has evolved into a multidisciplinary framework that connects geometry, environmental protection, and operational safety. Future research should adopt measurable congestion indices, integrate distributed acoustic sensing technologies, and strengthen academic-industry collaboration to promote reproducible, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible seismic survey design.

Keywords

3D seismic optimization / Survey design / Congested oil fields / Vibration control / Sustainable exploration

Acknowledgments

The authors gratefully acknowledge the contributions of researchers and practitioners whose published works formed the basis of this systematic and bibliometric review. Their efforts have advanced the understanding of 3D seismic parameter optimization in congested oil field environments. The authors also acknowledge the support of colleagues at the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, who provided academic resources, bibliographic access, and technical guidance during the preparation of this manuscript.

Funding

None.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that there are no known financial or personal relationships that could have influenced the work reported in this paper.

Author contributions

Conceptualization: Frank O. Ofowena, Akhmal Sidek

Formal analysis: Frank O. Ofowena

Investigation: Frank O. Ofowena, Akhmal Sidek, Yasir Bashir

Methodology: Frank O. Ofowena, Mingtao Nie

Writing–original draft: Frank O. Ofowena

Writing–review & editing: Frank O. Ofowena, Mingtao Nie

Availability of data

Not applicable.

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