Application of optical-fiber temperature logging - An example in a sedimentary environment

Continuous‐temperature depth logs, especially when recorded in boreholes under thermal equilibrium conditions, provide detailed information of the subsurface thermal structure, which is necessary for the determination of reliable heat‐flow and rock thermal properties. In conjunction with independent thermal‐conductivity determinations, thermal logging data also allow the separation of heat conduction effects from thermal convection effects by fluid flow driven by various pressure differences such as pore fluid pressure. The Earth's thermal field is related intimately to geothermal resources and hydrocarbon resources. Therefore, the characterization of temperature in the subsurface and its relationship to lithology is of critical importance.