Pore pressure prediction using geophysical methods in carbonate reservoirs: Current status, challenges and way ahead

• The pore pressure (PP) prediction for carbonate reservoir is still a challenge.
• Reliable velocity/elastic moduli-effective stress models are bases for PP prediction.
• PP prediction in real time by MWD/LWD data benefits the safe drilling in carbonates.

Reliable prediction of pore pressure (PP) is critically important to petroleum engineering at different stages. Currently PP prediction in carbonate reservoir is still far from satisfaction, and there is no specific method widely accepted. This paper discussed the current status, challenges, and way ahead of the PP prediction in carbonate reservoirs, and focused on the geophysical models related to the prediction, aiming to provide a valuable reference and promote its developments. With better understandings of the complicated physical properties resulting from the complex pore system and heterogeneity, PP prediction in carbonates with more confidence and higher resolution can be acquired.