A new hydrocarbon prospect determination using the seismic interpretation and petrophysical evaluation of Bahariya reservoir in Nader field, north Western Desert, Egypt

Abstract

The goal of this research is to assess the hydrocarbon potential of Bahariya reservoirs in Nader Field of Khalda Ridge concession in the northern part of Western Desert, which had never been addressed before. This study is based on using a complete set of well-logs of four wells and twenty 2D seismic lines, where both the Upper and Lower Bahariya members were evaluated as hydrocarbon-bearing sandstone reservoirs in the Nader Field. Seismic interpretations were used to clarify the structural settings of the tops of these members. These members' time-and-depth-structure maps reveal a variety of structural features which aid in hydrocarbon prospect identification in the area. The interpretation of the depth structure contour maps clearly defines NW-SE fault trend. The petrophysical evaluation includes lithology identification and determinations of petrophysical parameters such as effective porosity (PHIE), net-pay thickness, water saturation (Sw), shale content (Vsh), and hydrocarbon saturation (Sh). The computed petrophysical parameters of the Upper Bahariya reservoir reveal that it has a PHIE range of 13–24%, Sw of 53.7–92%, and Vsh of 12.5–23%. On the other hand, the computed petrophysical parameters of the Lower Bahariya reservoir reveal that it has a PHIE range of 14–23%, Sw of 35–89%, and Vsh of 12.1–18%. The Sh averages 46.3% for the Upper Bahariya and 65% for the Lower Bahariya. The maximum net-pay thickness is 33 foot in the Lower Bahariya reservoir and is 11 foot in the Upper Bahariya reservoir. The results of this study revealed three new proposed locations to the southeast and north of the investigated Nader Field. These locations lie on four- or three-way dip structural closures that are suitable for petroleum accumulations. These potential locations also exhibit decreasing in Vsh and Sw, and increasing in net pay, PHIE, and Sh in both Upper and Lower Bahariya reservoirs. As a result, it is advised to pay more attention to exploration efforts on new promising locations for more economical petroleum discoveries.