Application of seismic sedimentology in lithostratigraphic trap exploration: A case study from Banqiao Sag, Bohai Bay Basin, China

Abstract

A method of identifying lithostratigraphic traps based on seismic sedimentology is proposed. We first establish a 3D high-resolution (fifth-order) sequence stratigraphic framework by using the stratal slices. Then, the reservoir distribution and reservoir-seal assemblage are investigated within the high-resolution sequence framework. This method turns the interpretation of lithostratigraphic traps from traditional seismic facies-based approach to the dynamic analysis of high-resolution seismic geomorphic information. We divide the lower Sha-1 member in the Banqiao Sag, Bohai Bay Basin, East China, into fourth- and fifth-order sequences by applying our method. The fifth-order sequence corresponding to Sha1-2 shows that the fan delta-distal subaqueous fan depositional system can be observed at the bottom of Sha1-2. The bounding fault and paleogeomorphology control the deposition of sand, whereas the sand bodies in the fan delta and distal subaqueous fan are developed near the bounding fault and the open lake basin, respectively. We then predict the sand thickness based on the well logs and seismic amplitudes. Moreover, according to the structural features, at least four lithostratigraphic traps are identified. These traps form a good reservoir-seal assemblage with overlying mudstones deposited during the period of lacustrine level rising. The drilling results in Trap-3 suggest that, our method can be a method of choice for effectively identifying the lithostratigraphic traps, a significant measure for hydrocarbon exploration.