Assessment of Atmospheric Liquid Hydrocarbon Properties (API/Viscosity) Based On Reservoir Cutting Analyses (Middle East Oil Field)

Abstract

Summary A giant offshore oil field in Middle East is characterized by significant vertical and lateral heterogeneity in hydrocarbon compositions (API gravities ranging from 16 to 38 °API). To better understand the fluid properties distribution in the field, we have developed a fluid mapping approach based on reservoir cutting extract analyses. We have used liquid-chromatography analyses (GPC-UV: Gel Permeation Chromatography – UV detector) to characterise the reservoir fluids extracted from cuttings and we have established a relationship between the GPC-UV signals and some produced oil properties such as the API gravity. This new approach can be used for a continuous logging of dead oil properties along the several kilometres long horizontal well transects. Using our reservoir fluid mapping approach, we aim to better understand the processes responsible for these compositional variations in the field.