Fractured reservoir distribution characterization using folding mechanism analysis and patterns recognition in the Tabnak hydrocarbon reservoir anticline

Abstract

Naturally, fractured reservoirs play a considerable part in the study, production, and development of hydrocarbon fields because most hydrocarbon reservoirs in the Zagros Basin are naturally fractured. Production from those reservoirs is usually affected by the presence of a system of connected fractures. In this study, the Tabnak hydrocarbon field on the fold–thrust belt at the Zagros zone in the Persian plate has been analyzed by the facies models, folding mechanism analysis to identify fracture reservoir patterns. The results show a flexural fold with similarity in the folding mechanism and some open fracture potential made by limestone, shale, clay, and anhydrite in the study area's facies models. Consequently, the stress pattern and type of fracture issue on the fold's upper and lower layers will be similar. On the Tabnak anticline reservoir using image processing techniques in MATLAB R2019 software and kriging geostatistical methods, fracture surface patterns as a block model extended to the depth. Using the model results, fractures’ orientation distribution in adjacent wells 11, 14, and 15 is appropriate. The results also have similarities with the facies models, folding mechanism assessment, well test, and mud loss data analysis. These results can affect the development plans’ primary approach by drilling horizontal and sleep wells and hydrocarbon reservoir management strategies.