Geochemistry and origins of hydrogen-containing natural gases in deep Songliao Basin, China: Insights from continental scientific drilling

Abstract

The different reservoirs in deep Songliao Basin have non-homogeneous lithologies and include multiple layers with a high content of hydrogen gas. The gas composition and stable isotope characteristics vary significantly, but the origin analysis of different gas types has previously been weak. Based on the geochemical parameters of gas samples from different depths and the analysis of geological settings, this research covers the diverse origins of natural gas in different strata. The gas components are mainly methane with a small amount of C2+, and non-hydrocarbon gases, including nitrogen (N2), hydrogen (H2), carbon dioxide (CO2), and helium (He). At greater depth, the carbon isotope of methane becomes heavier, and the hydrogen isotope points to a lacustrine sedimentary environment. With increasing depth, the origins of N2 and CO2 change gradually from a mixture of organic and inorganic to inorganic. The origins of hydrogen gas are complex and include organic sources, water radiolysis, water-rock (Fe2+-containing minerals) reactions, and mantle-derived. The shales of Denglouku and Shahezi Formations, as source rocks, provide the premise for generation and occurrence of organic gas. Furthermore, the deep faults and fluid activities in Basement Formation control the generation and migration of mantle-derived gas. The discovery of a high content of H2 in study area not only reveals the organic and inorganic association of natural-gas generation, but also provides a scientific basis for the exploration of deep hydrogen-rich gas.