Identification of hydrocarbon-bearing zones within the early cretaceous reservoir rocks using well logging and seismic reflection data in Al-Baraka field, West Komombo, Egypt

Abstract

Al-Baraka is the first explored oil field in the Komombo basin. The formation and evolution of Komombo basin were influenced by tectonic processes from the pre-early Cretaceous period. The main objectives of this study are to; identify hydrocarbon potential in this remote part of Egypt, evaluate and determine the interesting zones within the early cretaceous rocks for hydrocarbon accumulations in Al-Baraka reservoir. Using well logging data, the stratigraphic section and reservoir extent of Al-Baraka field were examined. Three-dimensional geometrical and structural models were also created using seismic reflection data. Al-Baraka reservoir rocks are made up of non-marine sands and shales that were accumulated in a confined marine environment. By the careful interpretation of petrophysical data, different hydrocarbon-bearing zones (R2, R4, and R5) can be identified within west Al-Baraka-2 well. These zones were recognized in the Six Hills Formation members E and F of the early Cretaceous. Petrophysical analyses showed that these zones have moderate to good porosity (18.2–20.1%), low shale distribution (8.5–20%), and high average hydrocarbon saturation (42.5%) with high movability. Five zones were recognized based on the interpretation of 3D geometrical modeling. 3D structural modeling shows lateral extension and thickness variation controlled by the effect of faulting. The exploration of hydrocarbon in Komombo basin will contribute to the exploration of more rift basins in southern Egypt.