Implication Linkage among Microfacies, Diagenesis, and Reservoir Properties of Sandstones: A Case Study of Dongying Formation, Nanpu Sag, Bohai Bay Basin

Abstract

The reservoir quality of sandstones is significantly impacted and transformed by sedimentation and diagenesis. It is necessary to clarify the internal relationship among them to precisely predict the sweet reservoir. In this study, five types of sedimentary microfacies are recognized through core observation and logging data: submerged distributary channel (fan delta), submerged interdistributary bay, submerged distributary channel (braided delta), distal bar, and turbidite fan. The major diagenetic processes, including compaction, cementation, and dissolution, have been analyzed based on petrography, scanning electron microscopy, and X-Ray diffraction. The dominant diagenetic cement includes calcite, smectite, kaolinite, illite, and I/S mixed-layer minerals, with small quantities of chlorite, pyrite, siderite, feldspar, and quartz cement. The reservoir quality is best in the submerged distributary channel (fan delta) sandstones, followed by submerged distributary channel (braided delta). Submerged interdistributary bay, distal bar, and turbidite fan are of poor reservoir quality. The grain size is the primary reservoir quality controlling factor, highly affected by sedimentary microfacies. Subsequent controls are diagenetic processes such as mechanical compaction, clay minerals formation, grain replacement, and dissolution that collectively influence the porosity and permeability.