Integrated surface geochemical and seismic surveys for hydrocarbon exploration - A case study from southern Poland

Abstract

Surface geochemical surveys were carried out in the Pawłosiów area in the eastern part of the Carpathian Foredeep. The research included an analysis of the molecular composition of soil gas samples as well as measurements of the calcite content, magnetic susceptibility and pH of soil samples. The results obtained were integrated with a geological-seismic model. Changes in the concentrations of total alkanes C2–C5 in relation to changes in indirect geochemical indicators showed “compensatory” character. This means that in places where alkane concentrations were increasing, negative anomalies of magnetic susceptibility and a decrease in pH values were observed. It may be related to the intensity of the oxidation processes or reduction of the magnetic minerals in, as well as the reduced permeability of, the Miocene layers in the zones analysed. Moreover, the complex geochemical-geophysical interpretation showed a zone of anomalous values of the total C2–C5 alkanes in the Pawłosiów area, which is suitable for prospecting. The research performed proved that a thorough analysis of the seismic record allowing subtle DHI anomalies appearing within the Miocene formations to be located, combined with the use of direct and indirect geochemical indicators, can help in identifying an area in terms of hydrocarbon potential. This applies in particular to this type of foreland basin, within which geological formations lie flat, and positive structures (anticlines) are hardly visible in seismic sections. In this type of structure, hydrocarbons can be accumulated in traps of a hybrid character (conventional and unconventional). The extensive zone of geochemical and geophysical anomalies found in the area of Pawłosiów may indicate the presence of this type of hydrocarbon accumulation.Comprehensive research, including direct and indirect geochemical methods in combination with a seismic survey, allows for a better assessment of the hydrocarbon potential of the studied area.