Abstract
Isotopic composition characteristics and the significance of immature and low-mature oils are first systematically discussed. The carbon isotopes of the whole oil can be divided into two groups, one has δ13C main peak values ranging from -30‰ to -29 and the other from -27‰ to-25‰, they are related to lacustrine and salt-lake facies or swamp facies, respectively. The carbon isotopic fractionation among different group components is relatively small, usually less than 2‰ and the biggest difference in fractionation often occurs between saturated and aromatic fractions. Their δD values vary between -180‰ and -130‰ The main peak of their δD values concentrates between -170‰ and -150‰, suggesting a domination of lacustrine fades. However, the secondary peak ranges from -160‰ to -150‰, showing a frequent salinization of paleo-water bodies. The average δ13C values of the methane vary between -50‰ and -52‰, about 10‰ lighter than those of mature oils. There is a relatively good correlationship between immature and low-mature oils and their source rocks in carbon isotopic compositions of group fractions and monohydrocarbons; moreover, compared with the source rocks of mature oils, that of immature oils is often relatively depleted in13C, which is one of the characteristics of immature oils, differing from those of mature oils.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
