Abstract
Analyses of 310 crude oils from formations ranging in age from Cambrian to Cretaceous were studied to correlate the geologic occurrence of these oils with such characteristics as composition by hydrocarbon type (aromatics, naphthenes, and paraffins), content of gasoline and gas oil (determined by distillation and refractometric methods), distillate yield and residuum, sulfur and nitrogen contents, and cloud points. Five general categories, based on likenesses that may indicate a similar history, include most of the oils, but smaller groupings are also discussed. Average values for each of the categories are given below. Table Category I (Ellenburger and Simpson oils): The Simpson shale is considered as a likely source. Category II (a few Ellenburger and Simpson oils, Fusselman, Devonian, Mississippian, Pennsylvanian, Wolfcamp, a few Yeso oils): Probable sources are dark basinal shales of Woodford, Mississippian, Pennsylvanian, and Wolfcamp age, commonly associated with unconformities. Category III (Yeso and San Andres oils): These occur commonly now on the Northwest and Eastern shelves where sulfate content is high. Category IV (Spraberry, Delaware Mountain, some Wolfcamp and Yeso oils): These are relatively unaltered oils, associated with or derived from basinal shales. Category V (San Andres, Grayburg, Queen, Seven Rivers, Yates, Rustler, Castile, Cretaceous oils): These oils appear altered. Reaction with sulfur, fresh water leaching of volatile aromatics, and microbial oxidation of wax are suggested as reasons for the alteration.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: 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.