Sequence Stratigraphy and Source Rock Potential of the Aptian (Bab Member) in East Onshore Abu Dhabi: A Model Approach to Oil Exploration

Abstract

ABSTRACT A new geologic model of the Aptian Bab Member (Shuaiba Fm.) have been built, in East Onshore Abu Dhabi, using sequence stratigraphy and biostratigrapby. The model reveals that the Shuaiba is subdivided into two sequences (Upper and Lower). The first sequence is comprised of transgressive and highstand systems tract that can be distinguished in the Lower Shuaiba of Early Aptian age. The second sequence, the Upper Shuaiba, consists of deeper intrashelf basin sediments comprising a transgressive and highstand systems tract of Late Aptian age. A practical modeling on the Shuaiba Fm. for identifying and calculating Total Organic Carbon (TOC) content and it’s thermal maturity have been adopted using well logs. The modeling indicated that the upper part of Lower Shuaiba (basinal facies) is a prolific, mature source rock especially in the northern part of the study area. Volumetric calculations for Shuaiba source rock indicated that most of the Upper Thamama oils have been generated and migrated from the mature Shuaiba source.