Deep Exploration Wells Research Articles

Integrated analysis of the Neogene–Quaternary Valdera‐Volterra Basin (Northern Apennines). Evidence for composite development of hinterland basins

AbstractThe Neogene and Quaternary hinterland basins of the Northern Apennine have been the subject of different tectonic interpretations. Several studies considered these basins as the result of polyphase normal faulting framed in a continuous crustal extensional regime since the middle Miocene. On the contrary, geophysical and geological studies provided evidence of the important role played by out‐of‐sequence thrusts and backthrusts in the evolution of these basins during a prolongated and intense period of shortening. Here we present an integrated analysis of 2D stacked seismic reflection profiles, stratigraphic and geophysical data from deep exploration wells, gravity data, and published geological and biostratigraphic data for the Valdera‐Volterra basin (central Tuscany, Italy). The results support a polyphase and composite evolution of the basin, subdivided into three main phases. During the late Tortonian–Zanclean, the growth of major thrust‐related anticlines controlled the evolution of the sedimentary basin. The growth of a syncline determined the creation of accommodation space for the sediments. This main compressional deformation occurred during the Messinian and ended during the Late Zanclean. NE migration of the depocentre during the Early Zanclean was identified, likely possibly due to a differential activity growth between the bordering anticlines. During the Piacenzian, an extensional phase has been recognised, superposed to the previous compressive phase. During the Latest Piacenzian–Early Pleistocene (?), a final compressional phase took place resulting in the positive inversion of the Piacenzian WSW dipping main border fault.

The occurrence of coalbed methane in the depocentre of the Upper Silesian Coal Basin in the light of the research from the Orzesze-1 deep exploratory well

The Orzesze-1 exploratory well with a depth of 3708 m (TVD) was drilled in 2019–2020 in the depocentre of the Upper Silesian Coal Basin (USCB). The methane content in the coal seams has been tested to a depth of 2840 m and the sorption capacity of the coal to a depth of 2576 m. These are the deepest measurements in the USCB so far. The vertical distribution of methane content in the borehole shows two depth zones of interest, the first at a depth 883 m to about 1300 m (maximum methane content about 12 m3/t coaldaf) and another in the range of 1500–2840 m, that is, to the maximum measurement depth, so the actual lower boundary depth of this zone is unknown. The maximum methane content here exceeds 18 m3/t coaldaf at a depth of >2800 m. Both zones are separated by an interval of reduced methane content of about 5 m3/t coaldaf at a depth of approximately 1400 m. The gas composition is dominated by methane (∼90%), and the content of carbon dioxide increases to approximately 15% at a depth of >2300 m. The methane-bearing zone at ∼900–1300 m corresponds to the zone of high- and medium-volatile bituminous coal (second coalification jump), while the highest methane content at a depth of >2800 m was determined in anthracite. The methane sorption capacity of the coal seams oscillates between 16 and 40 m3/t coaldaf with a maximum in anthracite at a depth of >2800 m, where the temperature of the rock approaches 100 °C and the deposit pressure exceeds 28 MPa. The highest sorption capacity in anthracite results from its inner structure characterised by the predominance of ordered aromatic lamellas and the dominance of vitrinite macerals (>70%), which contain coal micropores accumulating adsorbed methane. The comparison of the sorption capacity of the tested coal and the measured methane content displays undersaturation of 11–59%, however, due to significant gas content in the deep zone (depth > 1500 m), the drilling area can be considered as a prospect for further exploration and development of coalbed methane (CBM).

Effect of pumping in a coastal aquifer of limited thickness, Buenos Aires, Argentina

In the northern sector of the Partido de La Costa, Argentina, the chemical quality of the groundwater was analyzed in the water supply area of the water utility cooperative. This resource is the only water source for consumption and is extremely vulnerable to contamination, both from the surface and from salinization processes. The impact of pumping was assessed to ensure the sustainable management of the water resources. Deep exploration wells were drilled, a monitoring network was implemented and water samples were obtained for chemical analysis. Continuously recording sensors were installed in the wells and geoelectrical methods were applied (vertical electrical soundings, electrical tomography). A chemical zonation was found at depth with a transition at 6 m. Calcium bicarbonate type water was identified above such a limit (Zone A) and sodium chloride type water below (Zone B), whose anion and cation concentrations exceed the limits set for drinking quality. In the sector where water extraction is most intensive, a deterioration of the chemical quality has been observed as a result of the salinization of the wells by water originating from Zone B. This phenomenon was identified by every method used. Electrical tomography allowed the measurement of the surface area defined by data of the individual wells. A reversal of the conductivity values occurred after the redistribution of the wells, which has been verified by the methods applied. A series of recommendations are offered to service providers for a more efficient management of the resources. The monitoring of the extraction areas is an essential tool to avoid processes of deterioration of the water resource.

Laptev Rift System Composite Tectono-Sedimentary Element, East Siberian Arctic

Abstract The Laptev Sea in the East Siberian Arctic is characterized by a system of extensional structures known as the Laptev Rift System (LRS), developed at the continental prolongation of an active divergent plate boundary - the Gakkel spreading ridge. The LRS hosts as much as 13–14 km of siliciclastic sedimentary strata of supposedly Late Cretaceous to Recent age. The strata accumulated atop of stretched and thinned continental crust that before the rifting onset was a complex tectonic juncture of Late Paleozoic/Early Mesozoic Taimyr and Late Mesozoic Verkhoyansk fold-and-thrust belts formed along the edges of the Siberian Palaeocontinent. In the context of this volume, the LRS is described as a composite tectono-sedimentary element that includes sedimentary rocks accumulated during pre-rift and syn-rift phases. The latter includes at least two syn-rift sedimentary cycles separated by a sedimentary succession formed during a stalled rift phase. In the absence of deep exploration wells, many aspects of the LRS geology and its petroleum prospects remain poorly constrained.

Occurrence and Potential for Coalbed Methane Extraction in the Depocenter Area of the Upper Silesian Coal Basin (Poland) in the Context of Selected Geological Factors

Coalbed methane (CBM) is the only unconventional gas in Poland with estimated recoverable resources. The prospects for developing deep CBM have been explored in recent years by drilling deep exploration wells within the depocenter of the Upper Silesian Coal Basin. The purpose of this study is to analyze the occurrence and potential for CBM extraction in this area of the basin, which can be considered prospective due to the confirmed presence of significant amounts of gas and thick coal seams at depths > 1500 m. The study examined the vertical and horizontal variability of the gas content in the studied area, the coal rank in the seams, thermal conditions, and coal reservoir parameters. The gas content in the seams, reaching more than 18 m3/t coaldaf at a depth of 2840 m, and indicative estimated gas resources of 9 billion m3 were found. The high gas content is accompanied by positive thermal and coal rank anomalies. The permeability and methane saturation of the coal seams are low, and therefore, potential methane production may prove problematic. However, the development of CBM extraction technologies involving directional drilling with artificial fracturing may encourage gas production testing in the study area.

The 3D Crustal Structure in the Epicentral Region of the 1980, Mw 6.9, Southern Apennines Earthquake (Southern Italy): New Constraints From the Integration of Seismic Exploration Data, Deep Wells, and Local Earthquake Tomography

AbstractWe present the first 3D crustal model of the epicentral region of the 1980, Mw 6.9, normal‐faulting Irpinia earthquake (southern Italy) determined by jointly interpreting the CROP‐04 deep seismic profile, a grid of commercial seismic lines, deep exploration wells, and a high‐resolution Local Earthquake Tomography. Despite numerous seismotectonic surveys and source studies of the background seismicity recorded by dense networks, a complete 3D geological model of the mid‐upper crust was still lacking in the region. The architecture of the Neogene fold‐and‐thrust belt is also debated, with competing thin‐ and thick‐skinned tectonic interpretations. We use the 3D geological model derived from subsurface exploration data to interpret the upper crustal tomographic velocities in terms of rock physical properties, while Vp and Vp/Vs anomalies provide inferences on the deep structural setting down to 12 km depth. We find that a thick‐skinned deformation style allows explaining the geometry of Pliocene fold‐and‐thrust systems deforming the Apulian carbonates but also deeper Permo‐Triassic metasediments and the Paleozoic crystalline femic basement. Inherited compressional structures and lithological heterogeneities control background seismicity occurring at two crustal levels. Fluid‐driven shallow seismicity (<4–6 km) concentrates in a high‐Vp/Vs wedge of fractured, brine‐saturated Mesozoic stiff rocks delimited by the 1980 earthquake faults. Deep seismicity (9–14 km) clusters instead within the low‐Vp/Vs crystalline basement underneath the Apulian carbonate ramp‐anticlines. Commercial seismic data allow us to identify the Irpinia Fault, the main fault ruptured by the 1980 earthquake, reinforcing its previous interpretations as an immature structure with subtle geological and geophysical evidence.

East Barents Basin and Admiralty High Composite Tectono-Sedimentary Elements, Barents Sea

Abstract The East Barents Sea (E Barents Sea) includes two major tectonic elements, the East Barents Basin (EB Basin) and the Admiralty High, which are, in the context of the volume, characterized as composite tectono-sedimentary elements. Whereas they share some stratigraphy, their early history may differ. The EB Basin is a dominant structural feature of the Barents Shelf, and one of the largest and deepest sedimentary basins in the Arctic. Admiralty High rims the EB Basin in the east. The advance in understanding the E Barents Sea geology was achieved during 1980s and 1990s mainly due to a significant amount of multichannel reflection seismic data and a number of drilled deep exploration wells. These wells tested many large anticlinal structures and made several large gas discoveries including a giant Shtokman gas and gas condensate accumulation. In the following decades, many important geological results were published in the international and Russian literature. In this chapter we provide a summary of the geology and petroleum geology of the E Barents Sea based on published results and public-domain geological reports.

An effective multiphysics toolkit for lithium prospecting: From geophysics to the static reservoir model in the Pozuelos salt flat, Argentina

Energy transition drives the energy sector to renewable energy and electrification, being the critical minerals key players in the industrial development map. They comprise rare-earth elements and 35 other elements, including lithium, which holds 60% of its world reserves in the so-called lithium triangle located in Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile. The low electrical resistivities, variations in salt concentrations, low acoustic impedances, and dynamics of the hydrogeologic system make brine monitoring a complex geophysical exploratory problem. So, the objective is to find a suitable combination of geophysical techniques that fit the lithium exploration objectives, which are the characterization of the salt flat in-depth, fluid detection, basement delineation, definition of the main structures and main faults, and detection of semifresh water aquifers that contribute to its recharge and that are key to the reservoir water balance of an endorheic basin, which has the resource in solution. For this purpose, the evaluation of several prospecting methods in different salt flats was executed, concluding that full tensor magnetotellurics (MT), electrical resistivity tomography, and gravity comprise a toolkit that fits the objectives set. The methodology was validated at the Pozuelos salt flat. The results show that the fresh water-brines contact and the recharge system were well-defined and imaged by ERT. The full tensor MT detected two ultraconductive units: a shallower multilayer system saturated with brines, has a 400 m thickness, whereas the deeper unit has a 500 m thickness. Both MT and gravity characterized the basement, and gravity successfully delineated the main structures. The geophysical interpretation is in concordance with shallow and deep exploration wells. Finally, the integration of geophysical and well data allowed the construction of a 3D static reservoir model that finds the deepest basement area at approximately 900 m depth and discriminates eight lithofacies.

Geocryological conditions of the Tokarikan and Guvilgra grabens (South Yakutia)

This article presents the results of geocryological studies of the Tokarikan and Guvilgra grabens of the Aldan Shield. Expedition research on the hard-to-rich region since 1996 has allowed us to determine the temperature regime, thickness, and nature of permafrost rock distribution and characterize its geocryological conditions for the first time. We have established that the lowest temperatures (up to –3.4 °С) are characteristic of peatmoss bog landscapes, whereas the highest (–0.5 °С) are for well-drained and watershed areas. The results of the measurements in deep wells, information on the process of drilling deep exploration wells, and the analysis of data on the thermophysical properties of rocks allowed us to estimate a permafrost thickness capacity that varied in the range of 40–260 m. The presented schematic permafrost and geological cross-sections and geocryological condition maps can be used to plan the industrial development of the territory.

Three-dimensional density model of the sedimentary filling of the Carpathian-Pannonian region

The work is devoted to the construction and calculations of a three-dimensional density model of the sedimentary filling of the Carpathian-Pannonian region in order to obtain a more detailed map of the residual gravity field (stripped gravity map). This research was facilitated by and in-depth analysis of a large amount of data highlighting the density properties of Neogene-Quaternary deposits (the Pannonian Basin, the Transylvanian Depression, the Transcarpathian Trough), molasse deposits of the Carpathian Foredeep and flysch deposits of the Outer Carpathians in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, and Ukraine. Basic data for the construction of a three-dimensional density model of sedimentary deposits were obtained from laboratory studies of rock samples from drill core logging and deep exploratory wells, as well as rock samples taken from numerous outcrops in the research region. The average value of the density for molasse and flysch deposits of the Romanian part of the Carpathians was estimated based on the results of comparing the lithologic-stratigraphic complexes of these deposits in the adjacent areas of the eastern part of the Ukrainian Carpathians with similar ones in the Romanian Eastern Carpathians and the analysis of available data on the density of the Carpathian Foredeep and the Outer Flysch Carpathians for the Ukrainian part. The research method, which is a modification of geological reduction, has been applied in the work. Its essence consists of the sequential calculation and extraction of the three-dimensional gravity effect of sedimentary layers, the parameterization of which is better defined than those layers that lie deeper, from the anomalous gravity field. As a result, a residual gravity field is formed due to deep inhomogeneities associated with the consolidated part of the crust and the upper mantle. Calculations of gravity effects were carried out on a scale of 1:4,000,000 on a 10—10 km grid using the modern GMT-Auto. The detailed map of the residual (cleared of the effects of sedimentary layers) gravity field of the Carpathian-Pannonian region (stripped gravity map) is an effective tool in understanding the sources of the dominant gravity features of the studied region. Thus, the Pannonian Basin manifests itself as a general maximum with a number of local positive anomalies (more than 50 mGal), which are observed over small depressions filled with low-density thick sedimentary deposits: the Danube, Solnok, Makó, Békés Basins, and the Transcarpathian Trough. The phenomenon of positive and not negative values of the residual gravity field for these structures can be explained by the intrusion of the sedimentary cover of volcanic rocks, or the presence of high-density bodies with a special petrophysical composition (metamorphic complexes?) in the consolidated part of the crust. Another reason may be the effect of the regional background, which is due to the rise of Moho boundary in the Pannonian Basin to 24—26 km. The gravity minimum of the Western Carpathians, which on the map of the anomalous gravity field, consists of two parts (northern and southern), is reflected by one intense minimum, the southern one (-60 mGal). The northern part of this gravity minimum is practically leveled after calculations of the gravity effect of sedimentary filling, so it can be assumed that its source is low-density flysch and molasse deposits. The southern part of the gravity minimum of the Western Carpathians can be explained by the mass deficit in the consolidated part of the crust. Since the intensity of the gravity lows of the Eastern (-80 mGal) and Southern (-100 mGal) Carpathians remained high even after being cleared of the effect of the layer of sedimentary deposits, it can be assumed that they are due not only to the low values of the density of the sediments of the Outer Carpathians and the Carpathian Foredeep, but additionally also due to the gravity effect of deep inhomogeneities of the consolidated part of the crust (crustal root).

Spatial distribution of Mesozoic deposits and their temperature ranges within the Weser-Wiehengebirge Syncline of the inverted Lower Saxony Basin, Minden area, Germany

Abstract. The provision of climate-neutral, sustainable, and independent heat sources is an essential part of the ongoing transformation of heating systems in Germany. The city of Minden, located at the junction of the river Weser and the Middleland Canal, with its strong industrial sector, faces a massive transition of how heat and energy will be provided for industrial processes as well as heating in the commercial and residential sectors. In our study, we evaluate the structural requirements for the exploitation and utilization of deep geothermal energy from regional Mesozoic rocks, which are known to source thermal springs in the greater Minden area, and geothermal projects in other parts of the North German Basin. The compilation of geological data, seismic data, and rock properties from wells is used to construct a regional structural model as well as temperature distributions based on depth uncertainties of the respective stratigraphic units. Our investigations indicate several stratigraphic units ranging from the Middle Jurassic, Keuper, and Muschelkalk to the Middle Bunter at depths greater than 4100 m below mean sea level with suitable temperatures greater than 150 ∘C. Seismic data reveal the presence of faults, which may act as a conduit for thermal waters in the northern part of Minden. Our study also provides a basis for further geothermal exploration and exploitation south of Minden, where an operating geothermal system has already been established in the city of Osnabrück and further north, where the potential reservoirs are located at greater depths as shown by hydrocarbon exploration data. First estimations of the geothermal power output for two selected reservoir horizons yield up to 11.3 and 14.3 MW (10 % probability to yield these or higher values), respectively. We conclude that the subsurface of the inverted part of the Lower Saxony Basin principally fulfills the requirements (formation temperatures) for deep geothermal production not only for residential and commercial use but also for industrial processes. However, future detailed reservoir analyses and thermo-hydraulic investigations on a regional scale require additional exploration work like newly acquired seismic surveys and deep exploration wells.

Assessment of hydrocarbon generation potential and thermal maturity of the deep offshore Lamu Basin, Kenya

In this study, the secondary well data for Cretaceous to Miocene cutting samples in four deep offshore exploration wells, i.e., Pomboo-1 in the north, Kubwa-1 in the central, Simba-1 and Kiboko-1 in the south of the deep offshore Lamu Basin were assessed for identifying source rock presence and examining thermal maturity of the source rocks. The 2D basin modelling was used to analyse the bulk gas transformation in the basin. Total organic carbon (TOC) content values for the wells range from 0.09 wt % to 2.23 wt % with an average of 0.78 wt %. The average organic richness is higher in the Upper Cretaceous (0.83 wt %) than in the Palaeogene (0.65 wt %), Lower Cretaceous (0.28 wt %) and Upper Jurassic (0.30 wt %). The S1 averages for the Upper Cretaceous are 3.76 mg HC/g rock in Pomboo-1 and 0.31mg HC/g rock in Kubwa-1. The S2 averages for the Upper Cretaceous are 5.00 mg HC/g rock in Pomboo-1 and 0.72 mg HC/g rock in Kubwa-1. Hydrogen index (HI) values vary between 4 and 512 mg HC/g TOC with an average of 157.09 mg HC/g TOC. Organic matters were identified as mixed types of II-III (oil and gas prone) and III-IV (gas prone) kerogen in the potential source rocks. The HI and S2 yield values are exceptionally high for the observed TOC values in Pomboo-1. The vitrinite reflectance and Tmax values of deep offshore Lamu Basin are in the ranges of 0.38%–0.72% and 360–441 °C, respectively. It suggests the existence of both immature and mature source rocks. Vitrinite reflectance maturity favours near coastal region in the Upper Cretaceous. These results explain why Pomboo-1, Kubwa-1, Simba-1 and Kiboko-1 wells were dry. The temperatures are still cool for hydrocarbon generation in deep offshore. The critical risk for deep offshore Lamu Basin is charge, primarily source presence, and a lack of definitive evidence of a deep-water marine source rock being present. The four wells penetrate good quality reservoir and seal rocks, but source rock presence and maturity remain the critical play risk in the deep offshore Lamu Basin.

Application of geomechanics in the construction of horizontal wells at the fields of Embamunaigas JSC

Horizontal drilling is currently being actively developed in the near and far abroad to increase oil production, and Embamunaigas JSC is a prime example of this type of drilling in Kazakhstan. At the same time, horizontal drilling is a fairly complex and costly process, just like the construction of deep exploration wells, which requires a comprehensive approach to planning and execution of work.
 Geomechanical modelling plays a crucial role in selecting process parameters for drilling, determining optimum well design and other characteristics required to ensure wellbore integrity and overall well construction success.
 The mechanical properties model takes into account rock strength characteristics, horizontal stress directions of the geological environment and many other aspects that help make drilling safer, reduce the risk of complications and maintain borehole integrity.
 This study describes the process of creating geomechanical models for the construction of complex horizontal wells in the fields of Embamunaigas JSC based on the geomechanical core studies carried out at the S. Nurzhanov field and an analysis of the hydraulic fracturing database for the fields of Embamunaigas JSC. As a result, a safe drilling mud density range (safe drilling window) was determined and recommendations were given for the optimisation of drilling parameters and well design.

The density of sedimentary complexes of the Carpathian-Pannonian region (generalization)

An extensive analysis of the available information on the density of themain tectonic elements of the Ukrainian Carpathians is given in connection with the need for further construction of a three-dimensional gravity model. The density was studied both from cores of reference, exploration, crelius and deep exploration wells, and from samples taken from numerous outcrops. In the Ukrainian Carpathians, there is a change in the density of rocks depending on the age, lithological composition and depth of occurrence. Local metamorphism plays a significant role in the increase in density. It is shown that in the Bilche-Volitsky Nappe of the Precarpathian Trough, a discontinuous change in the density of clays with increasing depth is more often observed, which is caused not by a static load, but by the geological conditions of the formation of the region: by tectonic processes and a change in sedimentation and denudation processes, which cause residual compaction. According to the analysis of available data, the density of molasse and flysch strata within the Borislav-Pokutsky and Sambir Nappes at depths of 1000 m and more practically does not change, and an increase in the density of Pokuttya rocks is associated with a decrease in the porosity of rocks by 2—5 % and is due to the degree of their metamorphism. Analysis of a large amount of data showed a very complex nature of the density distribution in the Folded Carpathians and its dependence, mainly, on porosity. For different stratigraphic subdivisions of the Skiba Nappe, there is a general tendency to an increase in density with depth (in most cases, unevenly), which is most clearly manifested in the Stryi series of deposits.In the Transcarpathian Trough, the change in density with depth depends on the ratio of clay, tuffogenic and sandy material in the rock. Sedimentary and igneous rocks in the upper part of the section of the Vygurlat-Gutinskaya volcanic ridge are not differentiated in density, which can be explained by the high densities of sedimentary rocks, on the one hand, and a decrease in the density of igneous rocks due to their decompaction, on the other. In the stratigraphic complexes of the Solotvino and Mukachevo Depressions, the density varies over the area. For the first time, based on generalized data on the density of rocks of different age groups of the sedimentary complex for the folded region of the Ukrainian Carpathians, a diagram of the distribution of the average density for each structural-facial zone has been drawn up. An increase in density from north-east to south-west is shown. It is concluded that the density of the Precarpathian and TranscarpathianTroughsis much lower than the density of the rocks of the Folded Carpathians.

Prospect evaluation based on integrated petroleum system analysis: Block E case study, south-eastern edge of Precaspian Basin (Kazakhstan)

Generative potential and thermal maturity for Upper Palaeozoic source rocks from the south-eastern edge of Precaspian Basin were determined using Rock–Eval. A high hydrocarbon source rock generative potential and high degree of thermal maturity for the Lower Permian, Mid-Carboniferous strata have been revealed based on 39 rock samples. TOC values of 0.4–5.5% have been obtained for mature source rocks. Integrated geochemical analysis determined from Rock–Eval studies combined with 1D basin modelling was utilized in order to reconstruct thermal evolution for the Upper Palaeozoic source rocks. Calibrated 1D models for three wells had been constructed to understand petroleum system. For two deep exploration wells (Nur-1 and Tassym SE-1), which penetrated pre-salt strata at the depths of 5.7 and 7 km, respectively, the impact of salt diapirism on timing of maturation was modelled. Type II kerogen was used, which is based on previous palaeogeographic studies. The stratigraphic framework and major stages of geodynamic evolution were analysed. Salt-related structural traps in post-salt strata have been described based on 3D seismic data, and additional intra-salt sediment packages have been delineated. Discovered producing oil fields in the Upper Triassic and Jurassic–Cretaceous stratigraphic sections are mainly confined to the four-way dip structural closures above the steep flanks of salt structures. Based on burial and thermal modelling, the maturation and generation behaviour of kerogen Type II below salt-related minibasins and close to thick salt diapirs were inferred. For Lower Permian SR with type II kerogen, the generation peak (maturity over 50%) occurs in Middle to Late Jurassic. For predominantly carbonate and terrigenous-carbonate Mid-Carboniferous marine SR, generation peak occurs earlier below salt withdrawal minibasins. Implications for deeper hydrocarbon prospectivity were made for the study area, and methodology for evaluating hydrocarbon potential adopting 1D basin modelling technique and geochemical data is presented.

The Research of Oil Washing Method for Oil-Based Mud Cuttings Samples from Deep Water Oil and Gas Exploration Wells

The Research of Oil Washing Method for Oil-Based Mud Cuttings Samples from Deep Water Oil and Gas Exploration Wells

Petrophysical Features of The Rocks of The Pliocene Deposits of The Oil and Gas Bearing Region of The Nizhnekurinskaya Depression

In the article was showed complexes results of petro physical testing sample of rocks from taken digging prospecting-development wells from areas of the Lower Kura Trouth which are widen productive unit sediments. Defined the collectors characteristics of rocks. Shows the results of generalization, the analysis and the interpretation of collectors researches more than a thousand samples of sedimentary and magmatic rocks from taken deep exploration wells in the Lower Kura Trouth under high atmospheric pressures and temperatures. For restoration the physical properties as a result of elastic deformations have been investigated the lithological difference of rock samples from the area of Lower Kura Trouth. Researches have shown that the physical properties of single-nominal and single-old rocks are changed and have different values in the result of geological-physical processes.

Eocene Sediments in the South China Sea, precursor deposits of the Oligocene expansion?

The stratigraphic record of Eocene in the Malaysian waters of the South China Sea is scarce; the few deep petroleum exploration wells and outcrops are located on the fringes of the SCS. Yet, despite the paucity of data we observe a variety of sediments that cover the range from fluviatile to (at least) neritic marine deposits. Whilst fluvial deposits dominate the Western Rim (Penyu, Malay basins), the Southern Rim (Sarawak) is characterized by deposits of a narrow and rapidly deepening shelf, with fluviatile, shallow marine clastics and carbonates passing seawards to outer shelf and neritic deposits. The proven record of the Eocene to-date is located in relatively small and deep sub-basins. Possibly, the Eocene underlies additional areas of the SCS, but there is to-date no sufficient well data to offer further confirmation. The presence of Eocene strata on the margins of Sundaland is associated with an early phase of extensional and/or transpressional tectonism, probably acting as precursor movements related to the onset of rifting of the crust underlying the SCS.

The Sedimentary Record of Paleogene Sequences in Sarawak, Malaysia

In this paper, we compare the oldest Tertiary sedimentary sequences in the south ern margin of the South China Sea based on outcrop and well data along the Sarawak margin, northern Borneo. Paleogene rocks in Sarawak are present in three tectono stratigraphic zones and represent three depositional settings. Outcrops and deep exploration wells in the Miri Zone indicate shelfal clastics, carbonates, and clay dominated neritic sediments. In the Sibu Zone (Rajang Fold Thrust Belt), Late Cretaceous to Late Eocene deep marine clastic sediments indicate a shallowing upward of the depositional basin, which was later buried to great depths (?) and metamorphosed. In the Kuching Zone, the Kayan and Plat eau sandstones represent a fluvial dominated non marine depositional setting. There are two major unconformities within the Paleogene of Sarawak: the Rajang Unconformity, dated as approximatively 37 Ma, and the younger near Top Eocene (a.k.a. Base Oligocen e) unconformity of 33.7 Ma. The likely presence of Eocene strata in the margins of Sundaland is associated with an early phase of regional extensional tectonism, which was also observed in the Penyu and Malay basins, offshore Peninsular Malaysia, and is probably related to the onset of rifting of the South China Sea continental crust.

A Reference Thermal-Hydrologic-Mechanical Native State Model of the Utah FORGE Enhanced Geothermal Site

The Frontier Observatory for Research in Geothermal Energy (FORGE) site is a multi-year initiative funded by the U.S. Department of Energy for enhanced geothermal system research and development. The site is located on the margin of the Great Basin near the town of Milford, Utah. Work has so far resulted in the compilation of a large amount of subsurface data which have been used to improve the geologic understanding of the site. Based on the compiled data, a three-dimensional geologic model describing the structure, composition, permeability, and temperature at the Utah FORGE site was developed. A deep exploratory well (Well 58-32) and numerous tests conducted therein provide information on reservoir rock type, temperature, stress, permeability, etc. Modeling and simulation will play a critical role at the site and need to be considered as a general scientific discovery tool to elucidate the behavior of enhanced geothermal systems and as a deterministic (or stochastic) tool to plan and predict specific activities. This paper will present the development of a reference native state model and the calibration of the model to the reservoir pressure, temperature, and stress measured in Well 58-32.