Favorable Source Rocks Research Articles

Substantial gas enrichment in shales influenced by volcanism during the Ordovician–Silurian transition

The substantial gas enrichment in shales of the Ordovician–Silurian transition was associated with the development of the most favorable source rock. While organic matter enrichment has been linked to intensive volcanism, it remains a challenge to precisely evaluate the impact of the volcanism on substantial gas enrichment containing the largest gas storage capacity. This study focused on consecutive borehole shale samples from the Wufeng–Longmaxi formations during the Ordovician–Silurian transition in southern China. We conducted a comprehensive analysis, integrating the major geological volcanism with high-resolution analysis, including QEMSCAN, argon-ion SEM, thin-section examination, XRD mineralogy, TOC, Hg concentration, petrophysical properties and nanopore structure analysis (low-pressure CO2/N2 gas adsorption, porosity and permeability). The results link the significant shale gas enrichment in Wufeng–Longmaxi formations to intensive volcanism across the Ordovician–Silurian transition. We identified the most favorable shale intervals in the lower Longmaxi Formation, aligning with the peak period of volcanism. This period showed synchronous spikes in Hg, Hg/TOC, and TOC contents. Shale deposited during this favorable paleoenvironment exhibited the highest values of TOC, porosity, permeability, specific surface area, pore volume, maximum gas adsorption capacity, leading to the largest amount of gas content and substantial gas enrichment. Our work, therefore, provides new insights into identifying the most favorable shale gas resources. This knowledge assists in accurate predictions of the stratigraphic ‘sweet spot’ intervals for large shale gas storage capacity, providing crucial information for engineering explorations and developments in shale formations.

Organic geochemical and petrological investigations of the upper miocene bongaya formation in the pitas, onshore sabah basin, and its relevance for hydrocarbon potential

The Upper Miocene Bongaya Formation coal, carbonaceous shale, and shale sediments were collected to investigate their origin, types, and maturity. The main objectives of this study were to verify and update previous claim of possible hydrocarbon showings and to gain new insights about the petroleum potential using different geochemical analysis approach. The primary methodology used in this study is the pyrolysis technique and coupled with petrographic analysis. The bulk geochemistry results revealed that the Bongaya sediments serve as favorable source rock, with the total organic carbon (TOC) content ranging from 0.90 to 63.10 wt% by weight, indicating fair to excellent organic richness. The coal samples exhibited the highest TOC values, followed by carbonaceous shale samples, while shale and coal laminated with sandstone samples displayed fair TOC amounts. Most of the Bongaya sediments analyzed in this study exhibited hydrogen index (HI) values of less than 200 mg HC/g TOC, indicating Type III organic matter, which signifies a significant influence of terrestrial organic matter. However, three coals displayed comparatively higher pyrolysis HI values, corroborated by Pyrolysis gas-chromatography (Py-GC) results and maceral types, indicating a mixture of Type II/III kerogen. This suggests that the Bongaya Formation sediment has the potential to generate gas with minor oil. Maceral analysis also revealed that most of the coal samples contained a high content of resinite maceral, which explains the waxy composition of the oil. The organic matter in the analyzed Bongaya sediments was found to be immature for petroleum generation, as evidenced by low huminite reflectance data (lower than 0.50% VR) and Tmax values between 372 and 432 °C. Consequently, the kerogen in the studied onshore Bongaya sediments has yet to enter the hydrocarbon cracking (catagenesis) phase before expelling petroleum. Therefore, it is essential to consider the offshore equivalent Bongaya sediments, which may be laterally extended offshore and buried at deeper depths to attain optimal maturity for hydrocarbon generation.

The role of protolith composition in the formation of tin-enriched granitic melts: A modeling study using the example of the southwest China tin province

Important features of Sn mineralization are the heterogeneous geographic distribution and frequent regional separation from W mineralization in spite some similarities of Sn and W behavior during magmatic processes. Major Sn and W mineralization is often spatially associated with peraluminous granites, which are derived from partial melting of metasediments. Several concepts have been suggested to explain those features, such as a weathering-related Sn-enriched source, Sn redistribution between melts and restite during protolith melting, and extensive fractional crystallization. We demonstrate the importance of protolith composition for the formation of Sn (and W) granites by using a comprehensive bulk-rock composition dataset from Precambrian metasediments of the South China Sn-W province and employing a thermodynamic modeling approach. We used four compositional proxies for phase equilibria calculations, which are the metasediments of the Mengdong, Sibao, Pingbian, and Shuangqiaoshan Groups. It is well documented that those Precambrian metasediments are important protoliths of Sn granites in South China. We present quantitative evaluation of the control of protolith composition in the generation of Sn-enriched granitic melts using South China as example, but our conclusions may also be applicable to worldwide Sn–enriched granites. Our results indicate that the protolith major-element geochemistry controls the anatectic reactions and melt productivity at specific melting conditions, and consequently the partitioning behavior of Sn. Further, pre-enrichment of Sn is crucial to the fertility of granitic melt and may be a prerequisite, particularly for the formation of giant Sn deposits. We propose that the heterogeneous distribution of favorable source rocks is one of the important factors that control the spatial distribution of major Sn (and W) districts in South China and other regions worldwide.

Shale oil potential and mobility in low- to medium-maturity lacustrine shales: A case study of the Yanchang Formation shale in southeast Ordos Basin, China

Oil mobility is essential for the evaluation of shale oil resources, yet there has been limited research conducted on the oil mobility of low- to medium-maturity lacustrine shale. This study integrates multiple methodologies such as organic geochemistry, mineralogy, oil-kerogen adsorption-swelling experiments, and in-situ conversion process (ICP) models to evaluate the mobility and potential for shale oil in the lacustrine shale of the Yanchang Formation in the Yaoqu 1 (YQ1) well situated in the southeastern region of the Ordos Basin. The Chang 7 shales are categorized as highly favorable source rocks, nonetheless, the oil contained within these layers predominantly exists in an adsorbed-swelling state, resulting in limited mobility as indicated by the oil saturation index, a modified oversaturation index, and production index. Therefore, the utilization of existing conventional techniques for shale oil exploitation is not viable for the Chang 7 shale characterized by low to medium maturity in the study area. Nevertheless, during the ICP, the quantity and mobility of oil within the Chang 7 shales exhibit a substantial increase as temperature rises. Moreover, once the Chang 7 type II shales reach a maturity level of around 0.91%Ro, they demonstrate noteworthy prospects for shale oil production. The findings of this study serve as a valuable reference for guiding the advancement of in-situ conversion process technology in the study area, while also offering substantial evidence for addressing the intricate challenge of crude oil mobility in low- to medium-maturity lacustrine shale reservoirs.

The Facies Analysis, Evolution, and Coal-Bearing Source Rock Features of the Middle–Late Triassic Shallow-Water Delta in the North Carnarvon Basin, Northwest Shelf of Australia

The sedimentary facies, architecture, and depositional mechanism of deltaic systems have been one of the global research hotspots in recent decades; however, the detailed distribution, sedimentary evolution, source rock potential, and major control factors of the coal-bearing shallow-water delta are still unclear. A typical shallow-water braided delta with coal-bearing source rocks developed in the Middle–Late Triassic Mungaroo Formation of the North Carnarvon Basin, which can be a good study area for an analysis of coal-bearing source rocks. In this study, the sedimentary facies, distribution and evolution, and coal-bearing source rock features of the Triassic strata were analyzed based on the integrated study of wireline logs, drilled cores, thin sections, seismic facies and attributes, and geochemical data. A range of shallow-water delta sedimentary facies was identified, including the proximal delta plain channel/interdistributary bay, distal delta plain channel/interdistributary bay, and the delta front. The coal-bearing shallow-water delta system of the Middle–Late Triassic Mungaroo Formation was characterized by the largest scale delta system with relatively broad proximal and distal delta plains and relatively narrow delta front subfacies. The scale of the delta system showed a trend of increasing from the Early Triassic Locker Shale to the Middle–Late Triassic Mungaroo Formation and then decreasing to the Late Triassic Brigadier Formation. The distal delta plain subfacies of the Mungaroo Formation should have the highest potential coal-bearing source rock, and the proximal delta plain also can be a favorable target for source rock evaluation. The major control factors of the coal-bearing source rocks of the Mungaroo shallow-water delta mainly included the Triassic megamonsoon climate, the topographic features, eustatic changes, and provenance supply. The proximal and distal delta plains of the shallow-water delta system with thin coal seams, carbonaceous mudstone, and dark mudstone lithologies’ association could be a favorable source rock exploration facies for the next stage of natural gas field exploration.

Geochemical characteristics and enrichment regularity of bedrock reservoir in the central paleo-uplift, north songliao basin

The Central Paleo-Uplift is a key target for exploration in the deep layers of the Songliao Basin. Our study focused on the systematic analysis of the forming conditions and accumulation patterns of bedrock reservoirs. We conducted this analysis using data such as gas composition, isotopes, slices, and CT scans, while also considering factors such as source rock, hydrocarbon supply window, and transport channels. By analyzing these factors, we were able to gain insights into the geological processes that led to the formation of these reservoirs. Our findings reveal that the gas in the Central Paleo-Uplift is primarily coal-formed and highly mature. These gases originate from two main sources - the Xujiaweizi Fault Depression as the primary source, and the Gulong Fault Depression as the secondary source. We identified two types of gas reservoirs in the area, namely weathering reservoirs and inside bedrock reservoirs. The weathering reservoirs primarily contain gas trapped in erosion pores and fractures, while the inside bedrock reservoirs mainly contain gas in fractures. The Central Paleo-Uplift area is surrounded by favorable source rocks, with greater hydrocarbon supply windows on the east side compared to the west. The efficient transport channels have facilitated the accumulation of gas, while the presence of a steady mudstone cap has been advantageous for the preservation of gas reservoirs. The region contains various traps that are favorable for gas accumulation, with higher concentrations found at elevated positions. Our study identified three distinct accumulation patterns in the north, middle, and south regions of the Central Paleo-Uplift. The Wangjiatun Bulge, Changde Bulge, and Zhaozhou Bulge are particularly promising areas for exploration in this region.

Seismic interpretation and geological evaluation of hydrocarbon source rocks in volcanic-rich continental lacustrine rift basins: A case study of the Lower Cretaceous Yingcheng Formation from the Changling Fault Depression in the Songliao Basin, NE China

The Lower Cretaceous Yingcheng Formation in the Changling Fault Depression in the Songliao Basin is composed of volcanic-rich continental lacustrine rift basin sediments. Its complex stratigraphic structure and the difficulty in predicting the hydrocarbon source rock distribution restrict the exploration and evaluation of deep hydrocarbons in this region. This paper uses seismic stratigraphy to divide the strata and interpret dark mudstone layers based on logging and seismic. These data are combined with geochemical test data from hydrocarbon source rocks to assess its quality and predict its distribution. This study indicates that the three types of unconformities identified divide the Yingcheng Formation into four sedimentary sequences. In the Yingcheng Formation depositional period, the number of grabens or half-grabens associated with the Changling Fault Depression decreased, the size of the rift basins increased, and the depositional center migrated to the north and west. During the depositional period of the First and Second Members, volcanic rocks were widely developed, and mud sediments were deposited between several small grabens or half-grabens. During the depositional period of the Third and fourth Members, the study area became a unified lacustrine rift basin with clearly defined geological signatures developed in each sedimentary sequence, which can be divided into three systems tracts. Mudstones in the Lake Transgressive Systems Tract are laterally continuous and widely distributed. The organic matter in these mudstones, with fair to good abundance levels, is predominantly type II2 and type III kerogen and all have reached mature to highly mature stage of thermal evolution, which are favorable hydrocarbon source rock layers. In plan view, the favorable hydrocarbon source rock zones are mostly formed in the Changling Sag, Dongling Structural Zone and Longfengshan Sag. This study offers guidance and direction for deep hydrocarbon exploration in the Changling Fault Depression, and also provides a reference for methods and ideas to predict hydrocarbon source rock distribution in other lacustrine rift basins.

Shale Lithofacies and Sedimentary Environment of the Third Member, Shahejie Formation, Zhanhua Sag, Eastern China

AbstractResearches into shale lithofacies, their sedimentary environments and relationship benefit understanding both of sedimentary cycle division and unconventional hydrocarbon exploration in lacustrine basins. Based on a 100∼300‐m‐thick dark shale, mudstone and limestone encountered in the lower third member of the Eocene Shahejie Formation (Es3l member) in Zhanhua Sag, Bohai Bay Basin, eastern China, routine core analysis, thin sectioning, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), mineralogical and geochemical measurements were used to understand detailed facies characterization and paleoclimate in the member. This Es3l shale sediment includes three sedimentary cycles (C3, C2 and C1), from bottom to top, with complex sedimentary characters and spatial distribution. In terms of the composition, texture, bedding and thickness, six lithofacies are recognized in this succession. Some geochemical parameters, such as trace elements (Sr/Ba, Na/Al, V/Ni, V/(V + Ni), U/Th), carbon and oxygen isotopes (δ18O, δ13C), and total organic carbon content (TOC) indicate that the shales were deposited in a deep to semi‐deep lake, with the water column being salty, stratified, enclosed and reductive. During cycles C3 and C2 of the middle‐lower sections, the climate was arid, and the water was salty and stratified. Laminated and laminar mudstone–limestone was deposited with moderate organic matter (average TOC 1.8%) and good reservoir quality (average porosity 6.5%), which can be regarded as favorable reservoir. During the C1 cycle, a large amount of organic matter was input from outside the basin and this led to high productivity with a more humid climate. Massive calcareous mudstone was deposited, and this is characterized by high TOC (average 3.6%) and moderate porosity (average 4%), and provides favorable source rocks.

Exploration field analysis and zone optimization of sinian, Tarim Basin, China

Carbonate rock from the Late Proterozoic to the Early Paleozoic is an important field of oil and gas exploration. The Sinian carbonate rock series in Tarim Basin are old, deep buried, with few drilling wells and various geological problems are unclear that restrict the exploration of deep carbonate rock. Based on the analysis of Sinian geological structure, by means of stratigraphic correlation and seismic prediction, the distribution of Sinian favorable source rocks, deep reservoir facies belts, and reservoir forming assemblages are studied to comb the exploration fields and favorable zones of Sinian in Tarim Basin. The findings reveal that slope-basin facies source rocks developed in Sinian. In the upper part of the Qigebulake Formation, high-quality dolomite reservoirs evolved, and mudstone from the Yuertus Formation at the foot of Cambrian can form favorable reservoir cap assemblage. The south slope of Tabei Uplift and the north slope of Tazhong Uplift are the most favorable exploration zones for Sinian dolomite, favorable exploration area of approximately 31,000 km2. The findings can provide a certain reference for the Sinian carbonate oil and gas exploration in the Tarim Basin.

Organic matter accumulation mechanism and characteristics in marine-continental transitional shale: A case study of the upper Permian Longtan Formation from the Well F5 in Sichuan Basin, China

The upper Permian Longtan Formation (LTF) shale is a new shale gas exploration and development focus in China, which was formed in a transitional depositional environment. Because of the difference in the sedimentary environment between marine-continental transitional shale and marine shale, the enrichment characteristics and mechanism of organic matter (OM) are very different. Because of a weak research foundation, the enrichment mechanism of OM in the LTF shale in the Sichuan Basin is still unclear. In this paper, shale samples of the upper Permian LTF from the Well F5 were collected, and the abundance, source and sedimentary environment of organic matter were studied by using paleoclimate, detrital input, redox, paleoproductivity and sedimentation rate parameters. The results show that the TOC content of the LTF shale is high (average = 3.04%) and reaches the high to overmature stage (average = 2.46%), indicating a favorable source rock. The LTF shale was deposited in a humid and hot climate, which was conducive to the growth and prosperity of a large number of plants. The source of organic matter was mainly terrestrial plant fragments. The sedimentary environment of the LTF shale was oxic, it had a high sedimentation rate, which reduced the oxidation rate of OM, promoted the rapid deposition of OM, and ensured the preservation of organic matter. In summary, the enrichment of OM of LTF shale in the Sichuan Basin was affected by the sedimentary environment, which was complicated. The main controlling factors were detrital input, redox conditions and sedimentation rate.

Bulk pyrolysis and biomarker fingerprints of Late Cretaceous Galhak Shale Formation in the northern Melut Basin, Sudan: implications on lacustrine oil-source rock

Organic-rich shale samples from the Late Cretaceous Galhak Formation were collected from one well location in the northern Melut Basin, Sudan, and analyzed by integrated organic geochemical and microscopic techniques. The study investigates the nature and preservation conditions of the organic facies and their relevance to petroleum resource potential. Judging from the high total organic contents (total organic carbon (TOC) > 2%), the analyzed Galhak shales are organically rich and include favorable source rocks. The organic richness in these shale sediments may be attributed to enhance the preservation of organic matter under suboxic conditions as implied from the n-alkanes and isoprenoid biomarkers. Biological markers, including of n-alkanes, isoprenoids, terpanes, and steranes, further suggest that the Galhak shale sediments were deposited in a relatively fresh lacustrine environment and received largely aquatic organic matter of plankton and bacteria with little terrestrial plant input. An abundance of aquatic-derived organic matter is consistent with types I and II kerogen as indicated by high Rock-Eval HI values of more than 400 mg HC/g TOC. The hydrogen-rich kerogen types I and II in the analyzed samples suggests an oil-prone source. According to the optical and geochemical maturity indicators, the organic matter in the Galhak oil shale is thermally immature; thus, they have not reached sufficient oil-window maturity for commercial oil generation. Therefore, the deeper parts of the Melut Basin, where the Galhak Formation reached high mature of peak-oil generation window, are recommended for further petroleum exploration and production.

Organic geochemical characteristics of Zeit source rock from Red Sea Basin and their contribution to organic matter enrichment and hydrocarbon generation potential

Organic-rich shale intervals in the Miocene Zeit Formation were collected from seven wells in the Red Sea basin for compilation of organic geochemical and petrological methods. The current study evaluated the paleo-oxygenation conditions regarding the preservation and the organic-rich sedimentation. The type of organic facies and their relation to hydrocarbon generation potential were also studied. Most of the Zeit shale samples are organically rich and include favorable source rocks, as indicated by the high TOC content of up to 1 wt%. The shale samples also have hydrogen index (HI) values between 58 and 595 mg HC/g TOC, resulting in two dominant organic facies of Types II-III, and III kerogen, with little Type II, and thereby contributing to generate both oil and gas. Biomarker fingerprints, including of n-alkanes, isoprenoids, terpanes, and steranes reveal that the Zeit shales contain mixed organic matter, with a high contribution of marine plankton/algal and microorganisms. The presence of the phytoplankton algae i.e. Chlorococcales and Tasmanites in the Zeit shales further suggests reducing conditions during deposition, thus, enhanced growth of algae and marine microorganisms owing to the presence of nutrients and contribute to good preservation of organic matter. According to maturity indicators of geochemical Tmax (≥430 °C) and vitrinite reflectance (VRo) values (0.52–0.98%), the analyzed Zeit shales are in a mature stage of oil window equivalent to early-mature and peak-mature. This implies that the Zeit shales were reached a sufficient maturity level for commercial oil generation.

Multiple thrust detachments and their implications for hydrocarbon accumulation in the northeastern Sichuan Basin, southwestern China

The northeastern Sichuan Basin thrust belt located in southwestern China, is a large-scale intracontinental thrust system with multiple detachments represented by a series of subparallel chevron anticlines. We conduct a comprehensive study of the geometry and kinematics of the thrust belt and its implications for the petroleum system based on seismic-reflection profile interpretation, field investigation, analysis of wells, and geochronology. Two major detachments occur within the allochthonous succession: the (1) gypsum-bearing lower to middle Cambrian Longwangmiao and Gaotai Formations and (2) Lower Triassic Jialingjiang Formation. The dark gray shales in the lower Silurian Longmaxi Formation are a favorable source rock that may also act as a third detachment in this study area. The stratigraphic succession is divided by three detachments into three structural intervals: (1) lower Cambrian–Silurian structural interval, (2) middle Silurian–Triassic structural interval, and (3) upper Triassic–Jurassic structural interval. The lower structural interval may be a good candidate for hydrocarbon exploration because of the occurrence of high-quality source rock and its reservoir-trapping evolutionary history.

Elemental Geochemical Characterization of Sedimentary Conditions and Organic Matter Enrichment for Lower Cambrian Shale Formations in Northern Guizhou, South China

The black shale deposited in the Niutitang Formation and its adjacent strata is considered to be a favorable source rock in northern Guizhou of south China and has become a target horizon for shale gas exploration in recent years. Based on SQ-1 and CY-1 core samples, the organic matter properties and geochemical elements were obtained through experimental analysis. Provenance, paleoredox, paleoclimate, paleoproductivity and deposition conditions were analyzed, and the sedimentary effects on organic matter enrichment were discussed. The results show that total organic carbon (TOC) is between 0.22–10.10 wt.% in SQ-1, with an average of 2.60 wt.%, and TOC is between 0.23–7.7 wt.% in CY-1, with an average of 1.45 wt.%. The geochemical data of the samples indicate that the black shale of the Niutitang Formation and adjacent strata are deposited in the tectonic background of the passive continental margin. The provenance shows moderate weathering, with hot and humid paleoenvironmental characteristics and fast deposition rate. Using multiple ancient redox indicators, it is concluded that the formation has undergone changes in the oxidizing environment and anaerobic environment during deposition. According to the (La/Yb)N value (the average value of SQ-1 is 1.23 and the average value of CY-1 is 1.26), it shows a faster deposition rate of the two wells and shortens the residence time of organic matter in the microbial degradation zone. The Babio indicates that the bottom has a high paleoproductivity when deposited. Considering the influencing factors, the paleoproductivity mainly controls the organic matter enrichment, followed by ancient redox conditions and the deposition rate. The research results provide a reference for deepening sedimentary understanding and shale gas exploration in the study area.

Organic geochemistry and basin modeling of Late Cretaceous Harshiyat Formation in the onshore and offshore basins in Yemen: Implications for effective source rock potential and hydrocarbon generation

The purpose of this study is to present the source rock characteristics of Late Cretaceous Harshiyat Formation source rock in the onshore and offshore basins of Yemen (i.e. Mukalla-Sayhut, Sayun–Masilah , and Jiza-Qamar). Source rock geochemical characterizations were completed and integrated to perform 1-D basin modeling to back-predict source rock thermal maturation, oil generation and expulsion.The geochemical findings revealed that mudstone intervals within the Harshiyat Formation comprised favorable source rocks, with total organic carbon (TOC) content between 0.50 and 35.10 wt %. The organic matter intervals in the Harshiyat mudstones are mainly Types II/III and III kerogens, with certain amount of Type II and I kerogens based on Rock-Eval HI values, ranging from 40 to 923 mg HC/g TOC. Mixed kerogen types were consistent with vitrinite and sapropelic organic matters, as observed by visual kerogen examination and the distribution of biomarker fingerprints. The existence of mixed types I, II, and III organic matter suggests that the Harshiyat mudstones could contribute to oil and gas at sufficient thermal maturity levels. The biomarker data of the organic matter in the Harshiyat mudstones show that the source rock contains a mix marine phytoplanktonic-bacteria/terrestrial land plant enthronement and were deposited in suboxic-anoxic conditions.Results of chemical and optical maturity indicators led to the conclusion of varying maturity stages from immature to late oil window levels for the mudstones of the Harshiyat Formation. Thermal maturation distributions inferred from the analyzed samples indicate that mudstone intervals in the offshore Mukalla-Sayhut Basin are extremely mature, compatible with the late-mature oil window and may have generated significant amounts of oil. This interpretation was supported by strong geochemical similarity between the organic matter in the mudstones and those of the oils found in the offshore Mukalla-Sayhut Basin and demonstrated by the concentrations of n-alkanes and isoprenoids as well as carbon isotopes.In the offshore Ras-Ghashwah-1X well, burial and thermal models were constructed and used to address the effect of tectonic events in triggering oil generation and expulsion from mature Harshiyat source rock in the offshore area. Kinetic database models for Type II and III kerogen mixtures indicate that the initial conversion of kerogen to oil occurred since the Late Oligocene with transformation ratios (TR) that span between 10% and 50%. Furthermore, the oil was expelled from organic matter intervals in the Harshiyat source rock starting from Late Oligocene and continuing until Late Miocene, with TRs of 50%–72%. From that period up to the present, the retained oil was cracked into wet gas in the gas window with an Easy %Ro greater than 1.30, and with peak TR ratios greater than 72%.

Effective hydrocarbon-bearing geological conditions of the Permian strata in the South Yellow Sea Basin, China: Evidence from borehole CSDP-2

For nearly 60 years, petroleum geologists have been puzzled by oil and gas exploration in the South Yellow Sea basin, which is considered to have broad oil and gas prospects, but no commercial hydrocarbon reservoirs have been obtained. The hydrocarbon-bearing geological conditions of the Permian strata with good exploration prospects also have never been systematically investigated. To solve the problem, a series of experiments was conducted on core samples obtained from borehole CSDP-2, the first exploration well with continuous coring in the South Yellow Sea Basin, including petrology analysis, geochemical testing, pore-throat testing, hydrocarbon-charging analysis, and sealing-ability evaluation. Vitrinite reflectance (Ro), total organic carbon (TOC), pyrolysis, extractable organic matter (EOM) and kerogen microscopic examination were carried out to evaluate the quality of the Permian source rocks. Porosity, permeability, thin section, scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) and rate-controlled mercury injection (RCMI) analyses were combined to verify the effectiveness of sandstone reservoirs. The sealing capacity of caprock was mainly evaluated by the displacement pressure. And according to the fluid-inclusion analysis and oil-source correlation, the hydrocarbon accumulation events were determined. After comprehensive analysis, we clarified the effective hydrocarbon-bearing geological conditions and favorable prospects in the Permian of the South Yellow Sea Basin. Furthermore, the main controlling factors pertaining to favorable source rocks and tight sandstone reservoirs were ascertained in this paper.The results show that two sets of the Lower Permian Qixia and Gufeng Formation (P1q-g) and the Upper Permian Longtan and Dalong Formation (P2l-d) source rocks, along with the P2l-d tight sandstone reservoirs, compose two types of hydrocarbon accumulation assemblages, which are effectively sealed by the Lower Triassic Qinglong Formation (T1q) roof caprock. One type represents the ‘lower-generation and upper-accumulation’ between the P1q-g source rocks and the P2l-d sandstones, and the other type represents the ‘self-generation and self-accumulation’ in the Upper Permian strata. Vertical stacking between the Permian source rocks and sandstone reservoirs ensures the near-source hydrocarbon accumulation, and faults and microcracks can be regarded as beneficial channels for hydrocarbon migration. In addition, we find that the quality of source rocks is improved by large-scale marine transgression, high bio-productivity, and tectonic–thermal events. The quality of tight sandstone reservoirs is more dependent on throats with relatively larger radius than pores. This study provides important enlightenment for exploring marine hydrocarbons in the South Yellow Sea Basin, and can be useful in understanding the dominant geological factors affecting favorable source rocks and sandstone reservoirs.

Modeling hydrocarbon accumulation based on gas origin and source rock distribution in Paleozoic strata of the Ordos Basin, China

Paleozoic gases in the Ordos Basin, China, are produced from upper Paleozoic tight sandstones, Ordovician weathered-crust, and ‘pre-salt’ (beneath gypsum deposits) dolomite reservoirs. Their origins have been debated, particularly as to whether Carboniferous–Permian (CP) or Ordovician source rocks contributed more gas to the lower Paleozoic gas reservoirs. The expanded exploration of lower Paleozoic gas to the eastern, western, northern, and southern regions of the basin has re-initiated the debates. In this study, geochemical characteristics of gas samples from newly drilled wells in different regions of Ordos Basin in combination with the source rock evaluation were used to determine the gas origin. The carbon and hydrogen isotope of alkane indicate that gas mixing occurred in both upper Paleozoic and Ordovician weathered-crust gases, and that TSR occurred in pre-salt gases. A modified δ13C–1/Cn plot was suggested to be useful to determine the carbon isotopic patterns of gases generated from the different source rocks. The light hydrocarbon characteristic shows that oil-type gas mainly distributes in the eastern basin. A study of source-rock distributions also indicates that the most favorable Ordovician source rock is located in the eastern basin. Based on the distribution of CP coal measures, limestones and lower Paleozoic carbonate source rock, a gas accumulation history was established. The results of this study provide applicable method for identifying gas origin in Ordos Basin. Moreover, the accumulation history proposed in this study is useful for further exploration of the lower Paleozoic gas in Ordos Basin.

Oil source rock characteristics of the pelagic carbonates in the Shabwah depression, southeastern Sabatayn Basin, Yemen

Bituminous lime mudstone from the Late Tithonian--Early Barremian Naifa Formation was collected from five wells in the Shabwah depression of the southeastern Sabatayn Basin for basic organic geochemical analyses. The collected samples’ nannofossil contents were also studied. The current study preliminarily evaluated the nature of the organic matter regarding the richness and type of organic facies and their relation to oil generation potential. Most of the lime mudstone samples are organically rich and include favorable source rocks, as indicated by the high TOC content of up to 1 wt%. The presence of the warm-water index nannofossil taxa Watznaueria barnesae suggests warm climate conditions, thereby contributing to high bioproductivity that consequently enhanced organic richness. The samples are also hydrogen rich, with HI values between 302 and 740 mg HC/g TOC, resulting in two dominant organic facies of kerogen Types I and II, and are consistent with high bioproductivity of phytoplankton algae in warm-water conditions during deposition. Both geochemical maturity values Tmax and PI indicate that the bituminous lime mudstones are at different thermal maturity levels and range from immature to early mature stages of the oil generation window. This implies that the bituminous lime mudstones were not buried to a sufficient depth for commercial oil generation. Therefore, further exploration efforts in deeper parts of the Shabwah depression, particularly in the area around well Misah-01, are recommended.

Hydrocarbon Generation, Migration, and Accumulation in the Eocene Niubao Formation in the Lunpola Basin, Tibet, China: Insights from Basin Modeling and Fluid Inclusion Analysis

The Eocene Niubao Formation is the primary research target of oil exploration in the Lunpola Basin. Crude oil was extracted from Well Z1 on the northern margin of the basin in 1993. In this study, an integrated evaluation of the source rock, geothermal, and maturity histories and the fluid inclusion and fluid potential distributions was performed to aid in predicting areas of hydrocarbon accumulation. Due to the abundance of organic matter, the kerogen types, maturity, and oil-sources correlate with the geochemical data. The middle submember of the second member of the Niubao Formation (E2n2-2) is the most favorable source rock based on the amount of oil produced from the E2n2-3and E2n3-1reservoirs. One- and two-dimensional basin modeling, using BasinMod software, shows that the E2n2-2source rock started to generate hydrocarbon at 35-30 Ma, reached a maturity of Ro=0.7% at 25-20 Ma, and at present, it has reached the peak oil generation stage with a thermal maturity of Ro=0.8% to less than Ro=1.0%. By using fiuid inclusion petrography, fiuorescence spectroscopy, and microthermometry, two major periods of oil charging have been revealed at 26.1-17.5 and 32.4-24.6 Ma. The oil accumulation modeling results, conducted by using the Trinity software, show a good fit of the oil shows in the wells and predict that the structural highs and lithologic transitions within the Jiangriaco and Paco sags are potential oil traps. KEY WORDS:Niubao Formation, Lunpola Basin, source rocks, basin modeling, fluid inclusions, hydrocarbon migration and accumulation, petroleum geology.

Application of the Fractal Method to the Characterization of Organic Heterogeneities in Shales and Exploration Evaluation of Shale Oil

The first member of the Qingshankou Formation, in the Gulong Sag in the northern part of the Songliao Basin, has become an important target for unconventional hydrocarbon exploration. The organic-rich shale within this formation not only provides favorable hydrocarbon source rocks for conventional reservoirs, but also has excellent potential for shale oil exploration due to its thickness, abundant organic matter, the overall mature oil generation state, high hydrocarbon retention, and commonly existing overpressure. Geochemical analyses of the total organic carbon content (TOC) and rock pyrolysis evaluation (Rock-Eval) have allowed for the quantitative evaluation of the organic matter in the shale. However, the organic matter exhibits a highly heterogeneous spatial distribution and its magnitude varies even at the millimeter scale. In addition, quantification of the TOC distribution is significant to the evaluation of shale reservoirs and the estimation of shale oil resources. In this study, well log data was calibrated using the measured TOC of core samples collected from 11 boreholes in the study area; the continuous TOC distribution within the target zone was obtained using the △logR method; the organic heterogeneity of the shale was characterized using multiple fractal models, including the box-counting dimension (Bd), the power law, and the Hurst exponent models. According to the fractal dimension (D) calculation, the vertical distribution of the TOC was extremely homogeneous. The power law calculation indicates that the vertical distribution of the TOC in the first member of the Qingshankou Formation is multi-fractal and highly heterogeneous. The Hurst exponent varies between 0.23 and 0.49. The lower values indicate higher continuity and enrichment of organic matter, while the higher values suggest a more heterogeneous organic matter distribution. Using the average TOC, coefficient of variation (CV), Bd, D, inflection point, and the Hurst exponent as independent variables, the interpolation prediction method was used to evaluate the exploration potential of the study area. The results indicate that the areas containing boreholes B, C, D, F, and I in the western part of the Gulong Sag are the most promising potential exploration areas. In conclusion, the findings of this study are of significant value in predicting favorable exploration zones for unconventional reservoirs.