Abstract
The current paper describes the application of petroleum systems modeling of Eastern Margin of the Precaspian basin with the aim of determination of potentially prolific areas for hydrocarbons and exploration risks assessment.
The main objective of the study was to build a static petroleum systems model which is capable to reproduce the existing hydrocarbon (HC) fields and therefore applicable to be used as a predictive tool for delineating the prospective hydrocarbon areas.
The presalt sequence of the basin was assessed considering different scenarios. Applying petroleum systems 1D modeling, petroleum systems quick-look analysis and play chance mapping technologies the main elements of petroleum systems were characterized in accordance with available structural, geochemical and petrophysical information and exploration risks were assessed.
The results of 1D petroleum systems modeling allowed us to calibrate the heat flow and temperature gradients for the static model. The simulation results of potential hydrocarbon migration and accumulation showed good correlation with the existing hydrocarbon fields. Finally, the results of the exploration risks assessment with indication of areas with high hydrocarbon potential were obtained.
Overall, the value and importance of petroleum systems modeling and risk assessment is highlighted in the current work. Particularly the most interesting and potentially prolific areas of the Eastern Margin of the Precaspian basin are identified.
The procedure and results presented in the paper can widely be used in the other studies in Precaspian region.
