Abstract: Investigation of Oil-Trapping Mechanisms in Deepwater Gulf of Mexico

Paper Number: SPE-130927-PP
Title: Investigation of Oil-Trapping Mechanisms in Deepwater Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Xin Li, Joe Lach
Source: SPE ATCE Florence, 20-22 September 2010

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Oil recovery depends on geologic conditions - porous rock distribution, trapping structure and their interactions. Through numerous literature surveys and field studies, this work is to illustrate the trapping mechanisms of the remaining oil and trapped oil in deepwater Gulf of Mexico (DW GoM). Specifically, the ranges of structural settings and depositional environments in turbidite reservoirs have been addressed.

DW GoM is characterized as sparse well spacing, over-pressured reservoirs, and generally good rock and fluid properties. The small, complex, and deep fields at DW GoM provide considerable opportunities to improve recovery. Rock compaction and moderate aquifer influx are often observed and little secondary recovery has been applied due to the existence of uncertainties. Primary oil recovery averages 36% with the 80% confidence range between 21% and 42%.

As part of RPSEA (Research Partnership to Secure Energy for America) project, detailed examination of the trapped oil mechanisms has been conducted for a number of fields and reservoirs. Cases of trapped oil are reviewed in the context of eight defined geologic classification types for structural setting and depositional environment.

Correlation between trapping mechanism and geologic setting indicates the consistence property of reservoir in DW GoM. In this study, case study with actual field data for Neogene age Tertiary reservoirs is included, and followed by conclusions.

Authors established static and dynamic model referring MMS database to quantify trapped oil. This work defines the significance of trapping mechanisms so that appropriate IOR methods can be selected.