Direct hydrocarbon detection: some examples

Abstract

Many Australian crude oils are primarily paraffinic in composition, have high API gravities (light oils) and, although under-saturated, have high gas/oil ratios. Studies show that only small quantities of gas are required to produce an impedance contrast from a water- or oil-saturated sand, and that these high gravity oils should be detectable by direct hydrocarbon techniques. Careful study of the rock properties, reflectivities and processing parameters, as illustrated from a number of field examples, are required for successful hydrocarbon detection.