Results of magnetic HGI and radiometric surveys in W. Canada
- Topaz Energy Exploration Ltd., Calgary, Alberta (Canada)
This article presents four case histories in which ground-based magnetic horizontal gradient intensity (HGI) and radiometric surveys were used in Western Canada for cost-effective geochemical exploration for hydrocarbons. The authors has developed these two surface exploration techniques from published studies and adapted them for use on the prairies the past 7 years. These surveys are used in conjunction with the usual geologic and seismic studies for: (1) evaluating prospects and land; (2) verifying seismic anomalies and inexpensively locating areas for conducting expensive 3D seismic surveys. Occasionally, as in two of the case histories discussed, these surveys were used successfully as stand-alone exploration methods where seismic exploration is not effective. The HGI and radiometric surveys measure, by geophysical methods, those effects associated with geochemical alterations due to vertical microseepage of hydrocarbons. The total cost, including permitting, data acquisition, data processing, and interpretation of the combination HGI and radiometric surveys is about 15% the total cost of a 3D seismic survey. Because of this, the author finds them an attractive and rapid survey adjunct to traditional exploration. They substantially reduce finding costs and significantly raise the probability of financial success.
- OSTI ID:
- 477492
- Journal Information:
- Oil and Gas Journal, Vol. 95, Issue 20; Other Information: PBD: 19 May 1997
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Mississippi exploration field trials using microbial, radiometrics, free soil gas, and other techniques
Case histories and chemical surveys across Appalachian reservoirs