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Role of parasequence-scale sequence stratigraphic analysis in integrated reservoir characterization and modeling of shallow-water carbonate strata

Conference · · AAPG Bulletin (American Association of Petroleum Geologists); (United States)
OSTI ID:5802636

The predictable stacking patterns of parasequences within different systems tracts of a sequence and of facies and rock-fabric successions within parasequences provide a powerful conceptual framework for integrated analysis of carbonate reservoirs. Stratigraphic analysis using a parasequence approach emphasizes correlation through comparative mapping of genetically related facies successions rather than the classic marker bed approach. The basic shallow-water carbonate parasequence is the upward-shallowing cycle ({approximately}fifth-order cycle, average period {minus}20,000 yr) that records a single progradational event represented most often by an upward-coarsening facies/rock-fabric succession. Interpretation of depositional environment is best accomplished at the parasequence scale because lateral facies relationships within these units best approximate time-equivalent genetically related deposits. The upward-shallowing facies succession that forms a parasequence provides a natural framework for quantification of geologic descriptions through rock-fabric-oriented petrophysical analysis. Permeability and saturation are directly related to sediment grain size, sorting, and interparticle porosity. Grain-dominated rocks have higher permeability and oil-saturation values than do mud-dominated rocks with the same interparticle porosity. Grain size and sorting occur systematically and predictably in the upward-shallowing parasequences. Porosity, grain size, and sorting can be significantly altered by diagenetic processes such as dolomitization, cementation, and dissolution. Diagenetic overprints are, however, commonly controlled by the depositional textures and thus also are predictable.

OSTI ID:
5802636
Report Number(s):
CONF-910403--
Journal Information:
AAPG Bulletin (American Association of Petroleum Geologists); (United States), Journal Name: AAPG Bulletin (American Association of Petroleum Geologists); (United States) Vol. 75:3; ISSN AABUD; ISSN 0149-1423
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English