Rock Physics and Seismic Characterization of Oman’s Unconventional Reservoirs

The hydrocarbon system of Oman contains a multitude of excellent source rock intervals. Following the outcome of a play based evaluation study for the unconventional hydrocarbon potential Petroleum Development Oman has recently drilled several exploration wells to test the presence of a Liquid Rich Source (LRS) play in Oman. All wells have found good source rocks and oil has been successfully recovered. The main target intervals are two significantly different depositional systems of very different ages: The carbonate-rich Cretaceous Natih-B intervals and the Pre-Cambrian Nafun Group. Rock physics relationships together with quantitative interpretation can help to assess some uncertainties related to the Oman unconventional plays. In particular for the Nafun LRS play the TOC distribution can be deduced from good quality seismic data. For the Natih LRS play porosity distribution and possibly also TOC variations are estimated from currently available seismic volumes. This information is valuable for the placement of upcoming exploration wells as well as for improving the stratigraphy understanding.