f Physical properties of cap-rocks, Norwegian North Sea

Hydrocarbon seals are an important and often overlooked component in the evaluation of a potential hydrocarbon accumulation. In the exploration for hydrocarbons it is considered increasingly important to assess seal risks of prospects. Critical factors are cap rock lithologies and properties, diagenesis, thickness, and local and regional continuity (Downey, 1984; Grunau et al., 1986; Grunau, 1987 ; Watts, 1987). In addition, seals must be placed in a frame of hydrocarbon habitat and evolution over time.