A Petroleum system study in the Persian Gulf

Abstract A comprehensive geochemical study and research on crude oil samples from different producing oil field in the Persian Gulf resulted in preparation of the first phase of Atlas of Iranian oils which is unique in its own kind. Detailed measurements on oil physical properties included determining of API gravity, viscosity, pour point, sulfur content, Ni/V and stable carbon isotope 13C. Complementary geochemical analyses such as SARA tests, Gas Chromatography and Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry were carried out for the purpose of oil to oil correlation and in order to identify characteristic biomarkers of organic origin, depositional environment, thermal maturity and geologic age. Based on physical and chemical properties and characteristic geochemical fossils, three major petroleum systems with respective oil families were recognized in the Iranian offshore of the Persian Gulf. Most oils produced from Aboozar, Dorood, Foroozan (1 and 3) and Reshadat fields were sourced from Paleozoic petroleum system. Oils encountered in Nowrooz, Hendijan 3, Bahregansar 1and 2, Salman 2and 3 and Reshadat 2 fields are assigned to Jurassic petroleum system. Oils produced from fields including Hendijan 1and 2, Foroozan 2, Salman1, SirriA and C are sourced from Cretaceous petroleum system. Keywords: Petroleum system, Persian Gulf, Atlas of Iranian Oils