Unlocking Complex Reservoirs for Smarter Exploration: Mapping Diagenetic Pathways in Miocene Carbonates, Gulf of Suez, Egypt

Understanding diagenetic processes in carbonate reservoirs is crucial for improving hydrocarbon exploration, especially in geologically complex settings like the Gulf of Suez. This study focuses on mapping diagenetic pathways within Miocene carbonates and carbonate in general to better predict reservoir quality and distribution. An integrated methodology combining petrographic, sedimentological, petrophysical, and stratigraphic data was applied to core samples and ditch cuttings. Analytical techniques, including thin-section petrography, SEM, and well-log correlation, were used to identify key diagenetic features such as dolomitization, cementation, dissolution, and fracturing. Results reveal that diagenetic overprints vary spatially and are strongly influenced by depositional facies, structural position, and burial history. High-quality reservoir zones correspond with dolomitized facies, secondary porosity, and structural highs. Conversely, reservoir degradation is linked to compaction, anhydrite cementation, detrital clay influx, and over-dolomitization. The study highlights that integrating diagenetic mapping with structural and stratigraphic frameworks significantly enhances reservoir prediction and reduces exploration risk. This predictive approach is especially valuable in mature basins with complex carbonate systems.