Petroleum Geology of the East China Sea

Asia

China Offshore Oil Donghai Corporation (CODHC) in association with Core Laboratories have undertaken a Petroleum Geology and Hydrocarbon Potential Study of the Xihu Trough, East China Sea, PRC. A database of 3,000 line km of seismic (1350 km acquired by CODHC in April 1993) and four (4) wells, together with regional stratigraphic, tectonic and geological data have been provided by CODHC to Core Laboratories. The database includes reports, maps, samples (cuttings, fluids and cores) together with seismic tapes and electric logs. The project scope includes:

• Construct a basin-wide lithostratigraphic and biostratigraphic framework as a basis to establish a non-marine sequence stratigraphy and models of sedimentary facies for such sequences
• Investigate the stratigraphic distribution of effective hydrocarbon source rocks
• Determine the structural style and deformation history for each formation in the Xihu Trough and provide a balanced interpretation of the structural mechanism for the origin of the basin, especially in its early stages
• Develop concept of hydrocarbon entrapment emphasizing on such subjects as the timing of hydrocarbon entrapment versus reservoir diagenesis, the drainage area versus seal continuity, and the migration trends versus paleostructure attitude, and eventually distinguish areas where hydrocarbons would hopefully be entrapped
• Establish correlations between reservoir quality and depositional/diagenetic units
• Establish models of reservoir-seal combination over particular prospects and evaluate controls on reservoir qualities and seal effectiveness against history of overburden, heat flow and diagenesis
• Develop a summary of the petroleum geology and hydrocarbon potential of the study area

Three (3) bound interpretive volumes are provided. These volumes are fully illustrated with seismic sections, analytical data and regional data in the form of maps, isopachs and cross sections.