Source rocks evaluation and timing of petroleum generation of selected wells in Meleiha Area, North Western Desert, Egypt

Fifteen rock samples were subjected to comprehensive organic geochemical studies aiming to evaluate potential source rocks as well as to predict the time of petroleum generation and expulsion of Kharita, Alam El Bueib, and Khataba Fms. in some wells in Meleiha area. The study revealed the Kharita Fm. is immature and has fair potential to produce gas. The organic matter is derived from terrestrial origin. Alam El Bueib Fm. is mature with fair to good capability of producing mixed oil and gas. The organic matter is originated mainly from mixed organic sources. Khatatba Fm. is mature and has good potentiality for generating oil. The organic matter is derived mainly from marine origin. The geothermal profile revealed that Kharita Fm. reached only the early stage of hydrocarbon generation and did not enter the oil widow till the present time. Alam El Bueib Fm. entered the oil window during Late Eocene time. Khatatba Fm. entered the oil window during Late Cretaceous. Consequently, Khatatba Fm. in Meleiha area can be considered as effective source rocks for generating both oil and gas.