Verification and Application of Sequence Stratigraphy to Reservoir Characterization of Horn River Basin, Canada

Shale reservoirs, the most important unconventional resource, are difficult to characterize. Shale formations require detailed interpretation of geological, petrophysical, and geochemical analyses, and an integration of these disciplines. In terms of geological interpretation, the commonly used sequence stratigraphy analysis includes a lithofacies analysis. The application of sequence stratigraphy to shales facilitates the ability to relate between lithofacies and mineral composition, petrophysical parameters, and kerogen contents, which are affected by depositional setting. The classification of lithofacies is indispensable for reservoir quality prediction. In this study, porosity, permeability, and TOC content largely depend on lithofacies, and their correlation coefficient is relatively high. The sequence stratigraphic interpretation shows that organic carbon content usually increases within the maximum flooding surfaces and decreases stepwise. However, the relationship between total organic carbon contents and systems tract is less direct and redox dependent.

Automated summary

Shale reservoirs are difficult to characterize and require an integration of geological, petrophysical, and geochemical analyses. The application of sequence stratigraphy in shales helps in predicting reservoir quality. This study found that porosity, permeability, and TOC content are highly correlated with lithofacies.