Characteristics and Controlling Factors of Pores in Different Shale Lithofacies Reservoirs of Lower Cambrian Qiongzhusi Formation, Southwestern Sichuan Basin, China

The shale reservoirs of the Lower Cambrian Qiongzhusi Formation are widely distributed in the Sichuan Basin and have abundant gas resources. However, the shale lithofacies of the Qiongzhusi Formation are complex due to frequent sea level changes. The reservoir pore structure characteristics and gas content of different shale lithofacies vary significantly, which makes identifying the 'sweet spot' a challenging task. In this study, core observation and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to analyze the lithofacies types and characteristics of the study area. The pore types of different shale lithofacies were observed using field emission-scanning electron microscopy. Pore structures were studied using low-temperature gas (including N2 and CO2) physisorption, and the pore volume (PV), specific surface area (SSA) and pore structure were systematically characterized. The primary factors influencing pore formation in different types of shale lithofacies were analyzed by combining geochemical experiments and mineral contents. The results indicate that the lithofacies of the Qiongzhusi Formation shale in the study area can be classified into five categories according to mineral compositions: Siliceous argillaceous shale (CM-1), Argillaceous siliceous mixed shale (M-2), Argillaceous siliceous shale (S-3), Siliceous rock (S) and Calcareous siliceous shale (S-2). Pores are abundant in S-3 shale, M-2 shale and CM-1 shale. The S-3 shale is more enriched in organic pores and clay mineral pores compared to other lithofacies shales, and the pore morphology is mainly wedge-shaped and plate-like. M-2 shale and CM-1 shale are rich in clay minerals and mainly develop clay mineral pores and are mainly wedge-shaped and plate-like. The S shale and S-2 shale mainly develop interparticle pores and clay mineral pores, which are mainly slit-like. The results show that TOC, pyrite content, quartz and feldspar mineral content, clay mineral type and content affect the pore structure in the study area. Quartz and feldspar content have a negative effect on micropore and mesopore volumes. TOCs have a weak positive correlation with micropore volume and micropore SSA. Clay mineral content has significant positive effects on the PV and SSA of micropores and mesopores, indicating that clay mineral content is the main factor affecting the pore structure of shale.

Automated summary

This study analyzed the types and characteristics of shale lithofacies in the Lower Cambrian Qiongzhusi Formation in the Sichuan Basin. It found significant differences in pore structure among different lithofacies, with S-3 shale having the most abundant pores. Clay mineral content was identified as the main factor affecting shale pore structure.