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Physical, Chemical and Biological Processes in Energy Geoscience
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Physical, Chemical and Biological Processes in Energy Geoscience

A special issue of Processes (ISSN 2227-9717). This special issue belongs to the section "Energy Systems".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 October 2023) | Viewed by 24951

Printed Edition Available!
A printed edition of this Special Issue is available here.

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Ping Gao

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Energy Resources, China University of Geosciences, Beijing 100083, China
Interests: sedimentation and diagenesis of fine-grained sediments; deep shale gas; organic petrology; petroleum geochemistry; sedimentary geochemistry
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Yidong Cai

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. School of Energy Resources, China University of Geosciences, Beijing 100083, China
2. Coal Reservoir Laboratory of National Engineering Research Center of Coalbed Methane Development & Utilization, Beijing 100083, China
Interests: geological process; energy geoscience; geo-energy resources evaluation; unconventional oil and gas source rock; reservoir fluids performance; micromechanical properties; scale-span structure; oil/gas/water adsorption/desorption
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Yingfang Zhou

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Engineering, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB24 3FX, UK
Interests: digital rock physics; CO2 geological storage and utilization; multiscale porous material characterization
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Quan Gan

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
State Key Laboratory of Coal Mine Disaster Dynamics and Control, Chongqing University, Chongqing 40044, China
Interests: rock mechanics; fault reactivation; THMC coupling modelling; hydraulic fracturing; EGS development

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Recently, an increasing number of countries have pledged to cut greenhouse gas emissions in order to prevent the worst consequences of the climate crisis. Strategies to actualize this target include the use of low carbon energy and renewable energy (e.g., geothermal resources), as well as the geological storage and utilization of CO2. Since this energy transformation requires a relatively long time and the current associated technologies still need to be updated, the replacement of high-carbon fossil energy with low-carbon energy and renewable energy will be gradual. The relatively low carbon fossil energy, natural gas, is associated with relatively low emissions of greenhouse gas (i.e., CO2), which plays an important role in the energy transformation from fossil energy to renewable energy. Therefore, unconventional gases (e.g., shale gas, coalbed methane) as low carbon energy accounts for an increasing proportion in the total yields of global natural gas. The formation, occurrence, and flow processes of natural gas in the multiscale reservoirs are becoming new hot research topics. In addition, the fluids behaviors of oil, gas, and water in porous media (e.g., coalbed methane, shale gas, and geothermal energy reservoirs) and the associated complex physical, chemical, and biological processes will be particularly important for geo-energy exploration and exploitation together with the carbon capture, utilization, and storage. We therefore call for submissions to be included as part of a Special Issue covering the new advances in physical, chemical, and biological processes in energy geoscience, especially for unconventional gases and geothermal energy. Novel, original research articles and reviews are all welcomed. Potential topics include but are not limited to the following:

1. Depositional and diagenetic processes of geo-energy reservoirs.

2. Formation and evolution mechanism of pores and fractures.

3. Characterization of organic and mineralogical properties of unconventional geo-energy.

4. Fluids flow behaviors in porous media under geological conditions.

5. Exploration, development, and utilization of geo-energy resources (including oil, gas, and geothermal resources).

Dr. Ping Gao
Prof. Dr. Yidong Cai
Dr. Yingfang Zhou
Prof. Dr. Quan Gan
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Processes is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • depositional process
  • diagenetic process
  • unconventional gases
  • geothermal energy
  • fluid transport and storage process
  • geo-energy recovery process

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Published Papers (15 papers)

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Research

20 pages, 7128 KiB  
Article
Organic Matter Source, Fluid Migration, and Geological Significance of Stylolites in Organic-Lean Carbonate Rocks: A Case from the Sichuan Basin
by Shengnan Liu, Shiju Liu, Gang Gao and Rukai Zhu
Processes 2023, 11(10), 2967; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11102967 - 13 Oct 2023
Viewed by 1439
Abstract
Carbonate rocks exhibit significant heterogeneity as both a source rock and reservoir. Stylolite formation plays a crucial role in the enrichment of organic matter and the migration of geofluids within carbonate rocks. In order to study the enrichment mechanism of organic matter and [...] Read more.
Carbonate rocks exhibit significant heterogeneity as both a source rock and reservoir. Stylolite formation plays a crucial role in the enrichment of organic matter and the migration of geofluids within carbonate rocks. In order to study the enrichment mechanism of organic matter and the geofluid migration mode in the stylolites developed in carbonate rocks, stylolite-bearing core samples from the Dachigan structural belt in the eastern Sichuan Basin were collected. The stylolites and matrix were subjected to the total organic carbon (TOC) test and Rock-Eval pyrolysis, thin-section observation under fluorescent light, whole-rock X-ray diffraction, carbon and oxygen isotope analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. The organic matter occurring in the stylolites is mainly in the form of three types: soluble organic matter, pyrobitumen, and bitumen. This suggests that the organic matter within the stylolites mainly consists of secondary migrated organic matter. The stylolites also exhibit well-developed secondary dolomite and pyrite resulting from late-diagenetic recrystallization. These minerals contribute to the preservation of intercrystalline pore spaces and fractures, providing favorable conditions for oil and gas accumulation and migration. The strong cementation observed at the contact between the stylolites and matrix, along with the presence of secondary minerals nearby, may be attributed to the fractionation of light and heavy oil components during the migration of hydrocarbon fluids from the matrix to the stylolites. The thicknesses of the stylolites vary within the bulk, indicating severe diagenesis in thinner areas. Consequently, this leads to significant fractionation effects. The fractionation of crude oil components by stylolites poses challenges for the study of definitive oil–source correlations. To overcome these challenges, future research could investigate biomarker compounds to attempt oil–source correlations. Additionally, future efforts should take into consideration the spatial variation in the crude oil properties. Understanding the role of stylolites in organic matter enrichment and geofluid migration is crucial for optimizing exploration strategies in the Sichuan Basin, a region of growing importance in the energy industry. Moreover, our findings shed light on the complex interactions within stylolite-bearing rocks, which are not limited to this specific basin. These insights offer valuable contributions to the broader field of geology and reservoir characterization, enhancing our ability to predict and interpret similar geological formations globally. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical, Chemical and Biological Processes in Energy Geoscience)
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20 pages, 11225 KiB  
Article
A Method for Defining Sedimentary Characteristics and Distributions and Its Application in Qinnan Depression, Bohai Bay Basin
by Zehua Zhang, Chunqiang Xu, Chenjie Wang, Hong Li, Wensen Zhu, Hongliang Wang, Kaixuan Liang and Yong Su
Processes 2023, 11(9), 2539; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11092539 - 24 Aug 2023
Viewed by 1112
Abstract
A new method incorporating geophysical analysis and geological analysis is proposed to define the sedimentary characteristics and distributions in basins with few drilling wells to promote the exploration of reservoirs. This method is applied to a study, through which its principles, closed-loop workflow [...] Read more.
A new method incorporating geophysical analysis and geological analysis is proposed to define the sedimentary characteristics and distributions in basins with few drilling wells to promote the exploration of reservoirs. This method is applied to a study, through which its principles, closed-loop workflow and technologies are introduced in detail and the sedimentary characteristics and distributions of the study area are accurately defined. During the application process of the method, a compatible geological model is established, based on which the seismic data are interpreted and the results derived from the interpretation are further verified via seismic forward modeling. The study results exhibit a successive sand-rich deposition from the retrogradational gully-filling gravity flow deposition including near-shore fans, slope fans and basin-floor fans delimited by different slope break belts in transgressive sequences to the progradational delta deposition in a retrogressive sequence including braided river deltas with a long extension distance and fan deltas developed along a steep slope belt. And the potential reservoirs are located at the point-out sites of sand bodies with lower average P-wave velocities than those of muddy sediments. The proposition and application of this method are of great significance for oil and gas exploration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical, Chemical and Biological Processes in Energy Geoscience)
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25 pages, 6717 KiB  
Article
Factors That Control the Reservoir Quality of the Carboniferous–Permian Tight Sandstones in the Shilounan Block, Ordos Basin
by Jing Wang, Fawang Ye, Chuan Zhang and Zhaodong Xi
Processes 2023, 11(8), 2279; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11082279 - 28 Jul 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1020
Abstract
The Carboniferous–Permian, coal-bearing, sedimentary succession on the eastern edge of the Ordos Basin in the Shilounan Block contains large accumulations of hydrocarbon resources. During the exploration of coalbed methane and tight sandstone gas in the study area, multiple drilling wells in the tight [...] Read more.
The Carboniferous–Permian, coal-bearing, sedimentary succession on the eastern edge of the Ordos Basin in the Shilounan Block contains large accumulations of hydrocarbon resources. During the exploration of coalbed methane and tight sandstone gas in the study area, multiple drilling wells in the tight sandstone reservoirs have yielded favorable gas logging results. The Benxi, Taiyuan, Shanxi, Shihezi, and Shiqianfeng formations contain multiple sets of sandstone reservoirs, and the reservoir quality and the controlling factors of its tight sandstones were affected by sedimentation, diagenetic alteration, and pore structure. This study comprehensively examines the sedimentary environment, distribution of sand bodies, and physical characteristics of tight sandstone reservoirs through drilling, coring, logging, and experimental testing. The results indicate that the Carboniferous–Permian tight sandstones are mainly composed of lithic sandstone and lithic quartz sandstone. The reservoir quality is relatively poor, with an average permeability of 0.705 mD and porosity of 6.20%. The development of reservoirs in the study area is primarily influenced by diagenesis and sedimentation. Compaction and cementation, which are destructive diagenetic processes, significantly reduced the porosity of the sandstone reservoirs in the study area. Compaction primarily causes a reduction in porosity and accounts for over 70% of the overall decrease in porosity. Dissolution, as a constructive diagenetic process, has a limited effect on porosity and is the primary reason for the relatively tight nature of these reservoirs. The macroscopic and microscopic characteristics of tight sandstone reservoirs were used to establish the evaluation and classification criteria, after which the sandstone reservoirs in the study area were divided into three types. The poor quality type II and type III reservoirs are predominant, while high quality type I reservoirs are primarily limited to the Shihezi Formation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical, Chemical and Biological Processes in Energy Geoscience)
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21 pages, 6754 KiB  
Article
Matrix Compressibility and Its Controlling Factors of the Marine Shale Gas Reservoir: A Case Study of the Ning228 Well in the Southwest Sichuan Basin, China
by Jiaming Chen, Yongkai Qiu, Yujing Qian and Xianglong Fang
Processes 2023, 11(7), 2136; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11072136 - 17 Jul 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1127
Abstract
Exploring the compressibility of the deeply buried marine shale matrix and its controlling factors can help achieve efficient petroleum production. Taking ten sets of deeply buried marine shale core samples from Ning228 wells in the Yanjin area as an example, the matrix compressibility [...] Read more.
Exploring the compressibility of the deeply buried marine shale matrix and its controlling factors can help achieve efficient petroleum production. Taking ten sets of deeply buried marine shale core samples from Ning228 wells in the Yanjin area as an example, the matrix compressibility and pore characteristics of deeply buried marine shale reservoirs were investigated by applying mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) and nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms at a low temperature of 77 K. Mathematical models (based on MIP and nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms) were established to analyze the effects of TOC, mineral components, and pore structure on matrix compressibility. The relationship between the compressibility coefficient and the brittleness index was also established. The results show that the compressibility of the shale matrix is significant when the mercury injection pressure ranges from 8.66 to 37 MPa. For deeply buried marine shale, the matrix compressibility is in the range of 0.23 × 10−4–22.03 × 10−4 MPa−1. The influence of TOC and minerals on matrix compressibility is mainly reflected in the control effect of pore structure. High TOC content decreases the overall shale elastic modulus, and high clay mineral content enhances shale stress sensitivity, resulting in a significant matrix compressibility effect. For the effect of pore structure on compressibility, the pore content in shale has a positive effect on matrix compressibility. In addition, the pore-specific surface area is critical to the effective variation of shale matrix compressibility, indicating that the complexity of the shale pore structure is a key factor affecting matrix compressibility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical, Chemical and Biological Processes in Energy Geoscience)
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14 pages, 5738 KiB  
Article
Study on the Preparation of ZnFeO4 by Roasting Zinc-Containing Gossan Ore
by Jinlin Yang, Zongyu Li, Xingnan Huo, Hangyu Li, Shizhen Liao, Shaojian Ma and Hengjun Li
Processes 2023, 11(7), 1991; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11071991 - 1 Jul 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1236
Abstract
Gossan ore is typically abandoned after mining, which not only increases mining production costs but also wastes mineral resources, and its long-term accumulation can easily lead to environmental pollution hazards. Therefore, this paper takes zinc-containing gossan ore as the research object and, based [...] Read more.
Gossan ore is typically abandoned after mining, which not only increases mining production costs but also wastes mineral resources, and its long-term accumulation can easily lead to environmental pollution hazards. Therefore, this paper takes zinc-containing gossan ore as the research object and, based on the high content of zinc and iron minerals in gossan ore, this study conducts a roasting experiment to prepare ZnFeO4. X-ray diffraction is used to characterize and analyze the ZnFeO4 sample prepared by roasting zinc-containing gossan ore. The experimental results indicate that controlling the particle size of the roasted ore sample to −0.074 mm can effectively remove impurities and facilitate the reaction. The influence of roasting temperature and time on the formation of ZnFeO4 is remarkable. The conditions for roasting zinc-containing gossan ore to maximize the ZnFeO4 content are as follows: −0.074 mm particle size ore sample, reaction zinc/iron molar ratio of 1:2, mechanical activation time of 120 min, roasting temperature of 1050 °C, and roasting time of 120 min. These findings provide new ideas for the utilization of gossan ore and lay a theoretical foundation for the efficient development and utilization of difficult-to-select zinc-containing gossan ore. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical, Chemical and Biological Processes in Energy Geoscience)
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16 pages, 4099 KiB  
Article
Geochemical Characteristics and Development Model of the Coal-Measure Source Rock in the Kuqa Depression of Tarim Basin
by Xiujian Ding, Tianze Gao, Xianzhang Yang, Zhenping Xu, Changchao Chen, Keyu Liu and Xueqi Zhang
Processes 2023, 11(6), 1777; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11061777 - 11 Jun 2023
Viewed by 1351
Abstract
The development model of the coal-measure source rock may be different from that of the lacustrine source rock. The depositional environment of the coal-measure source rock is dominated by weak oxidation and weak reduction, and the majority of the organic material originates from [...] Read more.
The development model of the coal-measure source rock may be different from that of the lacustrine source rock. The depositional environment of the coal-measure source rock is dominated by weak oxidation and weak reduction, and the majority of the organic material originates from terrestrial higher plants. Taking the Jurassic coal-measure source rock in the Kuqa Depression as the research object, the geochemical characteristics of the source rock are comprehensively analyzed, the primary controlling elements of source rock development are made clear, and the development model of the coal-measure source rock is established. This study contributes to the field of source rock prediction and oil and gas exploration. The lithology of the coal-measure source rock in the Kuqa Depression is mainly mudstone, carbonaceous mudstone, and coal, which are medium- to good-quality source rocks, and the organic matter type is mainly II2 and III. Terrestrial organic matter is a key factor in controlling the formation of coal-measure source rocks, and the sedimentation rate also has a certain influence. The redox degree of the depositional environment, water salinity, and clay mineral content has little influence on the development of coal-measure source rocks. By integrating the main control factors, the development model of the coal-measure source rock is established. It is considered that the development model and distribution characteristics of the coal-measure source rock are different from the traditional understanding of lacustrine source rocks, and it is pointed out that the coal-measure source rock in the gentle slope zone is more developed than the sag area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical, Chemical and Biological Processes in Energy Geoscience)
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17 pages, 3484 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Reconstruction Potential for Low-Production Vertical Wells of CBM in the Southern Qinshui Basin
by Kaihong Xue, Beilei Sun and Chao Liu
Processes 2023, 11(6), 1741; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11061741 - 7 Jun 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 914
Abstract
Production practice has shown that not all low-production coalbed methane (CBM) wells can be reconstructed into high-production wells through secondary stimulation, so it is necessary and timely to establish an evaluation index system, form an evaluation method, and evaluate the reconstruction potential of [...] Read more.
Production practice has shown that not all low-production coalbed methane (CBM) wells can be reconstructed into high-production wells through secondary stimulation, so it is necessary and timely to establish an evaluation index system, form an evaluation method, and evaluate the reconstruction potential of low-production wells. Based on the development practice of CBM in the southern Qinshui Basin, this paper analyzes the influencing factors of low production in vertical wells from the aspects of coal and rock reservoir conditions, drilling and completion engineering, and drainage engineering. It is proposed that the evaluation of the reconstruction potential of low-production wells should focus on the quality of CBM resources, the difficulty of CBM desorption and diffusion, and the degree of damage to coal reservoirs caused by the initial reservoir stimulation. Twelve parameters, including gas content, gas saturation, reservoir pressure gradient, critical desorption–reservoir pressure ratio, and permeability, were systematically selected as evaluation indicators, and the grading reference values for each evaluation indicator were comparatively given. Then, a multi-factor comprehensive evaluation method for the reconstruction potential of low-production wells based on gray correlation analysis method was established. The reconstruction potential of low-production wells was divided into three levels: high, medium, and low. When reconstructing low-production wells, it is recommended to prioritize the low-production wells with high reconstruction potential, followed by those with medium reconstruction potential, while low-production wells with low reconstruction potential are not recommended for reconstruction. Finally, the evaluation method was used to evaluate the reconstruction potential of five low-production wells in a CBM block, and suggestions for the reconstruction order and reconstruction potential levels for each well were given. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical, Chemical and Biological Processes in Energy Geoscience)
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12 pages, 45756 KiB  
Article
Characteristics and Controlling Role in Hydrocarbon Accumulation of Strike-Slip Faults in the Maigaiti Slope
by Bin Wang, Changchao Chen, Jiangwei Shang, Ming Lei, Wenhui Zhu, Yang Qu, Di Sun, Chunyan Sun and Li Li
Processes 2023, 11(4), 1049; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11041049 - 31 Mar 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1459
Abstract
The Maigaiti Slope is a significant oil-gas-bearing field in the Tarim Basin. Based on 3D and 2D seismic data, systematic interpretation, stage sorting and genetic analysis of strike-slip faults in the Maigaiti Slope were carried out for the first time. The relationship between [...] Read more.
The Maigaiti Slope is a significant oil-gas-bearing field in the Tarim Basin. Based on 3D and 2D seismic data, systematic interpretation, stage sorting and genetic analysis of strike-slip faults in the Maigaiti Slope were carried out for the first time. The relationship between strike-slip faults and hydrocarbon accumulation was studied in combination with the fine dissection of hydrocarbon reservoirs. The study suggested that: (1) Staging and segmentation characteristics of strike-slip faults are evidently presented in the Maigaiti Slope. According to active periods, strike-slip faults can be divided into early Caledonian period, late Caledonian period, Hercynian period, and Himalayan period. According to plane distribution characteristics, strike-slip faults can be divided into the west Maigaiti Segment, mid-Maigaiti Segment, Madong Segment, and Bachu Segment. The main active periods and plane distribution of strike-slip faults in different sections are remarkably different. This analysis suggests that it is the response to multi-period and multi-directional tectonic movements, which are primarily dominated by the migration and evolution of the Hetian paleo-uplifts. (2) The coupling relationship between the active period of strike-slip faults and the trap forming period is the key to hydrocarbon accumulation in the Carboniferous–Ordovician, which determines the petroleum properties and enrichment horizon of the Cambrian post-salt system; medium-heavy oil is in the Caledonian period, light oil in the Indosinian period, and dry gas in the Himalayan period. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical, Chemical and Biological Processes in Energy Geoscience)
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21 pages, 7500 KiB  
Article
Effect of Formation Pressure on Pore Structure Evolution and Hydrocarbon Expulsion in Organic-Rich Marine Shale
by Xianglong Fang, Yidong Cai, Qinhong Hu, Ping Gao, Dameng Liu and Yujing Qian
Processes 2023, 11(4), 1007; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11041007 - 27 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1696
Abstract
Exploring the relationship between formation pressure and shale pore evolution is helpful for the enrichment and development of marine shale gas accumulation theory. The thermal evolution experiment was carried out on the Xiamaling Formation (Pr3x) lowly matured marine shale, which has a similar [...] Read more.
Exploring the relationship between formation pressure and shale pore evolution is helpful for the enrichment and development of marine shale gas accumulation theory. The thermal evolution experiment was carried out on the Xiamaling Formation (Pr3x) lowly matured marine shale, which has a similar sedimentary environment to the Longmaxi Formation (S1l) highly matured marine shale. Comparative experiments of open and semi-closed pyrolysis and multiple pore structure characterization techniques, including CO2 and N2 physisorption, mercury intrusion porosimetry, and field emission scanning electron microscopy, were conducted. The marine shale pore evolutionary model under formation pressure is proposed by characterizing pore evolution, and hydrocarbon expulsion and retention for shales under and without formation fluid pressures. The results show that the existence of formation pressure increases the percentage of quartz and reduces the content of clay minerals. The change in formation pressure has no obvious effect on the maturity evolution of shale samples. With the increase of formation pressure, the pore morphology of shale gradually changes from narrow slit pores to ink bottle-shaped pores. The retained hydrocarbons in shale mainly occupy the mesopore space, and the existence of formation pressure promotes hydrocarbon expulsion, especially the hydrocarbon expulsion in the mesopore. In addition, formation pressure improves pore connectivity, especially in the high-over mature stage of shale. With the increase of formation pressure, the micropore volume decreases slightly, the mesopore volume increases significantly, and the macropore volume changes have two stages. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical, Chemical and Biological Processes in Energy Geoscience)
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19 pages, 6345 KiB  
Article
Genesis Types and Migration of Middle and Lower Assemblages of Natural Gas in the Eastern Belt around the Penyijingxi Sag of the Junggar Basin, NW China
by Keshun Liu, Jiangxiu Qu, Ming Zha, Hailei Liu, Xiujian Ding, Minghui Zhou and Tianze Gao
Processes 2023, 11(3), 689; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11030689 - 24 Feb 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1205
Abstract
This study analyzes the geochemical characteristics of natural gas composition, carbon isotope, and light hydrocarbon in the eastern belt around the Penyijingxi sag of the Junggar Basin. The result shows the that natural gas content is dominated by alkane gas, with low contents [...] Read more.
This study analyzes the geochemical characteristics of natural gas composition, carbon isotope, and light hydrocarbon in the eastern belt around the Penyijingxi sag of the Junggar Basin. The result shows the that natural gas content is dominated by alkane gas, with low contents of heavy hydrocarbon and non-hydrocarbon components. The overall carbon isotopic composition of the alkanes shows a trend as δ13methane (C1) < δ13ethane (C2) < δ13propane (C3) < δ13butane (C4), and all δ13C1 values are <−30‰, which are typical of gases of organic origin. The natural gas is mainly coal-derived gas from the Lower Urho formation, mixed with a small amount of oil-associated gas from the Fengcheng formation. The vertical migration of natural gas resulted in the mixing of oil-associated gas and coal-derived gas and the mixing of alkane gas at different stages of the same origin, which should be the origin of carbon isotope inversion. The diffusion migration of carboniferous oil and gas reservoirs has led to differences in gas geochemical characteristics among gas wells. These migration characteristics of natural gas may indicate that the shallow layers are a favorable stratum for the next step of oil and gas exploration in the eastern belt around the Penyijingxi sag. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical, Chemical and Biological Processes in Energy Geoscience)
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14 pages, 9200 KiB  
Article
Coupling Relationship between Diagenesis and Hydrocarbon Charging in Middle Permian–Lower Triassic in the Eastern Slope of Mahu Sag in Junggar Basin, Northwest China
by Wenlong Jiang, Ping Song, Hailei Liu, Baoli Bian, Xueyong Wang, Wenjian Guo and Nan Wang
Processes 2023, 11(2), 345; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11020345 - 20 Jan 2023
Viewed by 1536
Abstract
In this study, a variety of test and analysis methods, such as cast thin sections, fluorescent thin sections, scanning electron microscopy, fluid inclusions, etc., were comprehensively used and combined with logging data, sedimentary systems, burial history and other research results, to systematically study [...] Read more.
In this study, a variety of test and analysis methods, such as cast thin sections, fluorescent thin sections, scanning electron microscopy, fluid inclusions, etc., were comprehensively used and combined with logging data, sedimentary systems, burial history and other research results, to systematically study the diagenesis characteristics of Middle Permian Lower Wuerhe formation–Lower Triassic Baikouquan formation reservoirs and their control on hydrocarbon accumulation. The coupling relationship between the hydrocarbon accumulation process and reservoir secondary pores was established. The result shows that besides the development of primary intergranular pores, the reservoir develops secondary pores, such as particle dissolution pores, cement dissolution pores and fractures. The development of secondary dissolution pores, such as particle dissolution pores, carbonate and zeolite cement dissolution pores, is mainly controlled by the range and scale of organic acids produced by the thermal evolution of source rocks. It is considered that being located in the updip direction of source rocks, being involved in the development of the unconformity surface and the faults connecting source rocks, and being involved in the development of alkaline cements (such as laumontite) are the three dominant conditions for the development of secondary dissolution pores in the study area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical, Chemical and Biological Processes in Energy Geoscience)
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11 pages, 11997 KiB  
Article
Petroleum Geology and Exploration of Deep-Seated Volcanic Condensate Gas Reservoir around the Penyijingxi Sag in the Junggar Basin
by Baoli Bian, Ablimit Iming, Tianze Gao, Hailei Liu, Wenlong Jiang, Xueyong Wang and Xiujian Ding
Processes 2022, 10(11), 2430; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr10112430 - 17 Nov 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2410
Abstract
Many types of volcanic rock oil and gas reservoirs have been found in China, showing great petroleum exploration potential. Volcanic reservoir also is one of the key fields of exploration in the Junggar Basin and mainly concentrated in the middle and shallow layers, [...] Read more.
Many types of volcanic rock oil and gas reservoirs have been found in China, showing great petroleum exploration potential. Volcanic reservoir also is one of the key fields of exploration in the Junggar Basin and mainly concentrated in the middle and shallow layers, while the deep volcanic rock and natural gas fields have not been broken through. Based on comprehensive analysis of core observation, single well analysis, reservoir description, source rocks evaluation, combined with seismic data and time-frequency electromagnetic technology, multiple volcanic rock exploration targets were identified, and industrial oil and gas flow was obtained in the well SX 16 of the Penyijingxi Sag, western Junggar Basin. It is believed that the deep Permian source rocks have relatively higher natural gas generation potential and volcanic breccia usually have large reservoir space. And the mudstone of the Upper Wuerhe Formation played as the role of caprock. The success of exploration well SX16 has achieved a major breakthrough in natural gas exploration in the Penyijingxi Sag, which has essential guiding significance for the exploration of deep volcanic rocks and large-scale gas exploration in the Junggar Basin. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical, Chemical and Biological Processes in Energy Geoscience)
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23 pages, 9601 KiB  
Article
Pore Size Distribution Characterization by Joint Interpretation of MICP and NMR: A Case Study of Chang 7 Tight Sandstone in the Ordos Basin
by Chaozheng Li, Xiangbai Liu, Fuliang You, Peng Wang, Xinluo Feng and Zhazha Hu
Processes 2022, 10(10), 1941; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr10101941 - 26 Sep 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2915
Abstract
Pore size distribution characterization of unconventional tight reservoirs is extremely significant for an optimized extraction of petroleum from such reservoirs. In the present study, mercury injection capillary pressure (MICP) and low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) are integrated to evaluate the pore size distribution [...] Read more.
Pore size distribution characterization of unconventional tight reservoirs is extremely significant for an optimized extraction of petroleum from such reservoirs. In the present study, mercury injection capillary pressure (MICP) and low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) are integrated to evaluate the pore size distribution of the Chang 7 tight sandstone reservoir. The results show that the Chang 7 tight sandstones are characterized by high clay mineral content and fine grain size. They feature complex micro-nano-pore network system, mainly composed of regular primary intergranular pores, dissolved pores, inter-crystalline pores, and micro-fractures. Compared to the porosity obtained from MICP, the NMR porosity is closer to the gas-measured porosity (core analysis), and thus can more accurately describe the total pore space of the tight sandstone reservoirs. The pore throat distribution (PTD) from MICP presents a centralized distribution with high amplitude, while the pore size distribution (PSD) derived from NMR shows a unimodal distribution or bimodal distribution with low amplitude. It is notable that the difference between the PSD and the PTD is always related to the pore network composed of large pores connecting with narrow throats. The PSD always coincides very well with the PTD in the very tight non-reservoirs with a much lower porosity and permeability, probably due to the pore geometry that is dominated by the cylindrical pores. However, a significant inconsistency between the PSD and PTD in tight reservoirs of relatively high porosity and low permeability is usually associated with the pore network that is dominated by the sphere-cylindrical pores. Additionally, Euclidean distance between PSD and PTD shows a good positive correlation with pore throat ratio (PTR), further indicating that the greater difference of pore bodies and pore throats, the more obvious differentiation of two distributions. In summary, the MICP and NMR techniques imply the different profiles of pore structure, which has an important implication for deep insight into pore structure and accurate evaluation of petrophysical properties in the tight sandstone reservoir. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical, Chemical and Biological Processes in Energy Geoscience)
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16 pages, 53405 KiB  
Article
Gas Distribution and Its Geological Factors in the No.5 Coal Seam of the Weibei Field, Southeastern Ordos Basin, North China
by Yongkai Qiu, Hui Wang, Guangshan Guo, Rujun Mo, Zhejun Pan, Yidong Cai and Abulaitijiang Abuduerxiti
Processes 2022, 10(4), 659; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr10040659 - 28 Mar 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2063
Abstract
The distribution of gas contents in the No.5 coal seams of the Weibei Field of southeastern Ordos Basin, North China, is highly variable and its mechanism remains unclear. In this study, systematic evaluation of the gas content and its geological control factors are [...] Read more.
The distribution of gas contents in the No.5 coal seams of the Weibei Field of southeastern Ordos Basin, North China, is highly variable and its mechanism remains unclear. In this study, systematic evaluation of the gas content and its geological control factors are conducted based on the field investigation together with 16 coalbed methane (CBM) wells in the Weibei Field, southeastern Ordos Basin, North China. The gas content variability is determined from the perspectives of gas generation, migration, and preservation. The results indicate that the gas generation is largely relevant with the subsidence and fluctuation of the coal seam during the middle-late Yanshanian orogeny, which controls the gas content variability of the Weibei Field. Besides, gas migration and preservation determine the gas content on a regional scale, significantly related to fault types, roof lithology, burial depth, and hydrodynamic conditions, but scarcely affected by the roof thickness. In the Weibei Field, the geological models controlling gas content are identified as (1) hydrodynamic trapping of gas in the deep burial depth and thrust faults, and (2) gas loss by groundwater flushing and normal faults. Basically, the first mechanism causes the high gas content of the east zone, whereas the other one is responsible for the low gas content in the west zone of the study area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical, Chemical and Biological Processes in Energy Geoscience)
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19 pages, 5680 KiB  
Article
The Whole-Aperture Pore Structure Characteristics and Their Controlling Factors of the Dawuba Formation Shale in Western Guizhou
by Kun Yuan, Wenhui Huang, Xianglin Chen, Qian Cao, Xinxin Fang, Tuo Lin, Chunshuang Jin, Shizhen Li, Chao Wang and Ting Wang
Processes 2022, 10(4), 622; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr10040622 - 22 Mar 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1827
Abstract
Since shale gas mainly occurs in shale pores, research on pore structure characteristics is the key to understanding the shale gas accumulation mechanism. The pore structure of the Lower Carboniferous Dawuba Formation shale in the Qianxi area, represented by the well QSD-1, which [...] Read more.
Since shale gas mainly occurs in shale pores, research on pore structure characteristics is the key to understanding the shale gas accumulation mechanism. The pore structure of the Lower Carboniferous Dawuba Formation shale in the Qianxi area, represented by the well QSD-1, which obtains a daily shale gas flow of 10,000 m3 and represents an important breakthrough in the investigation of marine shale gas in the Upper Paleozoic region of southern China, is characterized by high-pressure mercury compression experiments and low-temperature gas adsorption (N2 and CO2) experiments with whole pore size. The main controlling factors affecting the pore development of the shale are discussed. (i) The micropores and mesopores are more developed in the shale, and the macropores are the second most developed in the shales of the Dawuba Formation in the Qianxi area, among which the mesopores and macropores contribute most to the pore volume and the micropores and mesopores contribute most to the pore-specific surface area. (ii) The microfractures and interlayer pores of clay minerals are developed in the shales of the Dawuba Formation, which are the main storage spaces for hydrocarbon gases. (iii) The main factors affecting the adsorption capacity of the shales of the Dawuba Formation in the Qianxi area are the organic carbon content and clay mineral content of the shales, both of which have an obvious positive correlation with the variation of pore structure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical, Chemical and Biological Processes in Energy Geoscience)
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