 |
 |
| Geochemistry Should Be A Priority! |
|
The Petroleum Technology Transfer Council has released their latest report entitled Technological Priorities of Independent Oil and Gas Producers (August, 1999). The findings suggest that operators are "specifically interested in technologies that will help them (1) identify unswept / behind pipe potential, (2) identify in-field development potential with geologic targeting, and (3) increase recovery with improved oil recovery methods, using realistic screening criteria and sound operating practices and guidelines."
Surface geochemical exploration methods address each of these issues. Surface exploration technology measures hydrocarbons seepage directly and is used to identify untapped reserves in frontier and producing areas. The use of surface geochemical methods to characterize reservoirs at depth is possible when using a high sample density combined with analog studies. Estimates of variables such as fluid type, reservoir lithology, and hydrocarbon gravity allow the explorationist to identify potential reservoir targets prior to drilling. Screening, or culling, prospects with surface geochemical methods demonstrates the proper use of surface exploration technology. Geochemical methods have been shown to dramatically decrease the risk of dry holes and, when integrated with traditional exploration methods, enhance any prospect over which a positive signature is obtained.
This brings me to the Quizlet survey I have been running asking "How successful have you been using surface geochemistry?" The results are 32% with no success, 36% with some success, and 32% successful. This is 68% with some success or better. Potter etal report at least a 55% success rate while reporting dry holes correctly 95% of the time. My experience in Ohio,as reported by a local independent, is around 62% correct predictions for dry and successful wells. I am sure others will report similar statistics. Being the case how can this integral part of any exploration program be overlooked and unused?
The above statments suggest that the technology that explorationists are requesting in the PTTC report summary is already available in the form of surface geochemical exploration.