Integrated Interpretation of Eocene-Palaeocene Rocks in Potwar Basin, Pakistan: Implications for Petroleum Generation

Abstract

This study demonstrates how an integrated geochemical and petrophysical analysis can be used to evaluate the petroleum generation potential of source and reservoir rocks. The Eocene and Palaeocene sequences of the Potwar Basin, located in the upper Indus Basin of Pakistan, were analyzed. Well logs and Schlumberger log interpretation charts were used for the petrophysical analysis of the Chorgali Formation's reservoir potential. Geochemical methods were applied to 34 well-cutting Sakesar and Patala formations samples. Results from Vitrinite Reflectance (VR) (%Ro) and Tmax data suggest that both formations have reached the peak of their oil generation window. The Sakesar Formation has a mean TOC of 1.88 wt. % and HI values of 375 mg HC/g TOC. The Patala Formation has a mean TOC of 3.33 wt.% in well A and HI values ranging from 2.4 to 369 mg HC/g TOC in well B, with a mean TOC of 3.52 wt%. Both formations have mixed Type II/III kerogen. The findings indicate that both the Sakesar and Patala formations possess good oil/gas-generation potential and may act as source rocks in the Potwar Basin. Petrophysical analysis of the Chorgali Formation shows an average porosity of 10.32%, water saturation of 36.14%, and hydrocarbon saturation of 63.85%. This indicates that the Chorgali Formation has an average to good reservoir potential. The research findings will aid exploration and production companies in the Fimkassar Oilfield.