Regional settings and characteristics of an Oxfordian hot shale

Abstract

Development of predictive geological rules is vital for successful exploration and development. The “sweet spotting” concept is widely used to predict areas with better-than-average porosity and permeability. However the definition of sweet spots in unconventional plays is still an emerging concept. Empirical observations from a decade of unconventional development in North America suggest better-than-average production is governed by a combination of favorable matrix permeability, presence of natural fractures and source-rock richness and maturity.