Geochemical Characteristics of Source Rocks and Crude Oils from the Khuzestan Province in Southwest Iran

H. Alimi¹

Abstract

Khuzestan Province located in Southwest of Iran constitutes one of the most prolific hydrocarbon (oil and gas) producing habitats. A total of sixty eight (68) potential source rocks and reservoir rocks from the Gachsaran, Asmari, Pabdeh, Gurpi , Iilam, Kazhdomi , Gadvan , Fahlian, Garau, and Sargelu Formations (Miocene to Middle Jurassic), as well as twenty crude oils from different wells/oil fields but similar reservoir have been investigated, using geochemical methods. The level of thermal maturation and hydrocarbon source potential of the selected source rocks have been evaluated using pyrolysis instrument (RE-II). Crude oils and source rock bitumens have been further investigated using their biomarker, and isotpic compositions.TOC and RE-pyrolysis and other geochemical results obtained indicate that the marl and shale lithologies of the Pubdeh, Gurpi, Kazhdomi, Garau, and Sargelu Formations are thermally mature, organically rich, and showing favourable characteristics of high potential source rocks. Results suggest that the Kazhdomi, Pubdeh and Sargelu source rocks have the highest original hydrocarbon generating potential.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90188 ©GEO-2014, 11th Middle East Geosciences Conference and Exhibition, 10-12 March 2014, Manama, Bahrain