--> Using Neo-tectonic and Subsurface Data to Guide the Search for Large Oil Fields: Examples from Colombia, Ecuador and Peru
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International Conference & Exhibition

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Using Neo-tectonic and Subsurface Previous HitDataNext Hit to Guide the Search for Large Oil Fields: Previous HitExamplesNext Hit from Colombia, Ecuador and Peru

Abstract

We present new structural transects and new neo-tectonic interpretations from Colombia, Ecuador and Peru, that we utilize to delineate structural domains, which help to define zones with higher or lower probability for large hydrocarbon accumulations. Neo-tectonics can destroy or help preserve giant oil accumulations. They have a direct impact on the structural timing, charge access, migration routes, trap integrity and breaching. For that reason it is critical to thoroughly examine their effects in oil exploration projects. Shallow reflectors in onshore seismic are often absent in the Previous HitdataNext Hit, very noisy or poorly processed, so seismic Previous HitdataNext Hit alone often is not good enough to fully understand the shallow section. Surface geology, remote sensing and detailed topography analysis are helpful tools in overcoming these seismic Previous HitdataNext Hit limitations. We present a new transect showing the context of the giant Orito Previous HitfieldNext Hit, the largest producing Previous HitfieldNext Hit in the Putumayo Basin. Combining the structural cross-section with neotectonic Previous HitdataNext Hit allows us to correlate subsurface faults with active fault scarps at the surface, to recognize active migration pathways. It also helps to explain oil charge into Tertiary Pepino Formation that is commonly not economically producible. Integration of structural cross-sections with topographic Previous HitdataNext Hit and age dating of modern fluvial terraces in the Pastaza megafan, Oriente Basin, enables us to understand present-day tectonics and the role of active faults in oil Previous HitfieldNext Hit preservation. Geomorphic evidences of active deformation can be used to identify new prospects below this modern megafan. A structural section from the underexplored central Marañon Basin was integrated with surface geology and neotectonic Previous HitdataNext Hit. Tilted fluvial terraces near the mountain front and drainage pattern anomalies around the very large Loreto Dome are indicative of modern tectonic movements. Previous HitDataNext Hit integration allows us to differentiate between presently active and non-active structures and, hence, to better understand breaching risks. Based on subsurface information and integration with neotectonic Previous HitdataNext Hit, a regional map of the study area shows the different structural domains and how the Previous HitdataNext Hit integration helps delineating prospective from less prospective trends. Thorough integration of neotectonic with subsurface Previous HitdataNext Hit should be utilized in petroleum exploration. These methodologies are even more powerful when combined with surface geochemical Previous HitdataTop and oil seep distribution.