Preliminary Paleogeographic Reconstruction of the Illinois Basin during Deposition of the Mississippian Aux Vases Formation: Implications for Hydrocarbon Recovery

COLE, ROBERT D., Illinois State Geological Survey, Champaign, IL

Extensive outcrop investigation and selective subsurface study allow definition of Illinois basin paleogeography during deposition of the Mississippian (Valmeyeran-Meramecian) Aux Vases Formation. The results incorporate an integrated approach utilizing field observations and petrographic analysis, wireline logs, subsurface maps, and cores. The Aux Vases Formation depositional system has been determined to be composed of subtidal to intertidal facies. Depositional facies in outcrop are based on rock body geometries, sedimentary structure assemblages, paleocurrent analysis, paleontology of body and trace fossils, facies relationships, and petrography. Depositional facies determined from subsurface data are based on correlation of lithologic interpretations from wireline logs, sand body geometries from isopach maps, and petrography.

Specific depositional facies observed in outcrop and core and inferred from wireline logs and isopach maps are offshore bars and tidal channel complexes, extensive subtidal to lower intertidal, ripple-laminated sheet sandstones, and intertidal flaser-bedded shale and laminated, fine-grained quartzose sandstone. Carbonate facies occur as subtidal grainstones at or near the base of a sequence, or as high energy deposits which have been tidally reworked. This depositional system produces reservoir heterogeneities that complicate efficient hydrocarbon recovery.

This diverse facies architecture is modified by tectonic and diagenetic overprinting, further segregating potential producing zones. Exploration for these zones must utilize as many geologic and engineering aspects as possible. Techniques such as log and core analysis, petrographic analysis, isopach and interval isopach maps, seismic modeling and interpretation, regional geologic trends, history matching at the facies level, pressure tests, tracer surveys, and reservoir modeling will greatly aid the prediction of reservoir compartments. To significantly improve recovery efficiency, predictions regarding compartmentalization can be used prior to designing a drilling program, an infill drilling program, or an application of enhanced recovery techniques.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91004 © 1991 AAPG Annual Convention Dallas, Texas, April 7-10, 1991 (2009)