--> Abstract: Stratigraphic Dip Analysis – a Novel Application for Detailed Geological Modeling of Point Bars, and Predicting Bitumen Grade, McMurray Formation, Muskeg River Mine, Northeast Alberta, by Milovan Fustic; #90039 (2005)

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Stratigraphic Dip Analysis – a Novel Application for Detailed Geological Modeling of Point Bars, and Predicting Bitumen Grade, McMurray Formation, Muskeg River Mine, Northeast Alberta

Milovan Fustic
Albian Sands Energy Inc. and Univeristy of Calgary, Calgary, AB

At the Muskeg River Mine, bitumen is hosted in the clastic sediments of the Cretaceous McMurray Formation. The McMurray Formation is informally divided into members representing fluvial, estuarine and marine environments. Bitumen grade is quite consistent within the fluvial and open estuary units (12-15%), whereas Tidally Influenced Estuarine Channel Complex (ECC) sediments demonstrate great lateral and vertical grade variability (0-15%). In the ECC bitumen grade is controlled by the very complex geometry of the sedimentary bodies (point bars (PB), abandoned channels (AC), tidal flats (TF)), and by highly variable properties within individual bodies. Traditionally, interpretation of sedimentary bodies was done in cross-section view by integrating core, geophysical logs (particularly dipmeter), and lab data (oil, water, and solids by weight). However, attempts to make a 3D model of the geometry of these sedimentary bodies by correlating them between sections (even when sections are 100 meters apart) are proved difficult. Stratigraphic Dip Analysis provides a quick and reliable determination of the extent and dimensions of PB, AC, and TF. The first step involves juxtaposing azimuth maps (rose diagrams) over horizon slice facies maps for selected depth intervals to identify major channel trends. In the second step, comparison of dips, lithology, and sedimentary structures allows a reliable recognition and delineation of major point bars and abandoned channels. Thirdly, comparison of dip trends with available bitumen grades confirms that bitumen grade decreases laterally with maturity of point bars.

The method is applicable for recognition of paleochannel trends, delineation of major point bars and abandoned channels, and as a predictive tool for bitumen saturation between wells and in areas with little drilling. It is applicable for mine planning, selecting zones for positioning well pairs in SAGD operations, and for selecting infill drilling locations.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90039©2005 AAPG Calgary, Alberta, June 16-19, 2005