--> Abstract: Angola Stratigraphic Initiative: Stratigraphic Integration of Oligocene/Miocene Reservoirs (Malembo Formation) in the Lower Congo Basin, by Timothy R. Fahrer, Rick Beaubouef, Michael L. Porter, and Donald Kim Sickafoose; #90072 (2007)

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Angola Stratigraphic Initiative: Stratigraphic Integration of Oligocene/Miocene Reservoirs (Malembo Formation) in the Lower Congo Basin

Timothy R. Fahrer1, Rick Beaubouef2, Michael L. Porter3, and Donald Kim Sickafoose1
1ExxonMobil Exploration, Houston, TX
2ExxonMobil Development Company, Houston, TX
3ExxonMobil Production Company, Houston, TX

The Angola Stratigraphic Initiative was formed in order to establish a uniform system for stratigraphic nomenclature throughout the Lower Congo Basin for Oligocene/Miocene reservoirs. Establishing the nomenclature is the first step toward a more comprehensive understanding of the stratigraphic component of the hydrocarbon systems. The new stratigraphic nomenclature is based upon globally-recognized European Stage Names (SEPM 60) and contains a numbering system as part of the name that shows genetic relationships among named reservoir bodies.
The ExxonMobil-operated Block 15 was chosen as the starting point due to the presence of 30 wells with biostratigraphic age control and the availability of high resolution 3D seismic data over the core development areas, enabling detailed correlation of time significant surfaces between wells and beyond. Following the establishment of the stratigraphic framework in Block 15, interpretation will be extended into other nearby Angola Blocks.
This Initiative enhances the genetic understanding of the hydrocarbon system that can positively affect all phases of business (Exploration, Development and Production). Additionally, if this framework is extended throughout the Lower Congo Basin it will increase the regional understanding of Oligocene/Miocene depositional history. A consistent naming convention will be used to create databases (populated with reliable components) that will provide analog data to assess future drill-well locations not only in this basin, but also other applicable deep-water basins. Additionally, this initiative may help identify unpenetrated reservoirs or future near-field potential. This initiative sets an industry standard in building a regionally-consistent reservoir naming convention for communication with government agencies and Co-Ventures.

 

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90072 © 2007 AAPG and AAPG European Region Conference, Athens, Greece