Remote Hydrocarbon Detection Using Hyperspectral and Potential Field Data in the Neuquén Basin, Argentina

High-resolution spectral and spatial hyperspectral data combine with magnetic and gravity surveys were acquired and used for the identification of lithologic units, stratigraphic and structural details, and organic compounds in the western part of the Neuquén basin, Argentina to generate an oil exploration probability map.

Continental and marine sequences related to the hydrocarbon-producing units were identified and mapped in the fold and thrust belt and then associated with subsurface features. Organic compounds associated with reservoired hydrocarbons were recognized at; or near the surface. Direct seepage or indirect detection of organic compounds; and their associated mineral alterations were the primary means of confirming an active, or once active, petroleum system.

Hyperspectral data was acquired over the area at 8,000 ft. above ground level (AGL) in conjunction with 11,000 ft. AGL gravity and magnetic survey. The hyperspectral sensor collected day-time and night-time data in 616 bands spanning the visible, near infrared, shortwave-infrared and thermal infrared portions of the electromagnetic spectrum with a 3 m ground resolution. Field spectral signatures of known targets were taken with an ASD spectroradiometer to create a spectral library of mineral, rock types and hydrocarbon seeps. The spectral signatures from the airborne hyperspectral data and the spectral library were used as input to numerical classification techniques used to generate a hyperspectral geological map.

Magnetic and gravity surveys were used to map regional structure and stratigraphy and the interpretation were later correlated with the hyperspectral map. The resulting information was combined with limited existing seismic and well data to better define the presence of active petroleum system for source rocks in the Agrio, Vaca Muerta and Los Molles Fms. A hydrocarbon probability map was generated by statistically merging the datasets in a 3-D model. This was used to identify and high-grade potential shale-oil and shale-gas plays as well as prospects in traditional plays in the study area.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90142 © 2012 AAPG Annual Convention and Exhibition, April 22-25, 2012, Long Beach, California