Exploration potential for stratigraphic traps in Field X, Malay Basin

Abstract

Interpretation and recognition of stratigraphic features using 3-D seismic data requires good understanding on structural geology, geophysics and stratigraphy. The objective was to re-evaluate the hydrocarbon potential in Field X, Malay Basin focusing on the Early to Middle Miocene succession. The field is located offshore about 200+ km northeast from the Kemaman supply base, Terengganu. Based on the generated time slice of the seismic attribute, several geomorphological features were observed including channel direction, type of channels, sinuosity, channel width, meandering wavelength, crevasse splay and point bar within Group F, H and I formation. The fluvial sandstone might be promising for stratigraphic hydrocarbon traps for Field X since this field is in low structural traps as confirmed by previous exploration. Furthermore, high resolution 3D seismic data assisted the author in diagnosing the depositional environment and predicting the channel pattern throughout the vertical seismic successions. The identification of reservoir potential was determined through several methods such as seismic interpretation, well log correlation, attribute analysis and spectral decomposition. Subtle feature in seismic slices became more visible through spectral decomposition. Finally, structural modeling aided the interpreter in the interpretation of the seismic section as well as reducing the geological uncertainty of the field.