Migration of gas and oil out of source rocks is a process attached with a high degree of uncertainty. Based on the recent discovery by Thyberg et al (2009) “From mud to shale: rock stiffening by micro-quartz cementation” we will investigate if petroleum formed within the shale may use the 3D silica network formed during cementation as “migration avenues”. We will also evaluate cap rock properties in relation to shale type and existence of silica networks. Stiffening of shales through formation of silica networks is followed by higher interval velocities. It would be of great industry interest if interval velocity in shales could be linked to expulsion of petroleum and/or cap rock properties.
The cap rock properties of shales will also be investigated and linked to shale type potentially making prediction of sealing capacity possible.
Shale gas production (stimulation) linked to shale properties (stiffness and quartz content) and prediction of their whereabouts is also a possible spin-off of industry interest from this project.
About the project
This project is carried out in close cooperation with ConocoPhillips with Sverre E. Ohm as contact person and researcher. The project is associated with the project Barents Sea Rock Properties (BarRock).
One researcher (20%) is financed by ConocoPhillips and three PhD students (financed by other sources linked to the BarRock project) as well as master students.
Period: 2010-06 to 2013-06