Hydrocarbon Prospectivity Assessment of the Ultra Deep Reservoirs of Kuwait

Abstract Triassic-Paleozoic reservoirs hydrocarbon potential is proven in the Arabian plate, however these reservoirs in The State of Kuwait exist at greater depths and this combined with the related geological complexities pose severe challenges for exploration and development. An attempt to identify and resolve these challenges is necessary to provide an extensive evaluation of these deeper reservoirs and produce viable prospects for exploration. Limited number of wells targeting Triassic-Paleozoic reservoirs has led to challenges in understanding these deep reservoirs and their entrapments. Triassic-Paleozoic sequences in the seismic are affected with poor resolution, multiples and noise. The less penetration of energy has caused reduced signal to noise ratio affecting the proper imaging of primary events corresponding to Formation boundaries. The regional analogues indicate the occurrence of a complex geology in Triassic-Paleozoic sequences. A recent full azimuth 3D depth domain reprocessed seismic data over part of The State of Kuwait has brought out enhanced image of deeper sections. Seismic reservoir characterization utilizing simultaneous inversion, seismic attributes, spectral decomposition, and acoustic impedance in this newly reprocessed 3D seismic data volume deciphered reservoir properties in addition to better structural and stratigraphic mapping. Assessment of the basement architecture and the tectono-stratigraphy, along with the development of the paleo depositional environment and analysis of the regional context of the Triassic-Paleozoic on the Arabian Plate will identify potential reservoir strata and entrapments in Kuwait. The existence of intra-basinal highs with the possibility of thick Paleozoic source rock deposition in the adjacent basinal lows can form the potential locales for exploration. Preliminary structural analysis indicates these are older structures controlled by basement tectonics. Furthermore, it is understood that late Jurassic time is the peak migration period for deeper hydrocarbon sources and any structuration that predates this period can provide the necessary entrapment in these structures. The recent 3D seismic reprocessing has produced a better image in the Triassic-Paleozoic in this area of The State of Kuwait. The analysis of Gravity-Magnetic data to implement a deep structural model along with regional evaluation of tectono-stratigraphy and paleoenvironments supported the structural and stratigraphic interpretations in the Triassic-Paleozoic over this 3D seismic volume. The probability of adequate source rock and petroleum system timing was established and implemented in these geological models. Seismic reservoir characterization has additionally identified potential leads within these structural and stratigraphic traps. Successful exploration of the prospects identified will provide significant impetus for future exploration and development. With the advent of modern technologies and innovative exploration practices along with the regional understanding, challenges associated with the Triassic-Paleozoic in Kuwait are being addressed and resolved leading to a more refined subsurface model.