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What are the applications of sequence stratigraphy in hydrocarbon exploration?

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Sequence stratigraphy is a branch of geology that studies the spatial and temporal relationships of sedimentary deposits in relation to changes in sea level, tectonics, and climate. It can help you understand the evolution of sedimentary basins, the distribution of facies and reservoir quality, and the identification of stratigraphic traps and seals. In this article, you will learn about the applications of sequence stratigraphy in hydrocarbon exploration and how it can improve your chances of finding and developing oil and gas resources.

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Gilbert Ansah

Geologist || HSE professional
Amna Hussein

Geologist

1 Basic concepts

Sequence stratigraphy is based on the concept of sequences, which are packages of sedimentary rocks bounded by unconformities or their correlative conformities. Unconformities are surfaces that represent gaps in the geological record due to erosion or non-deposition, while correlative conformities are surfaces that mark the transition from one depositional environment to another. Sequences can be subdivided into systems tracts, which are smaller units that reflect the relative position of sea level and the sediment supply. Systems tracts can be classified into lowstand, transgressive, highstand, and falling stage, depending on whether sea level is falling, rising, or stable.

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Amna Hussein

Geologist
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As a specialized science within the realm of geology, sequence stratigraphy strives to decipher and provide an interpretation of the history of our planet through the careful examination and categorization of sedimentary deposits on a host of scales. This is accomplished by segregating the deposits into distinct tranches that are partitioned by unconformities. This approach aims to form a clear picture of the Earth's archaeological story.

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2 Sequence stratigraphic models

Sequence stratigraphic models are frameworks that describe the geometry, architecture, and facies of sequences and systems tracts in different types of basins. They can help you predict the location, size, and quality of potential hydrocarbon reservoirs and seals. For example, a lowstand systems tract may contain coarse-grained, high-energy deposits that form good reservoirs, while a transgressive systems tract may contain fine-grained, low-energy deposits that form good seals. Sequence stratigraphic models can be based on different criteria, such as the frequency and amplitude of sea level changes, the tectonic setting and subsidence rate of the basin, and the climatic and sedimentary conditions.

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3 Sequence stratigraphic analysis

Sequence stratigraphic analysis is the process of applying sequence stratigraphic concepts and models to real data from a specific basin or region. It involves the identification and correlation of sequences and systems tracts using various sources of information, such as seismic data, well logs, core samples, biostratigraphy, and geochemistry. Sequence stratigraphic analysis can help you map the spatial and temporal distribution of facies and reservoir quality, identify the main controls on sedimentation and basin evolution, and recognize the key stratigraphic surfaces and boundaries that define the potential hydrocarbon traps and seals.

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4 Sequence stratigraphic interpretation

Sequence stratigraphic interpretation is the process of integrating sequence stratigraphic analysis with other geological and geophysical data to generate a comprehensive and coherent understanding of the basin history and hydrocarbon potential. It involves the evaluation and validation of sequence stratigraphic models and hypotheses using independent evidence, such as structural geology, geostatistics, geochemistry, and geomechanics. Sequence stratigraphic interpretation can help you refine your exploration strategy and optimize your drilling and production decisions, as well as reduce your uncertainty and risk.

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Amna Hussein

Geologist
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The core technique implemented in sequence stratigraphy involves the detailed analysis of strata, which is realized through the pinpointed identification of varying surfaces that are predicated to symbolize representative timelines. Prime examples being subaerial unconformities and surfaces signifying maximum flooding. This invariably places stratigraphy within the concept of a chronological framework, thereby prompting and enabling a superior understanding of the evolutionary trajectory of the Earth's surface in specific regions dated back to ancient times.

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5 Sequence stratigraphic challenges

Sequence stratigraphy is not a flawless or universal method. It faces several challenges and limitations that you need to be aware of and overcome. Some of these challenges are related to the quality and availability of data, such as the resolution and accuracy of seismic data, the coverage and reliability of well logs, and the representativeness and preservation of core samples. Other challenges are related to the complexity and variability of natural systems, such as the influence of local factors, the heterogeneity and diagenesis of sedimentary rocks, and the multiplicity and ambiguity of sequence stratigraphic criteria and models.

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6 Sequence stratigraphic benefits

Despite its challenges and limitations, sequence stratigraphy offers many benefits and advantages for hydrocarbon exploration. It provides a consistent and systematic framework for analyzing and interpreting sedimentary basins, as well as a common language and terminology for communication and collaboration among geoscientists. It enhances your ability to reconstruct the depositional history and paleogeography of a basin, as well as to predict the occurrence and quality of hydrocarbon reservoirs and seals. It also enables you to compare and correlate different basins and regions, as well as to identify and exploit new opportunities and trends.

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Amna Hussein

Geologist
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Sequence stratigraphy positions itself as an informative alternate to a strategy solely focused on lithostratigraphy, reduxes the examination method purely to the rudimentary basic examination of the compositional resemblance found in the lithology of rock formations, with minimal regard for their historical significance.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Gilbert Ansah

Geologist || HSE professional
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There is no significant disagreement with the information provided. However, it's worth mentioning that the complexity and interpretation of sequence stratigraphy can vary depending on the geological context, limiting generalization across all scenarios. Overall, sequence stratigraphy provides a powerful framework for understanding the geological history, facies distribution, and reservoir potential. Its application in real-life scenarios allows geologists to make informed decisions during hydrocarbon exploration, optimizing resource allocation and increasing the chances of successful outcomes.

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Amna Hussein

Geologist
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One of the unique considerations in sequence stratigraphy encompasses the study of unconformities. Unconformities are revered for their abilities to contribute greatly to the comprehension of geological history due to their representation as erosional surfaces. Manifestly, these unconformities personify indicating disruptions in historical timelines. On the flipside, inside a sequence, specifics of geological history should have relative consistency as a complete and undisrupted archival record, showcasing a strong genetic liaison and association

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What are the applications of sequence stratigraphy in hydrocarbon exploration?

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1 Basic concepts

2 Sequence stratigraphic models

3 Sequence stratigraphic analysis

4 Sequence stratigraphic interpretation

5 Sequence stratigraphic challenges

6 Sequence stratigraphic benefits

7 Here’s what else to consider

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