Exploration Application of Paleogeographic Reconstruction and Paleoclimatic Modeling Maps

GOLONKA, JAN, Mobil, Dallas, TX

We have observed a strong correlation between the occurrence of giant oil and gas fields and the predicted location of source rocks based on modeling of ancient upwelling zones during Permian-Cretaceous (280-65 Ma). This correlation suggests that paleogeographic and Paleoclimatic modeling techniques can help evaluate the risk for source rocks in frontier exploration plays.

The paleogeographic and paleoclimatic maps were generated using software developed by the University of Texas at Austin and the University of Chicago in cooperation with Mobil. Global paleogeographic maps contain the positions of continental plates, elevated areas, landmasses, shallow- and deep-sea areas. The outlines of paleogeography are used as input for paleoclimatic modeling. Paleoclimatic maps depict climate information such as pressure systems, wind direction, humidity, and calculated positions of ancient upwelling zones-an indication of possible hydrocarbon source rock areas. Maps of climate-sensitive sediments show the location of rocks associated with upwelling.

Composite map interpretation indicates a strong relationship between upwelling patterns and the occurrence of giant oil and gas fields. The computer-predicted upwelling areas include major producing regions such as the Persian Gulf, Central Asia, Siberia Southeast Asia North Africa North Sea, U.S., and Mexico. The map interpretation, Integrated with traditional source rock prediction, Indicates new potential exploration regions. These Include the Canadian Artic, Greenland, Barents Sea Soviet Artic, South America, offshore Australia, and China.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91004 © 1991 AAPG Annual Convention Dallas, Texas, April 7-10, 1991 (2009)