In the heart of China’s largest continental multi-energy mineral basin, the Ordos Basin, a groundbreaking study is shedding new light on the evaluation of reservoir environments, with significant implications for the oil and gas industry. Led by Zhi-bo Zhang from the School of Resources and Geosciences at China University of Mining and Technology, the research focuses on the chemical properties of reservoir water in the Chang 6 reservoir of Ansai Oilfield, offering insights that could reshape how we predict and assess oil-bearing reservoirs.
The study, published in *Dizhi Kexue* (China Geology), analyzed water samples from 30 wells, revealing that the Chang 6 reservoir water is predominantly of the calcium-chloride type, with a sodium chloride coefficient generally below 0.5. “The chemical properties of reservoir water are crucial for reservoir evaluation and serve as significant indicators of the sealing of reservoir oil and gas resources,” Zhang explains. This finding is not just a scientific curiosity; it’s a game-changer for the energy sector.
The research highlights that the chloride magnesium coefficients range from 33.7 to 925.5, with most values exceeding 200. The desulfurization coefficients vary from 0.21 to 13.4, averaging 2.227, while the carbonate balance coefficients are mainly below 0.01, averaging 0.008. The calcium and magnesium coefficients range between 0.08 and 0.003, with an average of 0.01. These chemical signatures paint a picture of a reservoir with excellent sealing properties and favorable conditions for oil and gas preservation.
“The results indicate that the Chang 6 reservoir in Ansai Oilfield is a promising block for oil and gas storage,” Zhang states. This assessment is backed by the high pore connectivity observed in the reservoir, suggesting that it could be a lucrative target for future exploration and extraction activities.
The commercial impacts of this research are substantial. By understanding the chemical properties of reservoir water, energy companies can make more informed decisions about where to invest their resources. The study provides a robust framework for evaluating the potential of oil-bearing reservoirs, potentially leading to more efficient and cost-effective exploration strategies.
Moreover, the findings could influence the development of new technologies and methodologies for reservoir evaluation. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the ability to accurately predict the sealing and preservation conditions of reservoirs will be crucial for maintaining a competitive edge.
This research is a testament to the power of scientific inquiry in driving industrial progress. By delving into the chemical properties of reservoir water, Zhang and his team have opened up new avenues for exploration and extraction in one of China’s most significant energy basins. As the energy sector looks to the future, the insights gained from this study will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of oil and gas exploration strategies.