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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

AAPG Bulletin

Abstract


Volume: 64 (1980)

Issue: 9. (September)

First Page: 1558

Last Page: 1559

Title: Pressure, Temperature, Salinity, Lithology, and Structure in Hydrocarbon Accumulation in Constance Bayou, Deep Lake, and Southeast Little Pecan Lake Fields, Cameron Parish, Louisiana: ABSTRACT

Author(s): Frank W. Harrison, III

Article Type: Meeting abstract

Abstract:

Pressure, temperature, salinity, lithology, and structural studies indicate that hydrocarbons in Deep Lake, Constance Bayou, and Little Pecan Lake fields were generated in the shale beds of the hard geopressured zone and migrated upward along major growth faults. The hydrocarbons were originally dissolved in hot fresh pore water and came out of solution in the overlying low temperature and pressure zones, accumulating in the sand beds of the first structural traps encountered. By examining regional cross sections and anomaly maps, fluid escape routes taken by the hot pore water containing dissolved hydrocarbons can be identified. Areas below which a vertical flush of hot fresh pore

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water from the hard geopressured zone has occurred have three identifying characteristics: low fluid pressures, high formation-water salinity values, and residual high pressure areas. These areas are considered to be highly prospective places to search for hydrocarbon accumulations. In the study locality there are five areas below which a vertical flush has occurred from the hard geopressured zone and each area contains commercial accumulations of hydrocarbons.

Pressure, temperature, and salinity studies, when coupled with lithology and structure, add a new dimension to hydrocarbon exploration and should definitely be used in the search for new reserves of oil and gas.

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Copyright 1997 American Association of Petroleum Geologists