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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

GCAGS Transactions

Abstract


Gulf Coast Association of Geological Societies Transactions
Vol. 44 (1994), Pages 755-755

Abstract: Scanning Electron Microscope Examination of Shale in Core from the Frio Formation, Brazoria County, Texas

P. D. Alley-McReynolds

ABSTRACT

Scanning electron microscope (SEM) examination of additional core from shallower geopressured and non-geopressured Frio Formation wells in Brazoria County shows fracture patterns and clay textures similar to those in the Skrabanek 1 well reported earlier. The additional wells examined by SEM are 1-B Minnie Mettler, 2,847 to 3,254 m; Pleasant Bayou 1, 3,532 to 4,750 m; and Phillips Petroleum JJ 1, 4,919 to 5,128 m. We noted that shales occurring from 2,744 to 5,488 m have similar grain orientation and fracture patterns. Pleasant Bayou 1 core is strikingly similar to Skrabanek 1 core, having coarse flakes and grains of quartz and feldspar dispersed throughout. Phillips Petroleum JJ 1 core is more uniform in appearance, lacking distinct clay flakes and scattered grains. Core from 1-B Minnie Mettler is similar in appearance to Phillips Petroleum JJ 1 core, having a uniform distribution of components; however, the clay flakes are less densely packed. Fractures are present in all three wells. Abundant horizontal and vertical fractures at varying depths could act as avenues of fluid flow within geopressured shales.

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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND ASSOCIATED FOOTNOTES

Department of Geosciences, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204

Copyright © 1999 by The Gulf Coast Association of Geological Societies