Journal of Petroleum Geology, Vol. 11, No.4, pp. 389-402, 1988

©Copyright 2000 Scientific Press, Ltd.

OIL GENERATION AND MIGRATION WITHIN MARINE CARBONATE SEQUENCES - A REVIEW

J. Ferguson*

*Dept. of Geology, Imperial College, London SW72BP.

Abstract

Recent literature on carbonate source rocks is reviewed, particular importance being attached to those papers which give details of lithology and depositional environment, as well as details relating to the organic matter in the rock. It is demonstrated that depositional and environmental criteria which have been applied to other source rocks are equally valid for carbonates. Evidence is presented which upholds the view that clay mineral catalysis is minimal in these rocks. Another feature which is emphasised is that of "self-sourcing". It is suggested that the evidence presented in the papers reviewed calls for the recognition of two modes of "self-sourcing" i.e. the oil or gas can be truly indigenous and formed where it is found, or it can have migrated within the carbonate complex. Supporting evidence from experimental work, both published and unpublished, is presented to support the main conclusions of the paper.