Geology, geography and global energy

Scientific and Technical Journal

Volga regions deposits: its special geological features and hydrocarbon extraction potential

2013. №1, pp. 97-106

Makhonin Mikhail V. - Head of the Laboratory of planning and monitoring, LLC «LUKOIL-INGINIRING» «VOLGOGRADNIPIMORNEFT», 12 Guzhvin ave, Astrakhan, Russian Federation, 414001, mmakhonin@lukoilvmn.ru

Medvedev Petr V. - Head of the Laboratory of forecasting oil and gas, LLC «LUKOIL-INGINIRING» «VOLGOGRADNIPIMORNEFT», 12 Guzhvin ave, Astrakhan, Russian Federation, 414001, pmedvedev@lukoilvmn.ru

Titov Dmitriy K. - Student, Astrakhan State University, 20a Tatishchev st., Astrakhan, Russian Federation, 414056, geologi2007@yandex.ru

The article presents the results of structural, paleo-structural and lithofacial analyses, indicating that prospective hydrocarbon (oil and gas) deposits are located in middle- and upper-Frasnian stage layers in the Volga region (near Volgograd). Most of the unexplored resources in the Lower Volga oil and gas region (336.9 million tones, 51.5 %) are situated within Devonian carbonates. At this stage, the critique describes a statistical analysis that shows there is a chance of discovering at least 4-5 fields with recoverable reserves (the equivalent of 10–15 million tons of oil) in Devonian carbonates. Consequently, experts feel it may be worth undertaking further searches for oil and gas fields in Devonian carbonate sediments. The document indicates that structural, paleo-structural and lithofacial analyses of the Lower Volga region took place with the aim of defining zones and intervals favorable for generation of organogenic structures in middle- and upper-Frasnian layers. The results of this work, the commentary says, have clarified the features of the geological structure, tectonic evolution and sedimentary conditions of the potential Frasnian deposits in the vicinity of Volgograd. Moreover, they have identified the spatial and genetic relationship of organogenic structures (based on different morphological and genetic types) with specific tectonic elements. The latter, the study relates, are found in paleobasin layers, have tectonic evolution characteristics, and feature sedimentary-type facies and paleo-geographic environments. The blueprint has, in conclusion, used analytic results to define the zones that are favorable for generation of different types of organogenic structures and their related hydrocarbon traps.

Key words: structural analysis,hydrocarbon (oil and gas) prospects,middle- and upper-Frasnian deposits,Devonian carbonates

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