Publications

Assessment of the gas potential in an exploration area requires not only a correct estimate of gas generated, but also working knowledge of the gas lost in the system. We now have reliable techniques for estimating the gas generation through pyrolysis experiments, but there is not yet a consensus as to how to estimate gas losses from a petroleum system. A recently completed study has permitted the development of an evolving geochemical model for the quantification of gas available for entrapment. This model extends beyond most conventional models that emphasize the volume of gas generated. This model builds upon these more conventional models by including estimates of the quantity of hydrocarbons lost to gas "sinks" in the source and carrier systems. These "sinks" include the gas retained within the source, that which is lost to solution in the carrier and reservoir systems, and diffusive losses.