Prediction of the maximum depth of deep to ultra-deep resources based on the theory of whole petroleum system

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1672-7703.2025.03.009

Abstract

Abstract: The deep to ultra-deep formations have abundant resources, which is currently a key field for petroleum exploration and research both domestically and internationally. The study on the maximum depth of oil and gas reservoirs has important practical significance for assessing deep oil and gas resources, deploying ultra-deep wells, and understanding exploration risks. Based on the theory of whole petroleum system (WPS), the method and process have been proposed to quantitatively predict the maximum depth of conventional, tight, and shale oil and gas reservoirs in petroliferous basins. Some cases of discovered oil and gas reservoirs and well drilling data have been studied to predict the maximum depth of oil and gas reservoirs in petroliferous basins such as Tarim, Junggar, Sichuan, Ordos, Songliao, and Bohai Bay in China. The study results show that the maximum depths of conventional, tight, and shale oil and gas reservoirs in the six major petroliferous basins are usually in the range of 800–4400 m, 5050–7990 m, and 5400–9300 m, which increase with decreasing geothermal gradient, better organic matter types, and higher oil wet property of the reservoir. With advancements in drilling technology and predictive capabilities, the scope of discovering oil and gas resources will continue to expand. In addition, the maximum depth of oil and gas reservoirs is influenced by tectonic movements in the context of in-situ geological conditions. Finally, based on the actual drilling results of shallow–medium–deep oil and gas in Tarim Basin, the predicted maximum depths of ultra-deep carbonate oil and gas reservoirs in the Cambrian–Ordovician exceed (9500±50) m
and (10500±100) m, respectively.

Key words: natural resources, fossil energy, whole petroleum system, deep to ultra-deep formations, lower depth limit for hydrocarbon accumulation, lower depth limit for petroleum exploration, oil and gas resources, conventional and unconventional oil and gas

CLC Number:

TE112

Pang Xiongqi, Li Caijun, Jia Chengzao, Chen Yuxuan, Li Maowen, Jiang Lin, Xiao Huiyi, Jiang Fujie, Cao Peng, Chen Dongxia, Xu Zhi, Lin Huixi, Hu Tao, Zheng Dingye, Wang Lei. Prediction of the maximum depth of deep to ultra-deep resources based on the theory of whole petroleum system[J]. China Petroleum Exploration, 2025, 30(3): 126-139.

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