Application of palynology and micropalaeontology in hydrocarbon exploration

摘要

Palynology and micropalaeontology have developed into multifaceted disciplines with new applications in oil industry. These techniques provide precise age of rock samples derived from hydrocarbon exploration and development drillings, as well as from outcrops. The microfossils are also used for determining hiatusus/unconformities, stratigraphic correlation, interpretation of depositional environment, reconstruction of palaeogeography, and recognition of source rocks. The methods involve the microscopic analysis of palynomorphs, organic remains, foraminifera, calcareous nannoplankton, ostracoda, etc. Palynology is often used in conjunction with the analysis of calcareous nannoplankton and foraminifera. The value of micropalaeontological and palynological analysis for resolving stratigraphic and palaeoenvironmental problems has increased multifold after the development of sequence stratigraphy in identifying source rock, oil or gas bearing strata and geometry of pay sands and other applications. The data derived from these microfossils are incorporated with other geological and geophysical evidences to assist in the exploration for hydrocarbons and in the more efficient utilization of existing hydrocarbon discoveries.