DETERMINATION OF SOME PETROPHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF RESERVIOR ROCK: CASE STUDY OF THE LOWER SHIRE BASIN
Abstract
The petrophysical calculations are crucial step in determination of properties of reservoir rock since it helps in petroleum exploration. It facilitates key decision on whether further stages of exploration can be carried out. This paper has described the determination of petrophysical properties of reservoir rock in Malawi, which was carried out on the block six of the hydrocarbon potential areas, which is lower shire basin specifically in Chiromo area. Therefore, enhancing our knowledge of reservoir rock characteristics and their role in hydrocarbon storage and flow dynamics is vital for informing exploration strategies and maximizing the potential of Block 6 in the Lower Shire Basin. The study aims at determining the porosity and permeability of reservoir rocks in the Lower Shire Basin, to understand their potential for hydrocarbon accumulation, by evaluating petrophysical properties, including, porosity, and permeability, and determining the fluid saturated in the reservoir rock. The methods used to include, fluid saturation for porosity determination, gas permeameter for permeability determination and dean-stark method for fluid saturation determination, and literature review provide more of the lithology of the area. It is discovered that Petrophysical properties, which include porosity, permeability, fluid saturation, and lithology, provide essential insights into how hydrocarbons are stored, transmitted, and produced within geological formations. Accurate assessment of these properties is fundamental for making informed decisions regarding exploration, drilling, and production strategies. The results of the study show the variations in porosity and permeability across different rock types in the Lower Shire Basin, and the fluid presence in the reservoir rock. The findings of this research contribute to the broader understanding of sedimentary basins in Malawi, and ultimately provides essential data to guide future research and resource exploitation endeavours in the region.
Research summary
This paper has described the determination of petrophysical properties of reservoir rock in Malawi, which was carried out on the block six of the hydrocarbon potential areas, which is lower shire basin specifically in Chiromo area. Therefore, enhancing our knowledge of reservoir rock characteristics and their role in hydrocarbon storage and flow dynamics is vital for informing exploration strategies and maximizing the potential of Block 6 in the Lower Shire Basin. The study aims at determining the porosity and permeability of reservoir rocks in the Lower Shire Basin, to understand their potential for hydrocarbon accumulation, by evaluating petrophysical properties, including, porosity, and permeability, and determining the fluid saturated in the reservoir rock. The methods used to include, fluid saturation for porosity determination, gas permeameter for permeability determination and dean-stark method for fluid saturation determination, and literature review provide more of the lithology of the area.