Reservoir Characterization & Geological Modeling

A collection of essential terms and definitions related to reservoir characterization and geological modeling, focusing on seals, their qualities, mechanisms, and their roles in hydrocarbon accumulation.

Seal Quality

The effectiveness of a rock in preventing the migration of hydrocarbons.

Reservoir Compartmentalization

The segregation of a petroleum accumulation into individual fluid/pressure compartments.

Static Seals

Completely sealed boundaries capable of withholding petroleum columns over geological time.

Dynamic Seals

Low permeability flow baffles that significantly reduce crossflow of petroleum.

Capillary Seal

A barrier that leaks when the buoyancy force exceeds capillary entry pressure.

Anticline Structure

A geological fold that can trap hydrocarbons effectively over and laterally.

Stratigraphic Trap

A trap formed by changes in rock type or porosity that provides lateral seals.

Hydrodynamic Trap

Occurs when hydrocarbons migrate against downward water flow in an aquifer.

Seal Leakage Mechanisms

Multiple ways seals can fail or allow hydrocarbons to escape.

Leakage Pressure

The pressure at which hydrocarbons leak through seals.

Fault-Rock Seal

A seal that is dominated by the properties of a fault zone.

Buoyancy Pressure

The force that causes lighter hydrocarbons to rise through the rocks.

Differential Leakage

The variation in leakage rates of oil and gas due to pressure and density differences.

Sealing Functions

The roles of seals in trap classification and reservoir management.

Max Oil Column Height

The maximum height that oil can attain in a typical reservoir.

Hydraulic Failure

A mechanism that can cause loss of hydrocarbons from the reservoir.