Stratigraphic and Diagenetic Controls on Asl Reservoir in Downthrown Side, October Field, Gulf of Suez: Implications for Reservoir Quality

Abstract The Miocene ASL Member in the Gulf of Suez is an important hydrocarbon reservoir. This investigation focused on the sedimentological, diagenetic, and petrophysical properties to elucidate variations in reservoir quality. Data was gathered from well logs of four wells, including two that provided whole-core samples amounting to 150 feet. Around 65 rock samples were chosen for thin section preparation, which were examined under a polarizing microscope to determine their mineralogical composition and diagenetic alterations. The study incorporated X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and core plug tests for porosity and permeability to analyze the mineralogy, pore throat structures, and pore system features of the reservoir. Findings indicated that the ASL Member originated from turbidites and gravity flows within a submarine fan system. Two adjacent siliciclastic sources, Wadi Baba and Wadi Feiran, were recognized as potential sources of coarser material transported through submarine canyons and relay ramps associated with extensional faults. Petrophysical analysis revealed considerable heterogeneity within the reservoir, with porosity ranging from 2% to 10% and permeability from 0.4 to 60 millidarcies (mD). The reservoir's quality is influenced by sedimentation and diagenesis, which can either enhance or diminish its characteristics. By combining sedimentological and petrophysical data, this study aims to identify high-quality reservoir zones. The results provide valuable insights into the factors affecting submarine fan systems in the Gulf of Suez basin and similar geological settings.