Source Rock Characteristics of Sargelu Formation in X Well, Northern Mesopotamian Zone, Iraq

Sargelu Formation from X Well in the northwestern part of the Mesopotamian Zone was studied to evaluate the hydrocarbon generation potential. For this purpose, 10 rock samples were analyzed for TOC, Rock-Eval pyrolysis, detailed hydrocarbon fingerprint and petroleum biomarkers analysis. Sargelu Formation in X Well has TOC between 1.20 and 9.71 wt.%, with an average 3.60 wt.%, an increase in TOC with depth was not observed. Samples from shallow depths showed very high TOC percentages (more than 9wt.%), indicating excellent source rock category. The remaining samples had TOC values ranging falling into the good-very good source rock category. Organic matter is composed mainly of type II kerogen and some in II/III. Tmax values (425-432oC) and biomarker ratios (moretane/hopane, C29SS/SS+RR, C29ββ/ββ+αα, and MPI) indicating that the samples are immature- marginal mature. Low C19/C19+C23 and terroigeneous to aquatic ratios, and regular sterane distribution indicate mainly marine organic matter with some contributions from terresterial organic matter. Additionaly, low Pr/Ph also suggests a marine organic matter source and anoxic depositional environment