3D Heterogeneous Geological Model of Natural Gas Hydrates in Shenhu Area, South China Sea

Natural gas hydrates, as a novel clean energy resource, have attracted widespread attention because of their highly complex reservoir properties, fluid distribution, and phase transitions. In particular, the fluid–solid interactions among hydrates, natural gas, water, and other multiphase components, along with phase state transitions influenced by temperature and pressure and the dynamic reservoir responses induced by hydrate decomposition and synthesis, make their study unique. Consequently, accurately predicting the structure and reservoir properties of natural gas hydrates remains a scientific challenge. In this study, high-resolution 3D seismic data, well logging, and core samples from the Shenhu test area in the South China Sea were utilized for stratigraphic correlation and classification. The hydrate, three-phase mixed, and free gas layers were identified as distinct geological bodies, and detailed stratigraphic subdivisions were performed based on hydrate distribution and physical properties. By integrating stochastic and deterministic modeling approaches, a comprehensive hydrate reservoir model, along with temperature and pressure field models, was established. For the first time, a three-dimensional heterogeneous geological model of the hydrate reservoir was developed for the test exploitation area. This model provides a robust geological foundation for hydrate reservoir studies, numerical simulations, and the formulation of efficient exploitation strategies, contributing to the advancement of natural gas hydrate exploration and production.