Hydrocarbon Prospect Identification through Subsurface and Petrophysical Evaluation of the Alam El-Bueib Formation in the Kenz Oil Field, Northwestern Desert, Egypt

This study evaluates the petroleum potential of the Alam El-Bueib (AEB) Formation in the Kenz Oil Field, located in Egypt's Northwestern Desert, through an integrated approach combining subsurface seismic imaging and petrophysical analysis. Utilizing well log data from five wells and thirty 2D seismic lines, the study focuses on the AEB- 1, AEB-3A, AEB-3D, and AEB-3E units, which are key reservoirs in the region. The analysis reveals significant hydrocarbon potential in the northeastern and southeastern sections of the field, characterized by increased net pay thickness (up to 76 ft in AEB- 3A and 63 ft in AEB-3E) and effective porosity (ranging from 9% to 36%). Hydrocarbon saturation reaches up to 87% in the AEB-3E unit, with water saturation as low as 13%. Shale content is notably reduced in these areas, dropping to as low as 5% in the AEB- 3A unit, enhancing reservoir quality and hydrocarbon productivity. The study identifies two prospective regions with favorable geological formations for petroleum accumulation, supported by structural traps created by NW-SE and N-S trending faults. These faults, influenced by Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous tectonic activity, play a crucial role in hydrocarbon entrapment. The integration of seismic interpretation and petrophysical analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of the AEB Formation's reservoir characteristics, highlighting the novelty of this study in identifying new exploration targets. The findings underscore the importance of targeting the northeastern and southeastern regions for future exploration, where enhanced reservoir quality and reduced non-reservoir materials significantly improve the potential for economically viable hydrocarbon discoveries. This study not only advances the understanding of the AEB Formation's hydrocarbon potential but also provides a strategic framework for optimizing exploration and production activities in the Kenz Oil Field.