Sverdrup Sedimentary Basin, Arctic Islands
The scientific research and results of this project are available for download via GEOSCAN.
The Sverdrup Sedimentary Basin, Arctic Islands project, part of the Geo-mapping for Energy and Minerals (GEM) program, aims to produce a new understanding of proven and conceptual hydrocarbon systems in the Sverdrup Basin. Before this can be accomplished, input parameters need to be gathered on key aspects of the possible plays. These parameters include spatial distribution, area of closure, porosity, expected hydrocarbon (oil and gas), seal quality, timing of trap formation relative to hydrocarbon migration, and geological risk factors. Key gaps in knowledge occur with stratigraphic traps and traps associated with the flanks of salt domes.
Project leader – Keith Dewing
Hypothesis:
Are there petroleum systems in the Arctic Islands that were not explored for by industry in the 1970s-80s? If so, what exploration opportunities can be identified and what is the size of the undiscovered resource?
Scientific Highlights
- Demonstrated cross basinal migration of oil from the lower Paleozoic source rocks into reservoirs in the Sverdrup Basin; opening new play possibilities along the southern margin of the Sverdrup Basin.
- Additional work on the subsurface of Sabine Peninsula and adjacent offshore areas using existing seismic data has helped establish the timing relationships between salt movement and hydrocarbon migration.
- Salt flanges have been detected on seismic sections across the margins of the salt diapirs on Ellef Ringnes Island.
- The level of thermal maturity in the potential source rocks of the Schei Point Group in the western Sverdrup Basin is not considered to have entered the gas window.
A listing of other GEM energy projects is available on the Geo-mapping for Energy web page.