Characteristics of Source Rocks and Genetic Origins of Natural Gas in Deep Formations, Gudian Depression, Songliao Basin, NE China

Abstract

Numerous large gas fields with large proven reserves occur in the deep formations of Songliao Basin, NE China. However, some challenges remain as follows: (1) the main source rock is poorly studied and (2) the origins and genetic types of the natural gases are controversial. In this study, these problems can be addressed by the research of the paleoenvironments during shale deposition, the organic matter sources, the source rock potential, the gas origin and genetic type, and gas–source correlations. The redox conditions of the water column during the Huoshiling to Yingcheng depositions were transitional (suboxidizing to subreducing) environments, and the Huoshiling deposition corresponded to reducing conditions. The paleosalinity of water was brackish to fresh from Huoshiling to Yingcheng depositions. The organic matters of the Huoshiling–Yingcheng shales mainly originated from terrigenous and/or lacustrine materials. The shales are evaluated as the fair to good source rock potential, and the Huoshiling is the best. The gases in the Huoshiling and Shahezi were mainly organic and thermogenic origins, with some inorganic origins. The gases of organic origins are mainly the mixed sources of coal-derived and oil-associated gases and are predominant products of secondary cracking, suggesting the well gas exploration potential in deep formations of Songliao Basin. The gases in the Shahezi formation are predominantly sourced by the Shahezi shales, indicating an approaching-source accumulation.