TITLE:
Turbidite Dynamics and Hydrocarbon Reservoir Formation in the Tano Basin: A Coastal West African Perspective
AUTHORS:
Michael K. Appiah, Sylvester K. Danuor, Striggner Bedu-Addo, Alfred K. Bienibuor
KEYWORDS:
Reservoir Characterization, Tano Basin, Seismic Data, Hydrocarbon Potential, Channels, Turbidites
JOURNAL NAME:
International Journal of Geosciences,
Vol.15 No.2,
February
29,
2024
ABSTRACT: This study examines the turbidite dynamics and
hydrocarbon reservoir formation in Ghana’s Tano Basin, which is
located in coastal West Africa. Through an exploration of geological
processes spanning millions of years, we uncover key factors shaping
hydrocarbon accumulation, including source rock richness, temperature, pressure,
and geological structures. The research offers valuable insights applicable to
exploration, management, and sustainable resource exploitation in coastal West
Africa. It facilitates the identification of exploration targets with higher
hydrocarbon potential, enables the anticipation of reservoir potential within
the Tano Basin, and assists in tailoring exploration and management strategies to specific geological conditions of the
Tano Basin. Analysis of fluvial channels sheds light on their impact on
landscape formation and hydrocarbon exploration. The investigation into
turbidite systems unveils intricate
interactions involving tectonics, sea-level fluctuations, and
sedimentation patterns, influencing the development of reservoirs. An understanding of
sediment transport and depositional settings is essential for efficient
reservoir management. Geomorphological features, such as channels, submarine canyons, and distinct channel types, are essential in this situation. A detailed
examination of turbidite channel structures, encompassing canyons, channel
complexes, convex channels, and U-shaped channels, provides valuable
insights and aids in identifying exploration targets like basal lag, channel
levees, and lobes. These findings underscore the enduring significance of
turbidite systems as conduits for sediment transport, contributing to enhanced
reservoir management and efficient hydrocarbon production. The study also
highlights how important it is to examine the configuration of sedimentary
layers, stacking patterns, and angular laminated facies to identify turbidites, understand reservoir
distribution, and improve well
design. The dynamic nature of turbidite systems, influenced by basin characteristics such as shape and slope, is highlighted. The research provides
valuable insights essential for successful hydrocarbon exploration, reservoir
management, and sustainable resource exploitation in coastal West Africa.