Distribution pattern of Ahwaz sandstone and Kalhur evaporite members of Asmari Formation in Dezful Embayment and Abadan plain, a basis for stratigraphic traps studies

Abstract

Ahwas sandstone and Kalhur evaporate members are two main constituents of the best reservoir unit of Zagros region, i.e. Asmari Formation. Poorly cemented to loose nature of the sandstone member and it's well textural maturity provide highly porous and permeable zones, whereas highly compacted nature of the evaporate member provide impermeable zones in the reservoir. This paper aims to study the lithological characteristics of these members and their lateral and vertical distribution in two main zones of the Zagros, i.e. Dezful Embayment and Abadan Plain.The sandstone member is well developed in central part of the northern Dezful Embayment and Abadan Plain. It is poorly developed in the southern Dezful Embayment, except for its NW. Based on its distribution patterns, the bordering fields around the central part of the northern Dezful Embayment and Abadan Plain are found more susceptible for development of the stratigraphic traps. On the other hand, The evaporate member is well developed in NW of the northern Dezful Embayment but is absent in southern Dezful Embayment, except Parsi and Karanj fields. Therefore based on its distribution pattern in the studied area, the NW bordering fields between northern and southern Dezful Embayment have greater potential for stratigraphic traps development.