Geochemical Evaluation of Surmeh Formation as a Candidate Source Rock in South Pars Field

With respect to distribution of Surmeh Formation in Persian Gulf region, this formation may act as candidate source rock for hydrocarbon accumulation in this region. A comprehensive geochemical analysis including Rock-eval Pyrolysis, Gas Chromatography (GC), Gas Chromatography - Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), were carried out on cuttings, in order to determine its hydrocarbon potentiality. Based on Rock-Eval data, the organic matter of the Surmeh formation is type II and III kerogen, with low maturity being at the end of diagensis stage. It exhibits a poor source rock characterization with low content of TOC. A close similarity can be seen, between organic matter extracted from Surmeh sample with that of oil sample collected from Upper Dariyan, Lower Dariyan and Maudud reservoir in the field. Biomarker results indicate that an open marine and few terrestrial input source rocks deposited in an anoxic condition with carbonate origin. Based on geochemical investigations Surmeh Formation isnt suitable source rock in the study area locally. Biomarker derived from rock extracts and trapped oils indicated that they share the same origin and were stained by laterally migrating oils from distant area.