Potentiality and timing of generation of Kareem and Rudeis formations, Central Gulf of Suez

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate source rock formations (Kareem and Rudeis) through quantitative and qualitative analysis of pyrolysis data from 44 ditch samples from three wells (Elkhaligue-1, Kareem-1, and El Ayune-1) at different depths in the central Gulf of Suez. From these data we concluded that Kareem and Rudeis formations are fair to good source rocks and have a generating potential fair to good to generate both oil and gas generated from mixed type II kerogene deposited under anoxic conditions, also they considered as fair to good oil sources. Both formations are mature and this conclusion is confirms by the burial histories of the three wells where Kareem Formation reached the early stage of generation at time ranges from 6 to 1.5 m.y while Rudeis Formation reached the oil window at time ranges from 18 to 6.6 m.y which considered a very good timing for excellent preservation efficiency of the hydrocarbons generated.

Keywords:

• burial history
• Egypt
• Gulf of Suez
• pyrolysis
• source rock evaluation