Publications

This article discusses a regional study that leverages available open-source data and fully integrates wells with the latest seismic, creating detailed calibrated facies maps at key petroleum system levels that can be used to investigate various plays and identify prospectivity in underexplored areas of the basin. 

138,263 line kms of 2D seismic data in the East Java Sea were matched, tied, and transformed into a new interpretable 3D volume covering an area of almost 160, 000 km2. We called this transformation a 2Dcubed and use this volume to gain a regional overview. This was the study baseline that enabled structural framework and consistent regional interpretation that was calibrated to 86 exploration and appraisal wells. 

Detailed well interpretation, including sequence, chronostratigraphic, and lithostratigraphic picks, as well as gross depositional environment (GDE) and facies, are part of the study.  With inputs derived from cutting descriptions, core data, well correlations, seismic facies interpretations, and biostratigraphic reports. Specific attention was paid to the lithological interpretation, specifically the variation and gradation within the dominant carbonates of the region, feeding into the wider depositional model, building upon the hydrocarbon story that already exists.

Maps derived from the latest seismic data enable the generation of regional GDE maps that delineate the geological evolution and sedimentary history of the region, providing insights into the petroleum system at key intervals, but also has multiple applications for Carbon Capture Storage (CCS), through overburden and potential aquifer distribution mapping.  

The study helps to high-grade areas for prospectivity and also includes blocks in the bid round, with the Kojo block in the Makassar Straight that’s scheduled for 2025.  New seismic data continues to be acquired throughout this study area and is being used as an interpretation QC.  This work suggests that there is still plenty of potential for conventional exploration as well as CCS applications within this region