Palynology in Hydrocarbon Exploration - Advancements in Indian Perspective

Palynology plays an important rote in cost effective exploration and exploitation of hydrocarbons. It consists of study of spores, pollen, dinoflagellate cysts, diatoms, nannoplankton, silicoflagellates, radiolaria, chitinozoa, algae and other organic remains.

Study of spore, pollen, dinoflagellate cysts and nannoplankton help in precise dating of sediments, marking of hiatuses and correlating surface and subsurface samples by giving absolute ages in million years. Source rock study helps in visual typing of kerogen, quantitative assessment of organic matter, paleoenvironment and palynofacies interpretation. Spectral analysis gives precise thermal maturation levels. The integration of source rock parameters helps in deciphering source rock potential facies. Correlation of burial history curves with the source rock potential facies helps in the determination of time and duration of hydrocarbon generation. Examples from different sedimentary basins emphasizing the role of palynology in hydrocarbon exploration are cited.

The biozonal comparisons and absolute pollen frequency (APF) values are being used for interpreting transgressive - regressive cycles. Paleogeographic maps can be reconstructed with palynological data. The chronostratigraphical correlation with seismic stratigraphy is being attempted in geologically synchronous stratal surfaces. Palynological studies support basin analysis leading to stratigraphic evolution and hydrocarbon prospect analysis. They aIso help to build sequence biostratigraphy and delineation of reservoir sands for effective reservoir management.