20 Sedimentology and Stratigraphy (Posters)
MIGRATION OF HYDROCARBONS THROUGH HYDROUS PYROLYSIS
Paper number: 20-12
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:45 PM
Authors
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Vincent SchlageterState University of New York at Potsdam, Potsdam, NY
Abstract
The purpose of this project was to experimentally observe the formation and migration of hydrocarbons through micro-fractures in different source rocks. This has been done through the process of hydrous pyrolysis and scanning electron microscopy. Using a sealed cylinder, the samples were heated in distilled water. Hydrous pyrolysis was conducted over intervals of one to five days at temperatures ranging from 300-350 degrees Celsius. The presence of micro-fractures facilitated the migration of hydrocarbons. Coalescing oil globules in the rock produced sausage shaped hydrocarbons, which migrated through the micro-fractures. The Monterey and Green River oil shales were used in this experiment.