Distribution and Origin of a Tar Mat in the S. Field (Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.)

This study has been conducted to investigate the distribution mid origin of bitumen (tar mat) occurring in the Thamama Zone B reservoir (Upper Kharaib Fm., Lower CretEval and electrical-log derived methods. The result provides a realistic 3D image of tlle tar mat distribution at the field scale. Biomarker analysis suggests tllat tllere is no difference in origin nor maturity between the tar mat and the overlying oil. Comparison between bitumen location, sedimentological facies, petrophysical properties, field structural history, present-day and paleo-OWCs were used to decipher the process and timing of the tar mat deposition.