Natural gas geology and exploration direction of the Cambrian Lower Canglangpu Member in central Sichuan paleo-uplift, Sichuan Basin, SW China

Abstract Based on drilling data of JT1 and CS1, outcrop profiles and seismic data, the sedimentary pattern, space configuration of source-reservoir-cap combinations and paleouplift evolution characteristics of the Cambrian Lower Canglangpu Member in the central Sichuan paleouplift have been investigated to determine the favorable exploration zones. Controlled by Deyang-Anyue rift, the Lower Canglangpu Member features differential characteristics from east to west in sedimentary framework. In the west side of the Deyang-Anyue rift, this member is composed of clastic sediments, while in the east side of the Deyang-Anyue rift, it is fresh water shelf sediments, with grain beaches occurring along edges of the depressions, shelf and lagoon. Among the beaches, the dolomitic ones are mainly distributed around the depression edge and in the north of the lagoon. The beach sediments could become high quality reservoirs under the effect of karstification. Underlying the Lower Canglangpu Member is the widespread source rock of the Qiongzhusi Formation, so oil and gas generated by the Qiongzhusi Formation source rock can directly charge into the beach reservoirs. The sandy mudstone of the Upper Canglangpu Member can serve as the caprock of the Lower Canglangpu Member reservoir. The dolomitic beaches are located at the higher part of the paleo-uplift during the main accumulation period, with good hydrocarbon accumulation elements. Blocks PT1-CS1, HT1-GT2 and east GT2 are favorable exploration zones.