Basin modelling

Basin modelling profiles are based on seismics

The most important factors behind the generation of hydrocarbons in sedimentary basins are temperature and time. The temperature regime in a basin is affected by various geological processes throughout the history of the basin. This includes processes related to basin geometry, such as basin formation, deposition/erosion of sediments and faulting, and physical processes related to compaction, heat flow and fluid flow.

Hydrocarbon generation potential in many basins is a critical factor in the prospectivity of potential traps. One of the tools used for exploration is a basin modelling program. Fairly simple exploration methods led to the early discoveries of the structural traps of oil and gasfields globally. A lot of interesting fields are, however, characterised by complicated geological structures. More sophisticated exploration methods are needed to make hydrocarbon discoveries in structural traps in these areas. There is therefore a growing need for basin modelling systems that can handle more of the complex controlling geological processes that lead to generation and migration of hydrocarbons. Better insight into the mechanisms of basin formation has a direct bearing on the predictive power of basin models.

Our basin modelling software, the BMT^TM program comprises a powerful and broadly applicable set of tools for solving exploration problems in basins around the world, not least in geological complex areas, like the Barents Sea. BMT^TM is an advanced two-dimensional (2-D) basin modelling system with high resolution and structural reconstruction capabilities.