Petroleum Geochemistry Research

Petroleum geochemical research within CAOG involves analysis and interpretation that has led to the discovery of new oil fields and to improvements in strategies for developing existing fields. Current research activity within the Centre includes fundamental research and that which is of commercial benefit to the petroleum industry. Modern organic geochemical techniques offer the means to help minimise risk in petroleum exploration and production, assisting petroleum companies to remain competitive. Organic geochemistry can also provide information to constrain and improve the accuracy of petroleum evaluation models, enhance production performance and reduce the environmental impact of the petroleum industry.

CAOG has established an international reputation for its pioneering work with biomarkers; tracing the molecular remains of ancient plants, algae and microorganisms in petroleum and sedimentary organic matter. Characterisation of biomarkers is a key to reconstructing depositional environments and correlating oils to their corresponding source rocks. Such information has been used to determine the age and maturity of petroleum source rocks, helping to locate new prospects and reduce exploration risk.

A major research program is currently underway, aimed at developing fundamental understanding of the processes that lead to the composition of crude oils. As source rocks mature with increasing temperature, petroleum is produced and expelled under the effects of great pressure. As it migrates subtle changes occur in its composition. Curtin's extensive experience in studies of aromatic components of petroleum provides the necessary foundations for the Centre to significantly contribute to the understanding of these processes, which are of great interest to petroleum explorationists around the world.

The degradation of oil and drilling mud discharges in the marine environment is also under investigation, to better determine their environmental impact.

The Centre, with its advanced analytical chemistry capabilities, is contributing to all facets of the petroleum industry through exploration petroleum geology, support for corrosion and production engineers and environmental geochemistry.