FRACTURE ANALYSIS OF THE ROCKS EXPOSED IN MARGALLA HILLS: ESTIMATION OF RESERVOIR PROPERTIES OF CARBONATE ROCKS

Abstract

Fracture characterization in rocks, either carbonate or clastic, has always played a pivotal role in estimating the reservoir characteristics for both, petroleum and water prospects. Fractures, present in rocks, increase the potentiality of rocks to store and reserve water and hydrocarbons and also provide migration routes and barriers. This research aims to implement the methodology of fracture analysis for fracture characterization. For this purpose, Margalla Hills area was selected. Different types of formations containing carbonate and clastic rocks were characterized. The fracture parameters of different formations were evaluated like orientation, density, porosity and permeability and also, distribution of joint sets. The results showed that carbonate rocks have more fractures in an area as compared to clastic rocks, enabling the former rocks to contain high porosity and permeability. In view of this, Lockhart Limestone acts as good reservoir as compared to other formations followed by Margalla Hill Limestone and Samana Suk Formation. On the other hand, clastic rocks such as Murree Formation acts as poor reservoir as compared to carbonate rocks.