Microfacies characteristics and reservoir potential of Triassic Baikouquan Formation, northern Mahu Sag, Junggar Basin, NW China

By using data such as lithology, thin sections, sedimentary structure, particle size, logging facies signs, mercury intrusion, porosity and permeability from 34 wells, 11 types of sedimentary microfacies were divided in this study. Upon analysis, sedimentary microfacies exert significant control on reservoirs, and high quality reservoirs are primarily developed with the following sedimentary microfacies: gray sandy conglomerate in underwater distributary channels microfacies of fan delta fronts sub-facies, river-estuary dams and gray sandstones of distal bars on the front edge of the fan delta that have strong hydrodynamic conditions and good stability. Relatively good reservoirs are primarily distributed in the braided channel in fan-delta plains with brown sandy conglomerates, main channel of underwater distributary channels on the front edge of the fan delta with gray conglomerates and underwater distributary channel ends on the front edge of the fan delta with gray fine sandstones. With the stable tectonic background, Triassic sedimentary microfacies in the Mahu sag control the distribution and development of reservoirs. Therefore, sites of high quality reservoirs can be predicted by sedimentary microfacies, and this study provides guidance for oil and gas exploration.