Organic matter-driven electrical resistivity of immature lacustrine oil-prone shales

Abstract

Organic matter (OM) and minerals are major particle components in lacustrine organic-rich shales. Their association and distribution control the development of the primary pore space. The response of OM-driven conduction by modifying the pore-space volume and structure in organic-rich shales of the virgin zone is still unclear. Based on a detailed study of geochemical, mineralogical, and geophysical properties from immature lacustrine oil-prone shales of the Songliao Basin (Northeast China), we have observed a novel continuous variation of electrical resistivity driven by large ranges of total-organic-carbon (TOC) content (0.64–24.51 wt%). The reduced resistivity at low TOC content ([Formula: see text]) and then enhanced resistivity at high TOC content ([Formula: see text]) are present in our immature shales. These variations in electrical resistivity are confirmed by fluid (S1) and solid organic compounds (S2). Furthermore, clay and detrital minerals in shales contribute to the variation of electrical resistivity as well as OMs at low and high TOC content. The electrical resistivity of shales is closely related to the pore-space volume and structure for the electrical flow pathway. Two resistivity trends are highlighted by pore parameters such as the pore volume, throat/pore ratio, pore diameter, and bulk density. Although reduced amounts and the arrangement of large pores for low TOC content cannot decrease the conduction, the enhanced additional clay conduction and low OM concentration reduce the resistivity of shales. Moreover, increased amounts of nonconductive fluid and solid organic compounds and the effect of OM filling on pore space during high TOC content enhance the resistivity of shales. Thus, modified minerals and pore space driven by various OMs affect the electrical resistivity of immature shales. These results improve the understanding of OM-driven conduction in shales and contribute to the evaluation of source rocks using a well-log method.