AAPG Course Note Series No. 36

Dolomite Reservoirs: Geologic Techniques for Evaluating Origin and Distribution

by J.R. Allen and W.D. Wiggins

Dolomite Reservoirs was written to address the need for a short, clear text that

explains commonly used inorganic geochemical techniques and their application

to dolomite petroleum reservoirs. It was written in order to transfer this useful

geochemical technology to exploration and development geologists in a form that

facilitates easy application of geochemical concepts.

Dolomitization results in unique reservoir geometries that bear directly on

exploration strategy and field development. An understanding of the process that

controlled dolomitization is helpful for predicting reservoir location, geometry,

and continuity. Inorganic chemistry can often provide that understanding.

Part I consists of chapters on different geochemical techniques, with guidelines on

how best to apply them, interpret the data, and recognize and avoid the pitfalls

and misconceptions that one commonly encounters.

Part II consists of case studies of dolomite petroleum reservoirs that formed in

each of the major dolomitization environments.