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Leeds scientists discovery could help energy firms - 22/09/2008
Researchers from the University of Leeds have shown how giant channels on the ocean floor could point the way to new oil and gas reserves, potentially offering savings for energy companies.
The research, led by Ian Kane, found that channels, deep underwater, are built by currents carrying large volumes of sediment, which can trap valuable supplies of fossil fuels. These fields are already being tapped by deep-water production rigs off Brazil, West Africa, the Nile Delta, Mexico and Indonesia – but knowing where to drill is an inexact science. However, the research from Leeds could have significant implications for helping oil and gas companies to get the most out of the ground.
“What the companies have to do is make estimations using very limited data,” explained Mr Kane. “Anything that can give them a clearer picture of where to find oil and gas will be very valuable.”
Compared to river systems these underwater channels are difficult to study, even using remote-sensing techniques. So Kane, whose work is part-funded by a consortium of oil companies, used the world-leading Sorby Environmental Fluid Dynamics Laboratory at the University of Leeds to model the creation of these submarine channels.
The spin-off for the oil companies is clear. “An individual production well may cost over £50m, so understanding and predicting the distribution of the different rock types that hold these hydrocarbons is critical for optimising well type and location, and therefore producing more of the oil,” said Kane.
