Geochemical characteristics of source rocks and natural gas in Zitong Sag, Sichuan Basin

The characteristics and genetic types of natural gas in the Zitong Sag of the Sichuan Basin have been studied according to the development and geochemical features of source rocks. The hydrocarbon source rocks in the study area mainly located in the first, third and fifth members of the Xujiahe Formation, among which the third member is the thickest. The TOC content of the source rocks is generally greater than 1.0%. Organic matter is of humic type, usually mature or highly mature. A large amount of hydrocarbon has been generated, and the generation intensity is greater than 3×10⁹ m³/km². Favorable source rock conditions enhance the accumulation of natural gas in the study area. Both dry gas and wet gas have been found. In the Jiulongshan, Jianmen, Weicheng and Bailongchang areas, dry gas is dominant. In the Zhongba and Laoguanmiao areas, wet gas is common. In the Wenxingchang, Zhebachang, Fenggu and Mianyang areas, both dry gas and wet gas exist. The natural gas in the study area is mainly thermogenic coal gas originating from the Xujiahe Formation. Oil type gas exists only in the Jiulongshan area, and is sourced from the underlying marine source rocks.