Oil and Gas Exploration in Cuba


Book Description

A summary of the results achieved in the geological-structural mapping, by potential fields and airborne gamma spectrometry data, of the units of igneous and metamorphic rocks in the western regions (Havana-Matanzas), central (Cienfuegos, Villa Clara-Sancti Spiritus) and central-eastern (Camagüey-Las Tunas-Holguín) of Cuba is presented. In addition, the structural- tectonic regionalization with hydrocarbon exploration purposes, focusing mapping of possible new oil-gas targets in the regions of Land Blocks 9, 23 and 17-18 are detailed in this volume. In certain case study locations (Majaguillar, North Motembo, Guamutas and Maniabón) reconnaissance work by a profile of Redox Complex (complex of unconventional geophysical-geochemical exploration techniques) was performed with positive results. In an attempt to contribute to the geological-structural mapping of the metamorphic massif Isla de la Juventud, with emphasis on acid magmatism, the gravi-magnetometric data is used. According to the results, the presumed post metamorphic granitic bodies of low density are located, mainly, in the central and southwestern part of the massif. The granitic bodies apparently were introduced through the system of longitudinal faults (syn metamorphic) and transverse (post metamorphic) at the end of the process multyfolding and metamorphism of the massif sequences, taking a leading role the deep longitudinal fracture zones of sublatitudinal direction in the central and southern part of the massif. On the map of the magnetic field vertical derivative the anomalies, basically, reflected the direction and limits of the folded tectonic structure, the development area of ​​ volcanogenic rocks, the presumed development zones of migmatitic rocks and tectonised rocks in North and center of the massif, respectively, and the prevailing direction of the main tectonic dislocations.




Unconventional Methods for Oil & Gas Exploration in Cuba


Book Description

This book studies the “Redox Complex”, a complex of unconventional geophysical-geochemical exploration techniques used for the indirect detection, characterization and evaluation of various metal targets, while also illustrating selected applications of unconventional geophysical-geochemical methods for oil exploration in Cuba. This complex is successfully applied in various fields: oil & gas and metal ores exploration; studies of oil and metal contaminants in soils; and the search for metallic archaeological burials. The use of these techniques is intended to complement the conventional prospecting complex by reducing areas and/or facilitating the selection of the most favorable targets, improving the economical-geological effectiveness of investigations in the process. Further, the Redox Complex can be implemented without physical or chemical damage to the environment. The book’s primary goals are to: 1) outline the general features characterizing the processes of metal mobilization, transport and accumulation on surficial media; 2) outline the methodology, data interpretation and mathematical apparatus that support quantitative estimates of the Redox Complex; and 3) design a database and applications system (the Redox System) to address storage processes, reports, graphics and the corresponding interpretations of the Redox Complex in a quick and reliable way. To do so, it examines the regions of Havana-Matanzas (Varadero Oil Field, Cantel Oil Field and Madruga Prospect) and Ciego de Ávila (Pina Oil Field, Cristales Oil Field, Jatibonico Oil Field, Jatibonico Oeste Prospect and Cacahual Prospect). The methods covered include, in some cases, airborne gamma spectrometry (K/eTh ratio) beside ORP and, in others, the Redox Complex with reduced or standard attributes. In all cases, the anomalous complex of interest corresponds to the correlation of the minimum K/eTh ratio with minimum ORP and, in the case of the Redox Complex, Magnetic Susceptibility highs with ORP lows, Spectral Reflectance lows and maximum Content of Chemical Elements (V, Ni, Pb, Zn, Fe).




Offshore Exploration of Oil and Gas in Cuba using Digital Elevation Models (DEMs)


Book Description

This book provides an overview of the major changes induced by hydrocarbons (HCs) affecting rocks and surface sediments and their implications for non-seismic exploration methods, particularly for marine territories near Cuba. It examines the use of a digital elevation model (DEM) at 90x90m resolution for the detection of subtle, positive geomorphic anomalies related to hydrocarbon microseepage (vertical migration) on possible oil and gas targets. The results support the conclusion that the DEM data provides a low cost and fast offshore oil and gas preliminary exploration strategy. This data is useful serving to focus prospective areas with supplementary unconventional methods such as magnetic-induced polarization (MIP), useful to propose more expensive volumes for detailed 2D–3D seismic surveys.




Cuba's Energy Future


Book Description

Approaching an uncertain future without Fidel Castro, and still reeling from a downturn at the end of the cold war, Cuba must act decisively to improve its economy and living conditions. One of the major challenges facing the impoverished island nation is securing access to energy resources that are sufficient to meet the needs of its revitalization and development goals. What steps can Cuba take to achieve both short- and long-term energy sustainability and self-sufficiency? In this timely analysis, Jonathan Benjamin-Alvarado and his colleagues answer that question. Cuba's Energy Future sets the geostrategic context within which Cuba is operating. The book provides an overview of the evolving relations among Caribbean states and explains why Cuba and its longtime nemesis the United States should look for ways to cooperate on developing energy resources. The possible role of oil companies is explored, as is Cuba's energy relationship with Hugo Chavez's Venezuela. The second section of Cuba's Energy Future features economic and technical appraisals, economic projections, and trends affecting Cuba's energy needs, including oil and natural gas potential, the country's antiquated electric power sector, and the role of biofuels such as sugarcane ethanol. The concluding section focuses on the conditions necessary for, and the mutual benefits of, greater cooperative engagement with the United States. Contributors: Juan A. B. Belt (Chemonics International, formerly USAID), Jonathan Benjamin-Alvarado (University of Nebraska–Omaha and University of Georgia), Amy Myers Jaffe (Rice University), Jorge R. Piñón (Florida International University), Ronald Soligo (Rice University).




Geological-Structural Mapping and Favorable Sectors for Oil and Gas in Cuba


Book Description

The so-called "Non-conventional geophysical-geochemical exploration methods" are used, in the particular case of oil and gas exploration, for the detection and mapping of active microseepage of light hydrocarbons with a vertical nature on the gas-oil accumulations. The non-seismic exploration methods used in Cuba are: Remote Sensing, Gravimetry, Aeromagnetometry, Airborne Gamma Spectrometry (AGS) and Morphometry (non-conventional, from the Digital Elevation Model 90x90m). The AGS also classifies, as a non-conventional geophysical-geochemical method, together with the Redox Complex. Besides, it is of interest to know the geological-structural framework where these microseepage occur. That is why the benefits of using these methods (excluding Redox Complex), prior to their integration with geological and seismic data, translate into a first approximation, valid for an initial understanding of geology and mapping of favourable areas of possible gas-oil interest. Finally, from the implementation of these methods (including Redox Complex), perspective sectors for oil and gas are obtained, once the integration with geology and seismic has been carried out. The book presents a brief theoretical account of the methods used and, as practical results, a set of perspective sectors of possible interest for exploration in Cuba. As a complementary result, the book also offer an evaluation of the areas that meet the petroleum-geologist premises for the presence of large accumulations of high quality oil in Cuba.




The Mountain Mystery


Book Description

Fifty years ago, no one could explain mountains. Arguments about their origin were spirited, to say the least. Progressive scientists were ridiculed for their ideas. Most geologists thought the Earth was shrinking. Contracting like a hot ball of iron, shrinking and exposing ridges that became mountains. Others were quite sure the planet was expanding. Growth widened sea basins and raised mountains. There was yet another idea, the theory that the world's crust was broken into big plates that jostled around, drifting until they collided and jarred mountains into existence. That idea was invariably dismissed as pseudo-science. Or "utter damned rot" as one prominent scientist said. But the doubtful theory of plate tectonics prevailed. Mountains, earthquakes, ancient ice ages, even veins of gold and fields of oil are now seen as the offspring of moving tectonic plates. Just half a century ago, most geologists sternly rejected the idea of drifting continents. But a few intrepid champions of plate tectonics dared to differ. The Mountain Mystery tells their story.




Volcanic Reservoirs in Petroleum Exploration


Book Description

The first work of its kind, Volcanic Reservoirs in Petroleum Exploration summarizes the current research and exploration techniques of volcanic reservoirs as a source of oil and gas. With a specific focus on the geological features and development characteristics of volcanic reservoirs in China, it presents a series of practical exploration and evaluation techniques based on this research. Authored by an award-winning petroleum geologist, it introduces exploration and outcome prediction techniques that can be used by scientists in any volcanic region worldwide. Volcanic reservoirs as new sources of petroleum resources are a hot topic in petroleum exploration. Although volcanic rock cannot generate hydrocarbons, it can serve as a reservoir for hydrocarbons when conditions permit. This book explains the differences between volcanic reservoirs and other major reservoir types, and describes effective methods for examining volcanic distribution and predicting volcanic reservoirs, providing a framework for systematic studies throughout the world. - Includes an entire section dedicated to current trends in volcanic prediction and evaluation technology - More than 90 full-color photos illustrate the text in greater detail - Case studies conclude each chapter, helping scientists apply the book's concepts to real-life scenarios




The Gulf of Mexico Sedimentary Basin


Book Description

Introduction -- Mesozoic depositional evolution -- Cenozoic depositional evolution -- Petroleum habitat.




Economic Normalization with Cuba


Book Description

Description For more than 50 years the United States has attempted to destabilize and isolate the Castro regime in Cuba with the use of trade and financial sanctions, a policy that has fallen short of its objective. In this Policy Analysis, Gary Clyde Hufbauer and Barbara Kotschwar suggest that the sands of time may accomplish what economic pressure did not. Raúl Castro, president of Cuba since 2008, plans to step down at the end of 2018, implying a new regime in five years. Various forces are starting to emerge favoring economic normalization if Cuba appears ready to change its policies as well as its leadership. The authors caution, however, that a unilateral dismantling of US sanctions without insuring that proper institutions are in place in Cuba could squander a golden opportunity for US companies. They argue that a new US-Cuba relationship must entail a lifting of Cuba's barriers to trade and investment, liberalization of its economy, and the adoption of democratic institutions. They offer a roadmap for a future US-Cuba rapprochement.




Petroleum Migration


Book Description

Petroleum Migration follows petroleum from its generation in source rocks through migration to the reservoir or the surface. The book is divided into 4 parts. Part 1 deals with both the generation of petroleum by the thermal breakdown of kerogen and the expulsion of the petroleum from the source rock. Part 2 considers secondary migration: the procesess which control petroleum behaviour during its movement through relatively permeable carrier beds from the mudrock sequences, which contain source intervals, to the reservoir in the structural culmination of the carrier bed or other trap. Part 3 contains case studies which show how understanding of generation, expulsion and secondary migration can be used to explain the distribution of oil and gas in a basin and therefore, to predict the nature of the petoleum in an undrilled prospect. Part 4 examines leakage from accumulations.