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Year 2026
 
Vol 67, Issue 3, [06 - 2026]

Development of a 3D petroleum system model for the northeast Cuu Long basin, Vietnam

DOI:10.46326/JMES.2026.67(3).03

  • Affiliations:

    1 Petrovietnam Exploration Production Corporation (PVEP), Hanoi, Vietnam
    2 Vietnam Petroleum Institution (VPI), Hanoi, Viet Nam
    3 Research group: Basin, Stratigraphy and Sedimentary processes (BSSP), Hanoi University of Mining and Geology, Hanoi, Vietnam

  • *Corresponding:
    This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
  • Received: 6th-Nov-2025
  • Revised: 10th-Feb-2026
  • Accepted: 23rd-Feb-2026
  • Online: 1st-June-2026
Pages: 30 - 43
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Abstract:

This study presents the development of an integrated petroleum system model for the northeastern part of the Cuu Long Basin, a region with high hydrocarbon potential but complex geological settings and limited systematic investigations. The objectives are to simulate hydrocarbon generation, migration, and accumulation processes; assess undiscovered potential; and provide a scientific basis for exploration strategies to minimize geological risks. An integrated approach combining 2D/3D seismic data, 97 wells, and detailed geochemical analyses was applied to construct structural, lithological, and geochemical models. Thermal history calibration (heat flow and erosion) was conducted through 1D modelling at well locations to ensure that simulated parameters (temperature, vitrinite reflectance) matched measured data, thereby improving the reliability of the 3D basin model. The results show that the main Oligocene source rocks (Formations D and E) have reached oil and gas generation thresholds within deep sub-basins. The temporal synchronization between trap formation (Late Oligocene-Early Miocene) and hydrocarbon generation-migration (from Middle Miocene to present) is the key factor controlling petroleum accumulation efficiency. Major fault systems serve as principal migration conduits channeling hydrocarbons into traps. The model demonstrates high reliability by accurately predicting reservoir intervals, hydrocarbon phases, and field locations such as Ruby, Diamond, and Thang Long, confirming its effectiveness as a predictive tool for reducing exploration uncertainty and guiding future exploration strategies.

How to Cite
., M.Quang Ha, Le, T.Anh, Nguyen, D.Anh, Trinh, B.Song, Nguyen, T.Van, Phan, A.Thi Quynh, Tran, H.Dang, Le, T.Van, Nguyen, T.Le, Huynh, H.Yen Huynh and ., T.Manh Do 2026. Development of a 3D petroleum system model for the northeast Cuu Long basin, Vietnam (in Vietnamese). Journal of Mining and Earth Sciences. 67, 3 (Jun, 2026), 30-43. DOI:https://doi.org/10.46326/JMES.2026.67(3).03.
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