LAUSR

Abstract In this contribution we present the results of an integrated investigation of selected nitrogen- and oxygen-bearing compounds in Norwegian Central Graben crude oils. We first provide an interpretation framework built on hydrocarbon biomarkers, and then use this framework to relate polar compound geochemistry to the influences of source facies (Farsund versus Mandal Formations), maturity, migration and reservoir lithology. Oil maturity could be assessed using established changes in carbazole annelation (N1 DBE 9 vs. 12 vs. 15 classes), as well as hydrocarbon biomarkers. 29Ts/(29Ts + NH) correlated best with the polar compound maturity data. Secondary migration fractionation appears nevertheless to have played a role, as seen by increased DBE 9 and 12 carbazole and benzocarbazole proportions and a loss of C2-3 DBE 12 homologues within carbonate reservoirs as compared to intraformational Upper Jurassic siliciclastic reservoirs. Thus migration distances, pathways and wettability of carrier systems ostensibly play a significant role in carbazole distributions of the Central Graben oils, manifesting itself as apparent maturity retardation. In an attempt to eliminate the migration component from maturity assessment, we here present a novel ternary diagram including dibenzocarbazoles (N1 DBE 15) and phenolic species (O1 DBE 4 and 5) based on a single measurement using the FT-ICR-MS. However, the integration of such results into 3D-modelling software must be conducted to clarify source kitchen, migration pathways and distances.