Prospecting for Shale Gas

Successful Barnett-type shale gas-reservoirs share many geologic attributes. The amount of gas in place, the composition of the gas in place, and the mechanical properties of the prospective shale are the keys to a successful prospect. The depositional and tectonic histories of the prospective basin control these factors, of course. A good understanding of the rocks that are adjacent to the prospective shale, e.g., porosity, water saturation, and ability to contain a hydraulic fracture treatment of the prospective shale reservoir, is also necessary for a successful exploration program. The histories of the development of the Barnett Shale gas reservoir (very successful) and the Floyd/Neal Shale (so far unsuccessful) are useful to help explain how the understanding (or misunderstanding) of these geologic factors affects the outcome of a shale-gas exploration program.