The potential of normal-pressureshale gas explorationofWufeng Formation and the lower Silurian Longmaxi Formationin Wulongarea

Based on the achievements and knowledge of shale gas exploration and development in Sichuan Basin, the potential of normal-pressure shale gas exploration has been studied through drilling, geophysical prospecting and experimental analysis in Wulong area. It is revealed that the static evaluation indexes are superior and have good shale gas exploration potential of the Ordovician Wufeng Formation and the lower Silurian Longmaxi Formation in this area. The difference of single well productivity is mainly due to the influence of tectonics between Wulong, Jiaoshiba and Nanchuan District. Based on regional tectonic evolution, fine interpretation of seismic data and analysis of structural patterns, the Wulong Basin is divided into the southern depression with central uplift region, the northern slope region, the central faulted fold region and the eastern Graben region. The central uplift area in the southern depression and the fault-developed fold area in the central part are favorable targets for shale gas exploration.