AP19175313 — Analysis of hydrocarbon systems and assessment of the oil and gas potential of Paleozoic sediments of the Tasbulak trough of the Shu-Sarysui basin under conditions of uncertainty based on basin modeling

Purpose: Reconstruction of the history of the formation of hydrocarbon systems and establishment of patterns of distribution of hydrocarbon resources within the Paleozoic sediment complex of the Tasbulak trough based on 2D seismic survey, deep drilling and minimal amount of geochemical information.

Relevance: The Shu-Sarysui basin is the only predominantly gas-bearing basin in Kazakhstan, but its hydrocarbon potential has not been sufficiently studied. Modern geological exploration methods, including 2D seismic exploration and computer basin modeling, make it possible to fill in data gaps and identify promising areas of oil and gas accumulation. The research is aimed at improving the efficiency of the search and development of low-carbon energy sources, which is important for meeting the domestic needs of the country and the development of its energy sector.

Scientific supervisor: Doctor of Ph.D., Zhumagulov Almas

Results obtained:  Within the research work, a comprehensive reconstruction of the geological structure and evolution of hydrocarbon systems in the Tasbulak trough was carried out by integrating seismic, drilling, and geochemical data. Heterogeneous datasets were digitized and unified into a single database, which served as the basis for constructing 3D geological and basin models using specialized software. Seismic profiles were interpreted to identify structural elements reflecting the tectonic evolution of the region. Modeling of hydrocarbon generation, migration, and accumulation processes was performed, including thermal history and organic matter maturity assessment. Facies maps, probability of success, and petroleum geological zoning were developed to identify prospective areas. The obtained results confirm the presence of effective hydrocarbon systems and provide a foundation for further exploration activities.

List of publications with links to them

1. Жумагулов А. С., Исмаилова Ж. А. Стратиграфия и литология палеозойских отложений Тасбулакского грабена Шу-Сарысуйского бассейна // Нефть и газ. 2023. № 5 (137). С. 6–16. DOI: https://doi.org/10.37878/2708-0080/2023-5.01. – URL: https://doi.org/10.37878/2708-0080/2023-5.01.
2. Zhumagulov A.S., Ismailova J.A. Geological and geophysical studies and exploratory drilling of Paleozoic sediments in the Tasbulak Graben // Neft’ i Gaz. 2023. Vol. 6 (138). P. 32–42. DOI: https://doi.org/10.37878/2708-0080/2023-6.08. – URL: https://doi.org/10.37878/2708-0080/2023-6.08.
3. Жумагулов А. С. Геологическое строение и перспективы нефтегазоносности средне-верхнепалеозойских отложений Тасбулакского прогиба по комплексу геолого-геофизических данных: дис. … д-ра философии (PhD): 8D07104 – «Нефтегазовая и рудная геофизика» / КазНИТУ им. К. И. Сатпаева. Алматы, 2024. 140 с. Рег. № PhD 00015332824. – URL: https://official.satbayev.university/ru/protection/zhumagulov-almas-serikbaevich.
4. Zhumagulov A., Abetov A., Manzari M. T., Ismailova J. Petroleum systems of the Shu–Sarysu Basin, Kazakhstan: A review of Devonian–Permian gas potential // Geosciences. 2025. Vol. 15. No. 6. Art. 232. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences15060232. – URL: https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences15060232.
5. Zhumagulov A., Abetov A. 3D Structural Modeling and Analysis of the Devonian–Permian Succession in the Tasbulak Trough, Central Kazakhstan: Insights into Trap Formation and Preservation // Geosciences. 2025. Manuscript ID: geosciences-3930659. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences15120456. – URL: https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences15120456.