Geochemical comparison of fluid inclusion and present-day oil accumulations in the Papuan Foreland - evidence for previously unrecognised petroleum source rocks

None of the FI oils correlate well with oil families previously described in Papua New Guinea. Accordingly, the oils recovered from FIs in this part of the Papuan Basin support the presence of laterally varying source rock compositions and qualities, and indicate that there are opportunities to develop new charge models for features across the Papuan Foreland. Furthermore, Koko-1, Bujon-1 and Kimu-1 FI oils have different geochemical compositions compared to the associated free oils or oil stains, indicating that each of these localities has a multi-phase charge history. Further work to lower exploration risk in the Papuan Foreland should be directed to understanding the distribution, maturity and expulsion history of these newly recognised potential source rocks.