International Journal of Engineering

International Journal of Engineering

Modeling of Thermodynamic Processes for Assessing Hydrocarbon Systems at Depths Exceeding 5 km

Document Type : Special Issue on FPP

Authors
O. M. Prischepa
D. S. Lutsky
S. B. Kireev
Y. V. Nefedov
V. S. Stepanova
N. V. Sinitsa
N. N. Vostrikov
Department of Oil and Gas Geology, Saint-Petersburg Mining University of Empress Ekaterina II, St. Petersburg, Russia
10.5829/ije.2026.39.10a.16
Abstract
The discovery of oil reservoirs at great and ultra-great depths has necessitated a revision of existing concepts about the possibility of hydrocarbon generation and preservation under extremely high pressure–temperature conditions. This work analyzes geochemical approaches and basin modeling methods used for predicting hydrocarbon generation at great depths. It examines the influence of high temperatures and pressures, burial rate, phase transitions, and other factors on the formation and destruction of oil and gas. An analysis of deep hydrocarbon systems is performed, and the potential of thermodynamic modeling of fluid equilibrium compositions and the results of experiments on oil transformation under high P–T conditions are considered. A modern approach to assessing a high-organic-carbon (Domanik) formation is presented, which allows evaluation of hydrocarbon generation potential. The reasons why existing geochemical methods and basin modeling can yield inconclusive results for similar processes at great depths under extreme pressure–temperature conditions are identified. In particular, sources of uncertainty in hydrocarbon phase transitions are discussed, associated with a lack of experimental data for model calibration and the limitations of thermodynamic models beyond their validated ranges, among other factors.

Graphical Abstract

Modeling of Thermodynamic Processes for Assessing Hydrocarbon Systems at Depths Exceeding 5 km
Keywords
Deep Oil
Thermodynamic Modeling
Deep Horizons
Hydrocarbon Systems
High-pressure Reservoirs
Ultra-deep Petroleum Systems

Subjects

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International Journal of Engineering
Volume 39, Issue 10
TRANSACTIONS A: Basics
October 2026
Pages 2546-2558