Invictus’ belief in the prospectivity of its Mukuyu prospect has received a huge leg-up after seismic studies indicate strong potential for stacked hydrocarbon pay intervals.
Seismic inversion and further quantitative analysis studies indicate that the stacked pay intervals at the shallow target level in the new Post Dande (Horizon 200) likely consists of multiple hydrocarbon bearing zones that range from 40m to 80m thick.
Other signs that Invictus Energy (ASX:IVZ) is onto a winner include the presence of an extensive flat spot – a potential indicator of hydrocarbons – across the southern flank of the structure in the 500 Horizon Target (Upper Angwa) and anomalous, low interval velocity zones in the Upper Angwa that are indicative of gas fill.
The results are hugely encouraging for the company as it draws closer towards drilling in late July the Mukuyu-1 well that will test multiple stacked targets within the greater Mukuyu structure which could host 8.2 trillion cubic of gas and 247 million barrels of condensate.
“The Cabora Bassa 2021 Seismic Survey data continues to deliver results ahead of the two-well drilling program scheduled to commence in July,” managing director Scott Macmillan said.
“The multiple seismic anomalies evident in the Mukuyu prospect across our numerous stacked target horizons, which also demonstrate structural conformance, is highly encouraging and provides us with increased confidence in delivering a successful exploration outcome.
“The drilling campaign is taking shape with the Exalo Rig 202 preparing for mobilisation to Zimbabwe and long lead items arriving at our warehouse.
“The Mukuyu-1 wellpad construction is anticipated to be completed in the next few weeks and we are also continuing to make progress on the selection of the second well location for the upcoming campaign.”
Study details
The company noted that the results from the newly identified Horizon 200 target and its strong correlation of amplitude extent and structural closure meant that it will update the drill program to include a diverter system for the shallow sections of the Mukuyu-1 well.
Invictus added that while there are no wells present in the basin to enable calibration of the results, the strength of the anomaly and the values calculated are in the range that potentially indicate the presence of light hydrocarbons (most likely gas).
At Horizon 500, the identification of a flat spot is seen as further validation for the potential presence of hydrocarbons as they typically result from the seismic reflection from the base of a hydrocarbon column.
Meanwhile, further positive indicators for the potential presence of hydrocarbons can be shown by interval velocity data, which are usually slower in the presence of gaseous hydrocarbons.
The detailed interval velocity model was derived from the Pre-Stack Depth Migration undertaken on selected lines for depth control across the project area.
This model showed that there is a clear lens of lower interval velocity at the 500-600 level which is limited in extent to the breadth of the Mukuyu structure.
Notably, this anomalous, relatively slower interval velocity appears to be uniquely associated with the extent of the Mukuyu structure at the lower horizons where gaseous hydrocarbons are more likely to be present.
This article was developed in collaboration with Invictus Energy, a Stockhead advertiser at the time of publishing.
This article does not constitute financial product advice. You should consider obtaining independent advice before making any financial decisions.