3D Petroleum Systems Model for the Vulcan Sub-basin, Offshore Western Australia

A 2026 dataset from the Australian Ocean Data Network containing results from a 3D petroleum systems modeling study of the Vulcan Sub-basin. The data includes scenarios simulated with PetroMod 3D V.10 software, building on prior work by Fuji et al. (2004). It provides predictions on source rock transformation, fluid composition, and hydrocarbon accumulations for this offshore region.

Use Cases

• Predicting hydrocarbon accumulation locations based on modeled source rock maturity and fault closures.
• Analyzing bulk fluid compositional variations based on different PhaseKinetic model scenarios.
• Assessing exploration risk based on modeled trap definitions and cap rock properties.
• Comparing generation timing and present-day maturity between different sub-basin kitchen areas.

Strengths

• Model results align with locations of most proven fields, suggesting predictive validity.
• Includes multiple scenarios showing distinct variations in petroleum distribution and fluid properties.
• Data hosted by the authoritative Australian Ocean Data Network and updated in 2026.

Limitations

• Model resolution is described as low, which may affect the precision of accumulation size predictions.
• Column-level documentation is absent; data structure and semantics must be inferred after download.
• Key risks like source rock definition and cap rock properties are noted as largely unconstrained.

Provenance

Source

Australian Ocean Data Network

Collection Method

Simulated using PetroMod 3D V.10 modeling software on scenarios of an original 3D model.

Time Range

Present-day maturity and generation timing are analyzed.

Freshness

Last updated 2026-06-27 20:50:57.108464; freshness should be verified.

Geography

Vulcan Sub-basin, Offshore Western Australia, including Central Swan Graben and Cartier Trough.