This course addresses the principal concepts and applications of reservoir geochemistry used in the evaluation and production of hydrocarbon (oil and gas) reservoirs.

Day 1 provides participants with an introduction to the fundamental aspects and basic applications of geochemistry, including hydrocarbon systems, composition, and analytical methods. Laboratory techniques are reviewed, such as Rock–Eval pyrolysis, Soxhlet extraction, column chromatography, asphaltene precipitation, gas chromatography (GC), gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), headspace gas analysis, and fluid inclusion microthermometry. Practical examples and sample problems are included.

Day 2 focuses on biomarker and bulk correlation parameters, as well as evaluation techniques used to assess the quantity, quality, and maturation of generated hydrocarbons. Concepts related to primary, secondary, and tertiary hydrocarbon migration and associated migration mechanisms are also discussed.

Day 3 covers in situ alterations of hydrocarbons, including oil and gas biodegradation, along with interpretational pitfalls and practical exercises. This session includes hands-on interpretation of GC and GC–MS data.

Day 4 introduces reservoir geochemistry applications through global case studies, including examples from some of the world’s giant oil and gas fields. Participants will examine reservoir charge history using real examples from sedimentary basins, supported by sample problems.

Day 5 presents the concept of dynamic reservoir geochemistry, addressing reservoir continuity, compartmentalization, prediction of oil and gas properties, solid bitumen identification, and production allocation.