Hydrogeology of a Large Oil-and-Gas Basin in Central Patagonia

This book analyzes the most important geohydrological aspects of the San Jorge Gulf Basin (Chubut and Santa Cruz provinces, Argentine Patagonia), with a particular focus on the physical and hydrodynamic characteristics of the system. Discovered in 1907, the San Jorge Gulf Basin was the first petroleum and gas-producing basin in Argentina. It is also one of the most important areas with real prospects for non-conventional exploitation (shale oil-gas). After characterizing the hydroclimatic background (hydrometeorological parameters and water balance), the book describes the main physical aspects: geomorphology, soils and surface as well as subsoil geology, especially lithology, structures, stratigraphy and hydrogeology.

1. General characterization of the basin, location and socioeconomic context. Main physical features.- 2.Importance of groundwater. The basin from the geographical, geological and geohydrological point of view.- 3. Hidroclimatology. Climatic conditions, water balances and limitations in arid regions. The input function to the geohydrological system.- 4. Regional geology and geomorphology.- 5. The physical component of the hydrological systems . Conversion from the lithoestratigraphical units to the hidrolithological units. Conformation of the System.- 6. Hydrodynamic and hydrochemical components.- 7. Conceptual model of the System.- 8. Local use of groundwater. Its importance in conventional oil development (secondary recovery) and unconventional (shale oil, tight sand oil, shale gas).- 9. Current and future conflicts due to the use of groundwater in the basin. Proper management at the basin level.- 10. Final Remarks and Conclusions.- References.- List of figures.