PRS2030 Non-Conventional Hydrocarbons Exploration

1.1 define non-conventional hydrocarbons and give examples; e.g., oil sands (bitumen), heavy oil, or non-conventional methane deposits (coalbed methane, methane hydrates, tight gas sands, shale gas)

1.2 explain basic theories and/or principles regarding the origins and formation of one or more non-conventional hydrocarbon deposits in Alberta; e.g., theories of origin and formation, surface and subsurface geology, source rock and migration, the difference between porosity and permeability

1.3 identify major geographical areas of Alberta in which bitumen, heavy oil, non-conventional methane and coal deposits are located, and relate these geographic patterns to theories of origin

1.4 compare and contrast physical and chemical characteristics of bitumen, heavy oil, conventional oil and coal

1.5 compare known reserves of non-conventional hydrocarbons to known reserves of other fossil fuels; e.g., in Alberta, in Canada, in the world

1.6 describe the types of reserves (proved, probable and established) and techniques used to estimate Alberta’s recoverable bitumen, heavy oil, non-conventional methane or coal; e.g., volumetric method, materials balance method, production decline curve method

1.7 illustrate surface and subsurface rock structures capable of containing oil sands, heavy oil or coal deposits

1.8 examine and describe current and emerging applications used to locate non-conventional hydrocarbon deposits; e.g., aerial surveys and satellite imagery (3-D scanning; measurement of magnetic fields, gravity and radiation) and other technological applications

1.9 describe the steps taken to gather further information about potential oil- or coal-bearing formations prior to seismic and drilling operations; e.g., first-hand observation of outcrop geology and surface features, review of geological reports and other published papers, use of cuttings and cores

1.10 examine and describe current and emerging theories and applications of seismic technology in the mapping and analysis of potential oil- and coal-bearing formations; e.g., steps taken during seismic exploration, data processing, 2-D and 3-D analysis of sedimentary structures

1.11 examine and describe current and emerging applications of drilling or other exploration technologies in determining the composition of subsurface rock and establishing the presence of non-conventional hydrocarbon deposits; e.g., drill rig components, drilling techniques (directional, horizontal and underbalanced), logging and testing procedures

1.12 explain environmental assessment and management practices conducted by industry throughout exploration operations; e.g., Energy Resources Conservation Board policies and guidelines, water, soil and wildlife impact studies, management plans, reclamation techniques, environmental standards and safe operating procedures

1.13 describe technological advances used to address environmental concerns throughout the exploration process; e.g., seismic technology, horizontal drilling, use of helicopters or packhorses, disposal of drilling fluids and land surface restoration

2.1 explain basic terminology and methodology used in low-depth drilling and core analysis

2.2 predict the extent and grade of an oil sands, heavy oil, methane or coal deposit based on a given assay or sample; e.g., combustibility, sulfur content, toxic chemical content, coal hardness

2.3 explain basic terminology and methodology used in geological log analysis; e.g., wireline logs, seismic logs

2.4 make predictions regarding the extent and grade of an oil sands, a heavy oil or a methane, given sample log data from a bore hole

2.5 describe the hydrocarbon content necessary to make a non-conventional hydrocarbon deposit economically viable; e.g., percentage of bitumen, percentage of methane

3.1 demonstrate fundamental skills to:

3.2 demonstrate personal management skills to:

3.3 demonstrate teamwork skills to:

4.1 recognize then analyze the opportunities and barriers in the immediate environment

4.2 identify potential resources to minimize barriers and maximize opportunities