The role transformation of soluble organic matter in the process of hydrocarbon generation in mud source rock.

Soluble organic matter (SOM) content, group composition and gas chromatography of mud source rock of the Paleogene ranged 1000 m∼5000 m in Dongying Sag were analyzed. The results show that 3500 m is a conversion boundary for SOM. Under this conversion boundary, SOM has a significant role transformation as in depth less than 3500 m, SOM is the hydrocarbon product but in depth deeper than 3500 m, SOM mainly is the hydrocarbon precursor, and the resins play a major role in hydrocarbon generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]