Abstract: Basin Phases: New Concepts and Methods for Predicting Play Element Timing and Quality

Charles J. Warrner, Emery D. Goodman, K. Biddle

Sedimentary basins are characterized by multiple phases of evolution. Each exerts a fundamental control on the resultant sedimentary fill. New basin analysis concepts and methods are presented which relate the timing, distribution, quality and stacking patterns of exploration play elements (e.g., source, reservoir, seal) to the distinct phase of basin history in which they are deposited. Basin phases are defined as an interval of time in a basin's history characterized by a single mechanism of subsidence (e.g., flexural) and are separated from other phases by changes in subsidence rate and mechanism.

Based on a global study, basin phases are identified for over 250 basins using a simple classification scheme based on the unique combination of three parameters: plate tectonic setting, subsidence mechanism or uplift, and basin geometry. Basin history then, is the sum of these individual phases. This approach divides basins into tectonostratigraphic units deposited under similar tectonic conditions, providing the explorationist with a framework from which to develop process analogs for evaluating play element timing and distribution between basins and subbasins. Implications and applications for hydrocarbon systems analysis and new play development are presented. Examples of how plate tectonic setting and subsidence mechanism type control the relative timing of organic-rich rock depo ition and quality are provided, as are large-scale controls on the distribution of reservoired hydrocarbons. The methods discussed should result in better predictions of play element timing, quality and distribution in under-explored basins and in basins where little data are available.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90986©1994 AAPG Annual Convention, Denver, Colorado, June 12-15, 1994