--> Abstract: Thermal History and Hydrocarbon Generation in the Surat/Bowen Basin, Northern New South Wales, Australia, by R. Othman; #90925 (1999)

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OTHMAN, RUSHDY, The University of New South Wales, School of Geology, Sydney, Australia

Abstract: Thermal History and Hydrocarbon Generation in the Surat/Bowen Basin, Northern New South Wales, Australia

The object of this study is to generate a three-dimensional model of thermal maturity in the southern Surat/Bowen Basin of eastern Australia, focusing on an area of more than 20,000 km2 in northern New South Wales. The project will use a variety of geochemical and petrological indicators to explain the origin of the maturity pattern in terms of the thermal history and tectonic evolution of the region. The first phase of the study involved an investigation of the stratigraphy and sedimentology of the Permian, Triassic and Jurassic sequences of the basin, concentrating mainly on its potential source and reservoir rocks. A comparative evaluation of several different thermal maturity parameters will be applied. These include vitrinite reflectance, Rock-Eval indices and biomarker isomerization ratios using a gas chromatograph mass spectrometer. An elemental analyzer and electron microprobe will also be used to determine composition of the different kerogen types involved.

Preliminary data have revealed significant anomalies in some of the measured maturity indicators, due to marine incursions and the effect of igneous intrusions. After correction for relevant anomalies, it is intended to develop three-dimensional maturity maps for selected stratigraphic units, which will then be related to basin evolution and structuring with the aid of computer modeling programs. The chemical kinetics of kerogen degradation will further be determined and integrated with other geological and geochemical outcomes for better constraint on the thermal history and to predict the timing and extent of petroleum generation in the region. 

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90925©1999 AAPG Foundation Grants-in-Aid