Jean-Yves Chatellier¹, N. Gil², P. Hernandez², C. Porras², F. Ruiz¹
(1) PDVSA Intevep, Caracus, Venezuela
(2) PDVSA Oriente

Abstract: New structural model for the Santa Barbara Field and Furrial Trend, Norte Monagas, Venezuela

A recent study of the Santa-Barbara Field has focussed on integrating engineering and geology data in order to clarify its complex structure and stratigraphy. the field, located at the western edge of the Furrial trend is the most complex structure found so far in the area. The various stratigraphical inconsistencies and problems revealed by a Multiple Bischke Plot Analysis have been visualized in 3-D and integrated with engineering and production data.

We have thus unraveled three types of structural elements, never described before in the area:

1. A series of important planar low angle reverse faults has dissected the sedimentary sequence, all of these faults have a N30º strike, are parallel to each other and are associated with movement from the Urica Fault system.
2. Very extensive horizontal detachment planes have been identified in Santa Barbara as well as in other field of the Furrial Trend.
3. Isoclinal recumbent folds at various scales whose existence has been corroborated by dipmeter, RFT, production and pressure data as well as sedimentology.

The incorporation of the above new structural features gives a much simpler view of Santa Barbara Field and of the area. All of the stratigraphic anomalies previously interpreted as missing sections due to normal faulting are now understood in terms of detachments, folds and reverse faults, a series of features expected in this essentially compressional regime.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90914©2000 AAPG Annual Convention, New Orleans, Louisiana