--> Abstract: Investigation of Factors Affecting Hydrocarbon Potential of Scotian Shelf, Offshore Eastern Canada, by S. G. Franks; #90968 (1977).

Datapages, Inc.Print this page

Abstract: Investigation of Factors Affecting Hydrocarbon Potential of Scotian Shelf, Offshore Eastern Canada

S. G. Franks

The Scotian Shelf is one of the most intensely explored offshore basins of eastern North America, but the search for hydrocarbons has met with little success. Analysis of the source-rock quality, structural history, and thermal evolution of the Scotian basin indicates why this area has been so unproductive.

1. Sediments of the Scotian basin are poor source rocks. Of the samples examined (ranging in age from Early Jurassic to Late Cretaceous), 93% were classified as poor source rocks.

2. Over at least half of the Scotian Shelf, temperatures (present and past) were too low for significant hydrocarbon generation. Depth to maximum hydrocarbon-generating temperatures exceeds depth to economic basement over much of the shelf.

3. Most major structures postdate or were reactivated after the time of potential maximum hydrocarbon generation.

4. Potential traps may be poorly sealed because of the very high percentage of massive, porous sandstones in the basin, particularly in the section overlying probable source rocks.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90968©1977 AAPG-SEPM Annual Convention and Exhibition, Washington, DC