Abstract: Percentage Estimate of Discoverable Reserves and Thickness of Sediments Under Seafloor

W. C. Krueger, Jr.

An estimate of the percentages of hydrocarbon reserves under the world's oceans was calculated as shore to 200 m, 65; 200 to 2,500 m, 30; 2,500 m to full continental margin, 4; deep ocean seabed, 1.

It can be seen readily that the major hydrocarbon reserves, whatever amount, will be found shallower than 2,500 m or 7,000 ft of water depth, a depth comparable to 200 mi (320 km) from shore. Other estimates were made based on various water depths and distance from shore, but all are variations of the preceding.

The thickness of sediment within the oceans is obviously a most important and influential part of the study. Based on seismic-reflection data taken in the oceans, an estimate of sediment thickness was calculated. Areas of thin sedimentation are deep-ocean beds and continental rises, in contrast to shelf areas of exceedingly thick sedimentation. Percentage wise, the Atlantic Ocean contains more areas of thick sediment than the Pacific. This difference reflects the magnitude of the continental provenance and oceanic area. The thickness of onshore depostional areas is comparable to the offshore.

Based on probable Law-of-The-Sea agreements of 200 mi (320 km) state jurisdiction, most of the future hydrocarbon reserves will belong to the coastal states. Very little will accrue to an international governing body.

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