--> Basin Modeling in Overthrust Areas: Outer Carpathian Nappes (NW Vienna Basin), by H. S. Poelchau, J. Francu, O. Krejci, and P. Muller; #90986 (1994).

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Abstract: Basin Modeling in Overthrust Areas: Outer Carpathian Nappes (NW Vienna Basin)

H. S. Poelchau, J. Francu, O. Krejci, P. Muller

Temperature and basin history simulation in overthrust areas requires careful evaluation of the lithologic and physical properties of the sediments moved by tectonic forces. Temperature anomalies due to overthrusting tend to be ephemeral. However, nappes must be precompacted since their thermal properties have a strong influence on the maturation of the underlying rocks.

Nappe complexes of the Outer Carpathian Flysch and the Inner Carpathians are overlapped by the northern part of the Vienna basin. They were thrust over the southeast margin of the Bohemian Massif in early Miocene burying autochthonous Paleozoic, Jurassic and Tertiary sediments to a depth of several km. We have modeled overthrusting by precompacted Tertiary nappes as well as burial by equivalent sedimentation and have compared the effects on thermal history.

Simulation of basin evolution and thermal history is based on a conceptual model of sedimentation, burial and erosion. The PDI (IES) basin modeling system is used to handle the data on lithology, stratigraphy, nappe events and geothermal conditions and to simulate rate of source-rock maturation and hydrocarbon generation. The conceptual model is calibrated by comparing simulation results with borehole temperatures and organic maturation data.

Basin modeling of this area predicts that some Lower Carboniferous oil could have been generated during a hypothetical Upper Carboniferous burial event. Tertiary nappes increased maturation of both Carboniferous and Jurassic source rocks, the latter becoming an important source of hydrocarbons.

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