--> ABSTRACT: Neogene Sequence Stratigraphy, Nam Con Son Basin, Offshore Vietnam, by Kenneth J. McMillen, Lee E.-K. Do Van Luu, and Pedco Hong S. S.; #91019 (1996)

Datapages, Inc.Print this page

Neogene Sequence Stratigraphy, Nam Con Son Basin, Offshore Vietnam

Kenneth J. McMillen, Lee E.-K. Do Van Luu, and Pedco Hong S. S.

An integrated well log, biostratigraphic, and seismic stratigraphic study of Miocene to Recent deltaic sediments deposited in the Nam Con Son Basin offshore from southern Vietnam shows the influence of eustacy and tectonics on sequence development. Sediments consist of Oligocene non-marine rift-basin fill (Cau Formation), early to middle Miocene tide-dominated delta plain to delta front sediments (TB 1.5 to TB 2.5, Dua and Thong Formations), and late Miocene to Recent marine shelf sediments (TB. 2.6 to TB 3.10, Mang Cau, Nam Con Son, and Bien Dong Formations).

Eustacy controlled the timing of key surfaces and sand distribution in the tectonically-quiet early Miocene. Tectonic effects on middle to late Miocene sequence development consist of thick transgressive systems tracts due to basin-wide subsidence and transgression, sand distribution in the basin center, and carbonate sedimentation on isolated fault blocks within the basin.

Third-order sequence boundaries (SB) are identified by spore peaks, sand stacking patterns, and channel incision. In the basin center, widespread shale beds with coal occur above sequence boundaries followed by transgressive sandstone units. These TST sandstones merge toward the basin margin where they lie on older HST sandstones. Maximum flooding surfaces (MFS) have abundant marine microfossils and mangrove pollen, a change in sand stacking pattern, and often a strong seismic reflection with downlap.

Fourth-order genetic-type sequences are also interpreted. The MFS is the easiest marker to identify and correlate on well logs. Fourth-order SB occur within these genetic units but are harder to identify and correlate.

AAPG Search and Discover Article #91019©1996 AAPG Convention and Exhibition 19-22 May 1996, San Diego, California