--> ABSTRACT: Sequence Architecture and Hydrocarbon Potential of the Phu Khanh Basin Offshore Central Vietnam, South China Sea, by G. H. Lee and J. S. Watkins; #91021 (2010)

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Sequence Architecture and Hydrocarbon Potential of the Phu Khanh Basin Offshore Central Vietnam, South China Sea

LEE, GWANG H., and JOEL S. WATKINS

The Phu Khanh Basin offshore central Vietnam is the only untested basin on the Vietnam margin of the South China Sea. Analysis of over 1,600 km of multi-channel seismic reflection data indicates that the Phu Khanh Basin follows a typical rift-margin development: faulted basement, synrift sedimentation, a breakup unconformity, and postrift sedimentation.

Postrift sedimentation consists of a transgressive phase characterized by ramp-like depositional geometries followed by a regressive phase characterized by prograding sequences. During the transgressive phase rising sea level provided favorable conditions for carbonate buildup development. The regressive interval contains a number of third-order depositional sequences composed of seismically resolvable lowstand, highstand, and rarely, transgressive systems tracts.

Principal source rocks are believed to be synrift lacustrine sediments deposited in graben and half-graben lakes. In the postrift section, the ramp transgressive interval and starved, basinward portion of transgressive and highstand systems tracts within the regressive interval may have source rock potential. Carbonate complexes, fractured/weathered basement, coastal sands, and basinfloor fans probably have good reservoir quality. Potential traps include carbonate complexes, basement hills, anticlines, fault traps, and coastal sand traps. Hydrocarbon indicators such as flat spots, bright spots, and gas chimneys with seeps on the seafloor occur at a number of locations.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91021©1997 AAPG Annual Convention, Dallas, Texas.