Abstract: Integrated Remote Sensing and Structural Geology to Define Complex Fold-and-Thrust Belt Structures

Bilotti, Frank D. - Texaco E&P; Shaw, John H. - Harvard University; Brennan, Peter A. - Texaco E&P; Connors, Christopher D. - Texaco Exploration Division; Prelat, Alfredo E. - Texaco E&P

Diagnostic patterns of faults and related folds at the Earth's surface can reveal complex subsurface structural geometries in fold-and-thrust belts. We present methods for interpreting these structural patterns by integrating stereoscopic remote-sensing images with seismic reflection data. We present examples from around the world that use stereoscopic Landsat TM, SPOT, and airborne hyperspectral images to measure bedding attitudes and map faults. These surface data are integrated with seismic reflection profiles to generate balanced geologic cross sections and three-dimensional structural models using fault-related folding techniques. Bedding attitudes derived from stereoscopic imagery can be used to define kink-bands - or regions of homogeneous dip. Fault-related folding theory describes the relationship between kink-bands and underlying structural geometries, including fault shapes. In imbricate thrust sequences, refolding of overlying faults and strata by deeper faults produces shallow folds with multiple dip domains. We interpret these multiple dip domains with stereoscopic imagery combined with seismic reflection data to identify imbricate structures that commonly provide large fold closures and sub-thrust structural hydrocarbon traps.

Our integrated approach to structural analysis allows for better definition of complex structures and is cost-efficient for petroleum exploration. Surface attitude data can be used to constrain structural traps in places where seismic reflection data quality is poor or widely spaced, thus limiting the amount of additional seismic data that needs to be acquired.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90933©1998 ABGP/AAPG International Conference and Exhibition, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil