--> Abstract: Slope Terrains and Their Role in Understanding and Predicting the Distribution and Type of Slope Reservoirs, by Art D. Donovan; #90039 (2005)

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Slope Terrains and Their Role in Understanding and Predicting the Distribution and Type of Slope Reservoirs

Art D. Donovan
BP, Houston, TX

Two fundamental first-order controls (delta position & slope terrain) can be used to explain both the type and distribution of slope reservoir systems (leveed, vs. confined, vs. sheet). Delta position (on axis vs. off axis) controls the dominance of Mass Transport Complex vs. Turbidites which are delivered to the slope. Slope terrains, which are herein termed Simple, Chute, Ponded, and By-pass, are defined by the gradient and rugosity of the slope, as well as the size of the slope channels (gullies vs. canyons). These terrains determine the dominant turbidite reservoir type deposited on the slope.

Simple Slope Terrains have little or no structural controls. Slope channels are free to move laterally across slope of higher relief as Leveed Channel Complexes. Chute Terrains form due to 2-D confinement between salt and shale structures. The structural movement in these areas leads to more moderate relief slopes and the development of confined channel complexes in structural lows. Ponded Terrains form in response to 3-D confinement between salt and shale structures. The structural movement in these areas leads to localized low-relief areas and the development from time to time of sheet complexes in the ponded lows. By-pass Terrains form when a large canyon develops across the slope. These canyons form efficient by-pass systems that move turbidites from the shelf margin to basin floor drastically reducing reservoir potential of the slope.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90039©2005 AAPG Calgary, Alberta, June 16-19, 2005