--> Abstract: Modelling Tectono-Sedimentary Processes in Atlantic Margin Salt Basins: Understanding the Evolution of the Deepwater Slope and; #90063 (2007)

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Modelling Tectono-Sedimentary Processes in Atlantic Margin Salt Basins: Understanding the Evolution of the Deepwater Slope and Allochthonous Salt Sheets

 

Adam, Juergen1, Csaba Krezsek1, Cody MacDonald1, Clarke Campbell1, Djordje Grujic1 (1) Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS

 

Atlantic margin basins exhibit extensive thin-skinned extension over salt. The tectono-stratigraphic evolution of the shelf, slope and deepwater areas are gravity-driven, which causes feedbacks between sedimentation, faulting and salt mobilisation. Petroleum exploration in the these dynamic depositional environments, especially in the deepwater with limited well control and poor seismic imaging due to complex salt diapirs, canopies and sheets remains challenging. 4D physical modelling with optical deformation monitoring and 2D/3D seismic interpretation simulates passive margin salt basin evolution and allows the quantitative assessment the role of sedimentation and pre-salt basement topography on the timing and mechanisms of faulting, sedimentation and salt mobilization from the shelf to the deepwater extension. Our results show that basin evolution is strongly controlled by pre-salt basement topography and sedimentation. The experiments reproduce complex salt basin structures including growth fault/roller structures, reactive and active diapirs, turtle structures, canopies, and allochthonous salt nappes. The results show that the evolution of the shelf and slope depo-centers are characterized by highly variable and localized subsidence patterns and are linked spatially and temporally with deepwater toe fold-belts, inflated salt complexes and allochthoneous salt sheets. New mechanical concepts and interpretation templates derived from integrated 4D physical simulations with 2D/3D structural and seismic tools will lead to a new generation of improved interpretation templates for salt-related structures and depositional systems in Atlantic margin basins. Knowledge gained from the study will be especially relevant for exploration in the slope and deepwater domains.

 

AAPG Search and Discover Article #90063©2007 AAPG Annual Convention, Long Beach, California