3-D Quantification of Carbonate Ramp Architectural Variability and Controls, Last Chance Canyon, NM

Abstract

The mixed clastic-carbonate clinoforms of the Permian Upper San Andres formation in Last Chance Canyon (LCC) represent the outcrop analogue of extensive carbonate plays in the Permian Basin. As 2D outcrop it is a popular example of a prograding ramp system. This field-based study integrates hand samples, thin sections, geological measured sections, gamma ray profiles, drone-based LIDAR and photogrammetry into a comprehensive 3D model of the system. While quantifying the 3D variability of facies distribution and depositional geometries, as well as depositional rates within prograding carbonate clinoform system, the goal is to achieve a better understanding of universal process-system relationships in carbonate systems spatially and temporally by delineating the system's external and internal controls and their effect on geological variability and depositional rates. With a better understanding and quantification of geological variability in the system, the final integrated 3D model of LCC can serve as an analogue model for hydrocarbon bearing carbonate systems in the subsurface of the Permian Basin and elsewhere in the world. Moreover, it can be used to improve the accuracy of existing subsurface models for Upper San Andres reservoirs in the Permian Basin. Finally, the integrated 3D model can be used to perform a digital field trip to reduce cost and minimize risks associated with field work. Preliminary work on the carbonate system in LCC reconciles the field measurements and samples with previous sequence stratigraphic interpretations. Thin sections reveal multiple stages of dissolution and cementation in the outcrop rocks that negatively affect pre-existing porosity and permeability. Ongoing work will integrate the field observations with drone-based LIDAR and photogrammetry data to model facies distribution and sediment volume progradation in 3D. The study represents a novel approach to the outcrop-based investigation of carbonate systems by enhancing the existing 2D outcrop information into a comprehensive 3D model. This allows for the quantification of progradation not only as distance over time, but also as sediment volumes deposited in given time intervals. A better understanding of universal process-form relationships and the effect of external controls on facies distribution in carbonate systems furthermore enables the ability to increase the accuracy of existing carbonate reservoir models and to better predict reservoir properties in these systems.

AAPG Datapages/Search and Discovery Article #90259 ©2016 AAPG Annual Convention and Exhibition, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, June 19-22, 2016