Seismic stratigraphic framework and depositional sequences in the Santos Basin,Brazil

The Santos Basin, situated offshore southern Brazil, is one of nine marginal rift basins in the equatorial South Atlantic. It formed by the collapse of a thermal dome in the late Jurassic and by subsequent rifting and opening of the South Atlantic in the early Cretaceous. Rifting was accompanied by immense volcanic outpouring seen at the surface today throughout the onshore Paraná Basin and thought to underlie the entire Santos Basin, and the adjacent São Paulo Plateau. Vulcanism was followed by subsidence of up to 10 km from Aptian to Recent time, and a coastal hingeline coincides with the Serra do Mar uplift. The basin depocentre, which is 700 km long, is bounded to the north and south by basement and volcanic highs, respectively. A restricted water circulation in the ocean basin, which prevailed up to the Santonian stage, has important repercussions for the hydrocarbon potential of the area. The nine genetically related basins have collective reserves of ≈ 5 billion barrels of oil and associated gas. A stratigraphic framework, based largely on seismic data, has been erected for the Santos Basin. Seven regional unconformities, or ‘R’ reflections, can be traced throughout the basin and form the boundaries for seismic sequences. Isopaching the seismic sequences defines the principal depositional units in the basin and also shows how the basin depocentre shifted with time. Limited well control has enabled the seismic sequences to be correlated with litho-environmental sequences which more fully reflect the geological evolution and provide a working exploration model. Finally, an attempt has been made to recognize and map seismic facies within the seismic sequences and to predict the lithofacies in areas away from well control     

Preliminary research on CBM enrichment models of low-rank coal and its geological controls: A case study in the middle of the southern Junggar Basin,NW China

To date, prospecting work on low-rank coalbed methane (CBM) resources in the middle of the southern Junggar Basin is still in the primary stage, and only a few CBM exploration wells or pilot wells have been deployed in local regions. Systemic understanding of CBM reservoir-forming conditions and geological controlling factors is lacking in the study area, resulting in the mismatch between CBM well deployment and actual geological conditions, as well as poor exploration efficiency. In this paper, the geological controlling effects of the structure, sedimentation, and hydrogeology on CBM enrichment are systematically discussed for the first time, based on the early CBM exploration achievements. The results show that the Xishanyao coal and the Badaowan coal are developed in the upper and lower part of the neutral surface of a fold, respectively. The reservoir-forming conditions of the Badaowan coal are not discussed in this paper due to its poor development. The Xishanyao coal that developed in the axial part of the syncline is most beneficial to CBM enrichment with concentrated extrusion stress and great methane adsorption capacity, while the axial part of the anticline is not favorable for CBM preservation with large tensional stress. The gas content of the Xishanyao thick seams developed in the syncline is higher (average of 4.63–6.34 m³/t) than that in the monocline (average of 2.84–4.56 m³/t). Reverse faulting is more beneficial to CBM enrichment than normal faulting, due to the better sealing capability. The gas content of the Xishanyao coal is obviously influenced by the coal thickness and its roof lithology. The hydrodynamic conditions and total dissolved solids (TDS) values of coalbed water range greatly on regional scale, which leads to a deeper methane weathering zone in the middle-west areas (>1119.62 m) than the eastern Liu-huanggou areas (<501.71 m) and have an important influence on exploration target optimization of CBM exploration wells. Combined with the geological characteristics of the structure, sedimentation and hydrogeology, three CBM enrichment models are proposed in this paper (i.e., broad fold model, northward monocline model and overlying composite model). The reservoir-forming processes and development positions of these CBM enrichment models are discussed systematically to provide a scientific basis for selecting CBM exploration target zones.     

Seismic architecture and seismic geomorphology of heterozoan carbonates: Eocene-Oligocene,Browse Basin,Northwest Shelf,Australia

Seismic characterization of Eocene-Oligocene heterozoan carbonate strata from the Browse Basin, Northwest Shelf of Australia, defines marked progradation of nearly 10 km. Stratal terminations and stacking subdivide the succession into mappable seismic units. Stratal architecture and seismic geomorphology varies systematically through the succession.Individual surfaces, discerned by toplap, onlap, and truncation, outline sigmoidal to tangential oblique clinoforms with heights of ranging from 350 to 650 m and maximum gradients between 8 and 18°. Sigmoidal clinoforms can include aggradation in excess of ∼200 m, prograde more than 500 m, and have slopes characterized by inclined, wavy to discontinuous reflectors that represent ubiquitous gullies and channels. In contrast, the overlying tangential oblique clinoforms include downstepped shelf margins, limited on-shelf aggradation (<100 m) and toplap, subdued progradation (<500 m), and continuous parallel inclined reflectors on the slope. Wedges of basinally restricted reflectors at toe of slope onlap surfaces of pronounced erosional truncation or syndepositional structural modification. The succession includes repeated patterns of seismic units that onlap, aggrade, and prograde, interpreted to represent sequence sets and composite sequences.The associations of shelf aggradation, shelf-margin progradation, and slope channeling within sigmoidal seismic units and the less marked progradation and channeling within tangential oblique seismic units contrast with the classic sequence model in which sediment delivery to the slope and pronounced progradation is favored by limited shelf accommodation. This distinct divergence is interpreted to reflect the prolific heterozoan production across the shelf during periods of rising and high base level when the shelf is flooded, perhaps enhanced by downwelling. Comparison with purely photozoan systems reveals similarities and contrasts in seismic stratigraphic heterogeneity and architecture, interpreted to be driven by distinct characteristics of heterozoan sedimentary systems.     

A seismic geomorphology study of the fluvial and lacustrine-delta facies of the Cretaceous Quantou-Nenjiang Formations in Songliao Basin,China

With the aid of seismic geomorphology method, depositional systems such as fluvial-delta and turbidity current of the Cretaceous Quantou-Nenjiang Formations in Sangliao Basin were studied in detail as well as the morphology, dimension, depositional structures and boundaries of these sedimentary bodies. A geological model of a point bar in a fluvial system and the method to identify paleocurrent direction were proposed. The delta of Yaojia Formation with a gentle slope less than 1.4‰ in trangressive system tract (TST) was controlled by lake waves. Subaqueous distributary channels were widely developed in large-scale delta front with a width more than 16 km. Fluvial-dominated deltas with leaf and bird's foot shapes were widespread in highstand system tract (HST) of Qinshankou and Nengjiang Formation with moderately high slope gradients of 4‰ and 6.7‰.The width of the leaf-like and bird's foot delta front ranges from 1 km to 4 km and 3 km–5 km respectively. The mouth bar were well preserved due to the poorly developed widely distributed subaqueous distributary channels and the delta plains having widths of 9 km–15 km, 16 km-25 km respectively. Many turbidity current systems were recognized in the TST of the first member of Nengjiang Formation and the distribution area is about 10,000 km². Fourteen sublacustrine fans with different dimension were formed by ten fluvial-delta systems extending 30 km–70 km toward the lake from the west and south. With the application of seismic geomorphology, the analysis of fluvial system, delta system and turbidity current system could switch from approximation to quantitative analysis. Sedimentary model proposed for point bars and the quantitative analysis of delta system could provide new technical support for exploration and drilling plan. The research on turbidity current systems will also be beneficial for new exploration targets.     

琼东南盆地深水区新近系海底扇沉积特征与资源潜力

综合利用钻井、岩心、薄片及分析化验资料研究了琼东南盆地深水区新近系海底扇沉积特征,并利用最新的三维地震资料,通过井震精细标定、多属性融合技术、方差体切片、三维地貌砂体镂空等综合技术手段,精细刻画了海底扇砂体的空间分布特征。研究结果表明,深水区新近系海底扇是由陆架区的砂体滑塌并二次搬运形成,形成过程具有多期次性。受不同物源的影响,海底扇岩性和物性存在较大的差异。海底扇岩性及沉积构造具有砂质滑塌、碎屑流、浊流和深水底流改造的特征。海底扇的沉积微相、厚度、砂泥比和砂泥岩空间配置关系直接控制了地震振幅反射强度和频率的变化。砂体纵向叠置,横向连片,并被后期泥质水道切割分块形成多个岩性圈闭。综合分析认为,深水区海底扇砂体发育区烃源条件优越,储盖配置关系和圈闭条件良好,具备形成大中型岩性油气藏的有利条件,具有较大的油气勘探潜力。     

辽西凸起南段沙河街组双向物源沉积模式及油气勘探意义

古近系储层发育程度一直是制约辽西凸起南段勘探突破的关键因素。运用钻井地质、磷灰石裂变径迹分析、三维地震等基础资料,针对辽西凸起南段沙河街组储层发育问题,开展精细古热史-构造演化分析、古地貌半定量刻画,对目标区沙河街组储层进行预测,结果表明：辽西凸起南段主要经历了新生代早期构造抬升、古近纪沙河街组沉积期构造沉降、东营组沉积期构造反转和新近纪构造定型4个演化时期;断裂体系可划分为长期活动型、早断早衰型、晚断晚衰型3种断裂类型;辽西凹陷具有“盆满砂溢”的先天供源条件,构造演化的分段性特征又造成辽西凸起南段形成了特殊的“链状岛湾”沉积地貌,既可以为围区提供物源,形成近源沉积体,又可以形成较大的可容纳空间,汇聚来自于辽西凹陷满溢的砂体,在辽西凸起上形成了双向供源沉积模式。以上认识推动了旅大4-3油田的油气勘探评价,且对凸起围区的油气勘探具有较好的借鉴意义。     

The origin and charging directions of Neogene biodegraded oils: A geochemical study of large oil fields in the middle of the Shijiutuo Uplift,Bohai Sea,China

Two large oil fields (QHD32-6 and QHD33-1), located in the middle part of the Shijiutuo Uplift, have generally suffered mild biodegradation. Based on multivariate statistical analysis of the biomarker parameters, this study discussed the origin and charging directions for these two oil fields.In contrast to Ed₃-derived oil, all available oil samples from these two large oil fields displayed low C₁₉/C₂₃, C₂₄/C₂₆ and high G/H and 4-MSI, which are attributed to the mixtures of oils derived from the Shahejie (Es₁ and Es₃) source rocks. Oils in QHD32-6, which contain relatively more Es₃-derived oil, are called Group I oils, and most oils in QHD33-1, which share relatively more Es₁-derived oil, are called Group II oils. Our mixed oil experiments reveal the predominant Es₃- and Es₁-derived oil contribution for Group I and Group II oil groups, respectively; however, the selection of end member oils warrants further research.Based on comparisons of biomarker parameters, the QHD32-6 oil field was mainly charged in the north by oil generated from Shahejie formation source rocks in the Bozhong depression. However, oils from the north of QHD32-6 field display a remarkable difference to the oils in the south of this field, which may indicate that a charging pathway exists from the QHD33-1 field. Considering the variations in biomarker compositions in the west to -east and northwest to -southeast sections across the QHD33-1 and QHD32-6 oil fields, it can be deduced that Es₃-sourced oil migrated westward to the QHD32-6 traps, and then charging by Es₁ oil from the Bozhong Sag resulted in the QHD33-1 oil field being characterized by the mixture of Es₃- and Es₁-sourced oil. Moreover, migration of Es₁-derived oil from the Qinnan Sag was not identified, implying that the QHD33-1 oil field is mainly charged from the northeast of the Bozhong Sag.     

A unique lacustrine mixed dolomitic-clastic sequence for tight oil reservoir within the middle Permian Lucaogou Formation of the Junggar Basin,NW China: Reservoir characteristics and origin

The middle Permian Lucaogou Formation in the Jimusaer Sag of the southeastern Junggar Basin, NW China, was the site of a recent discovery of a giant tight oil reservoir. This reservoir is unusual as it is hosted by lacustrine mixed dolomitic-clastic rocks, significantly differing from other tight reservoirs that are generally hosted by marine/lacustrine siliciclastic–calcitic sequences. Here, we improve our understanding of this relatively new type of tight oil reservoir by presenting the results of a preliminarily investigation into the basic characteristics and origin of this reservoir using field, petrological, geophysical (including seismic and logging), and geochemical data. Field and well core observations indicate that the Lucaogou Formation is a sequence of mixed carbonate (mainly dolomites) and terrigenous clastic (mainly feldspars) sediments that were deposited in a highly saline environment. The formation is divided into upper and lower cycles based on lithological variations between coarse- and fine-grained rocks; in particular, dolomites and siltstones are interbedded with organic-rich mudstones in the lower part of each cycle, whereas the upper part of each cycle contains few dolomites and siltstones. Tight oil accumulations are generally present in the lower part of each cycle, and dolomites and dolomite-bearing rocks are the main reservoir rocks in these cycles, including sandy dolomite, dolarenite, dolomicrite, and a few dolomitic siltstones. Optical microscope, back scattered electron, and scanning electron microscope imaging indicate that the main oil reservoir spaces are secondary pores that were generated by the dissolution of clastics and dolomite by highly acidic and corrosive hydrocarbon-related fluids.     

Geomorphology and sedimentary sequence evolution during the buried stage of paleo-uplift in the Lower Cretaceous Qingshuihe Formation,Junggar Basin,northwestern China: Implications for reservoir lithofacies and hydrocarbon distribution

The evolution of large-scale paleo-uplifts within sedimentary basins controls the sedimentary provenance, depositional systems and hydrocarbon distributions. This study aims to unravel changes in paleo-geomorphology, interpret sedimentary sequence evolution, and investigate favourable reservoir types and the hydrocarbon distribution during the buried stage of a long-term eroded paleo-uplift, taking the Lower Cretaceous Qingshuihe Formation (K₁q) in the Junggar Basin as an example. These research topics have rarely been studied or are poorly understood. This study integrates current drilling production data with outcrop and core analyses, drilling well logs, 3D seismic data interpretations, grading data, physical property comparisons and identified hydrocarbon distributions.After more than 20 million years of differential river erosion and weathering in arid conditions, the large-scale Chemo paleo-uplift within the hinterland area of the basin formed a distinctive valley–monadnock paleo-geomorphology prior to the deposition of K₁q. Since the Early Cretaceous, tectonic subsidence and humid conditions have caused the base level (lake level) to rise, leading to backfilling of valleys and burial processes. Two systems tracts in the target strata of K₁q, consisting of distinctive depositional systems, can be identified: (1) a lowstand systems tract (LST), which is confined within incised valleys and is mainly composed of gravelly braided rivers and rarely occurring debris flows and (2) an extensive transgressive systems tract (TST), which developed into an almost flat landform and consists of braided river delta to lacustrine depositional systems. Overall, the physical properties of braided river reservoirs in the LST are better than those of the braided river delta reservoirs in the TST. However, the inhomogeneous distributions of carbonate cements cause differences in the physical properties of conglomerate reservoirs in the LST. However, for sandstones in both the LST and TST, coarser grain sizes and better sorting result in better physical properties. Altogether, four types of reservoir can be identified in the study area: Jurassic inner monadnock reservoirs, K₁q LST stratigraphic onlap reservoirs, LST structural reservoirs and TST structural reservoirs.     

Three-dimensional facies architecture analysis using sequence stratigraphy and seismic sedimentology: Example from the Paleogene Dongying Formation in the BZ3-1 block of the Bozhong Sag,Bohai Bay Basin,China

The Bohai Bay Basin is a classic non-marine rift basin in eastern China. The Paleogene Dongying sequences are the main hydrocarbon-bearing stratigraphic unit in the basin. Using three-dimensional (3-D) seismic data and one well control in the BZ3-1 Block in the western slope of the Bozhong Sag, we analyzed 3-D facies architectures of the Dongying sequences. The Dongying Formation, a second-order sequence, can be subdivided into four third-order sequences (from base to top: SQ1, SQ2, SQ3, and SQ4). The facies architecture was analyzed by using the seismic sedimentology approach based on 3-D seismic data. Sediment of the Dongying sequences was derived from the northern Shijiutuo Uplift via four major configurations of incised valleys, namely “V”, “U”, “W”, and composite shaped incised valleys. Seismic stratal slices reveal branching and converging characteristics of the channels from upstream to downstream. On the basis of an integrated analysis of well log, core data, seismic facies based on multi-seismic attributes, three sedimentary facies (e.g., “delta”, “fan-delta”, and “shore” or “shallow lacustrine” facies) have been recognized. The four types of incised valleys and their evolution control the sedimentary systems in the sedimentation area. The numbers and sizes of the fans are controlled by the sedimentary systems at various scales. Incised valley-fill and deltaic sand bodies are excellent hydrocarbon reservoirs and potentially good exploration targets for the study area. The reservoir quality of sequences SQ1, SQ2, and SQ3 become better gradually from base to top. The proposed sediment dispersal patterns may aid in the prediction of potential reservoir distribution. This study also demonstrates that facies architecture analysis using sequence stratigraphy and seismic sedimentology may serve as an effective approach for constructing 3D facies models for petroleum exploration in areas lacking of well or outcrop data.     

Seismic evidence and formation mechanism of gas hydrates in the Zhongjiannan Basin,Western margin of the South China Sea

An analysis of 3D seismic data from the Zhongjiannan Basin in the western margin of the South China Sea (SCS) reveals seismic evidence of gas hydrates and associated gases, including pockmarks, a bottom simulating reflector (BSR), enhanced reflection (ER), reverse polarity reflection (RPR), and a dim amplitude zone (DAZ). The BSR mainly surrounds Zhongjian Island, covering an area of 350 km² in this 3D survey area. The BSR area and pockmark area do not match each other; where there is a pockmark developed, there is no BSR. The gas hydrate layer builds upward from the base of the stability zone with a thickness of less than 100 m. A mature pockmark usually consists of an outside trough, a middle ridge, and one or more central pits, with a diameter of several kilometers and a depth of several hundreds of meters. The process of pockmark creation entails methane consumption. Dense faults in the study area efficiently transport fluid from large depths to the shallow layer, supporting the formation of gas hydrate and ultimately the pockmark.     

Seismic geomorphology,architecture and genesis of Miocene shelf sand ridges in the Pearl River Mouth Basin,northern South China Sea

Multiple stages of large-scale shelf sand ridges, including the shoreface-attached and the offshore types, have developed in the Miocene successions on the mid-shelf region of the Pear River Mouth Basin, northern South China Sea. Utilizing a high-quality 3D seismic data set, accompanying 2D seismic profiles and well logs, the morphology, architecture and genesis of these shelf sand ridges have been systematically investigated in this study. The ridges are of very large scale, with the largest one having a maximum height of 64 m, a width of more than 20 km and a length of 37 km within the 3D survey area. Being mound-shaped, they also display obvious asymmetry character, with the ridge crest preferentially located on the SE side. Three main internal components, including the ridge front, central ridge and the ridge tail, have been recognized through careful anatomy analysis of the two most well-imaged ridges, each displaying distinct expressions on seismic amplitudes and geometries. In the plan view, most of the shelf sand ridges are generally NE–SW oriented and widening to the SW direction. Scouring features can also be clearly observed along the SW direction, including scour depressions and linear sandy remnants. On well logs, the shelf sand ridges are represented by an overall coarsening-upward pattern. Intervals with blocky sandstones are preferentially present on higher locations due to a differential winnowing process controlled by shelf topography.Plenty of evidence indicates that these ridges were primarily formed by the reworking of forced regressive or lowstand deltaic deposits under a persistent southwesterly flowing current during the subsequent transgression. This very current is a composite one, which is speculated to consist of winter oceanic current, SCSBK (South China Sea Branch of Kuroshio) intrusion onto the shelf and internal waves propagating from the Luzon Strait. Tidal currents might have contributed to the SE growth of the ridge. In response to the reglaciation of Antarctic ice-sheet and the closure of Pacific-Indian ocean seaway in the middle Miocene, the intensification of the North Pacific western boundary current was considered to have potential links to the initiation of the shelf sand ridges at ∼12 Ma. The development of shelf ridges was terminated and replaced by rapid deltaic progradation at ∼5.5 Ma.     

A new possible giant hydrocarbon generated formation: The Upper Triassic source rock in Southwestern Junggar Basin,NW China

The Triassic formation is a possible new giant hydrocarbon generated formation in Northwest China and Mid-Asia. Taking the Upper Triassic formation in the Sikeshu Sag in Junggar Basin as an example, based on the comprehensive analysis on the geochemical characteristics of the cores and the dark mudstone of the outcrops and reservoir formation conditions, we have evaluated the Upper Triassic source rocks by comparing with those in the Ulungu Depression, and reached the following findings. Firstly, the Upper Triassic formation is mainly composed of dark mudstone and sandy mudstone deposits, and the hydrocarbon source rock is mainly distributed in the middle and upper parts with a thickness range of 100–150 m and area of 3500 km². Secondly, the source rock, moderate in organic matter abundance (with TOC range of 1%–3%), has the material basis for hydrocarbon generation. Thirdly, the organic matter has high percentage of sapropelinite, and is dominated by type II₂. Fourthly, the degree of the thermal evolution is moderate, and the source rock with R_o higher than 0.7% has a distribution area of about 1800 km², providing the conditions of massive hydrocarbon generation. Fifthly, the source rock has great burial depth and wide distribution; the source rock with a R_o of higher than 0.7% and thickness of more than 100 m has an area of around 1400 km², implying huge resource potential. Sixthly, the next step exploration should focus on highly mature hydrocarbon generation central area in the Upper Triassic - Lower Jurassic in the east of the sag to search for and confirm favorable traps. The research findings have important reference value for promoting the resource status of, deepening the understanding of reservoir formation, and clarifying the exploration direction in the Sikeshu Sag and other periphery Mid-Asia areas.     

Contrasting Pliocene fluvial depositional systems within the rapidly subsiding South Caspian Basin; a case study of the palaeo-Volga and palaeo-Kura river systems in the Surakhany Suite,Upper Productive Series,onshore Azerbaijan

The South Caspian Basin contains major hydrocarbon reservoirs within the largely Early Pliocene Productive Series. This paper describes and contrasts outcrops of the uppermost ∼500 m of the series (the Surakhany Suite) deposited by two of the main fluvial systems that supplied the Azeri margin of the basin. Sedimentary facies and, for the first time from the Productive Series, palynological analyses document fluvial channel belt complexes, sheetflood overbank and flood plain to flood plain lake environments. The Productive Series on the Apsheron Peninsula, Azerbaijan, was supplied predominantly from the north by the palaeo-Volga river system. It displays an overall fining-upward trend, such that the Surakhany Suite at Lokbatan is dominated by mudstone. Siltstone and coarser-grained sediments make up 28% of the section. Channel bodies are on average 1.5 m thick and form 13% of the succession. In the sub-surface of the Apsheron Peninsula, ratty wireline log responses also indicate that siltstone and sandstone bodies are predominantly thin bedded, with SP-derived net-to-gross sand ratios of ∼0.35–0.40. The succession in the Kura Basin was sourced predominantly from the west by the palaeo-Kura river system. It displays a coarsening-upward trend, such that in the middle and upper Surakhany Suite at Babazanan siltstone and coarser sediments make up 52% of the section. It is characterised by numerous stacked and laterally continuous channel sandstone bodies that are on average 5.8 m thick and comprise 42% of the outcrop. In the sub-surface of the Kura Basin, wireline log responses of the Surakhany Suite have a blocky character and indicate SP-derived net-to-gross sand ratios of 0.26–0.38. These values are similar to calculated sandstone volumes at outcrop (44%). The palynological data, including multivariate analyses, show that the main controls on palynomorph distribution are the degree of fluvial or lacustrine influence, subaerial exposure and salinity. Despite their more lithic nature, Surakhany Suite sandstones derived from the palaeo-Kura river system along the Kurovdag-Babazanan-Neftchala trend have similar or better petrophysical properties than those derived from the palaeo-Volga river on the Apsheron Peninsula and its offshore continuation. This is probably due to their coarser-grain size. This, combined with their greater sandstone body thickness, would suggest that the axis of the Kura Basin forms the most promising part of the Azeri sector of the South Caspian Basin for exploration within the uppermost part of the Productive Series.     

Distribution characteristics of delta reservoirs reshaped by bottom currents: A case study from the second member of the Yinggehai Formation in the DF1-1 gas field,Yinggehai Basin,South China Sea

The Dongfang1-1 gas field (DF1-1) in the Yinggehai Basin is currently the largest offshore self-developed gas field in China and is rich in oil and gas resources. The second member of the Pliocene Yinggehai Formation (YGHF) is the main gas-producing formation and is composed of various sedimentary types; however, a clear understanding of the sedimentary types and development patterns is lacking. Here, typical lithofacies, logging facies and seismic facies types and characteristics of the YGHF are identified based on high-precision 3D seismic data combined with drilling, logging, analysis and testing data. Based on 3D seismic interpretation and attribute analysis, the origin of high-amplitude reflections is clarified, and the main types and evolution characteristics of sedimentary facies are identified. Taking gas formation upper II (IIU) as an example, the plane distribution of the delta front and bottom current channel is determined; finally, a comprehensive sedimentary model of the YGHF second member is established. This second member is a shallowly buried “bright spot” gas reservoir with weak compaction. The velocity of sandstone is slightly lower than that of mudstone, and the reflection has medium amplitude when there is no gas. The velocity of sandstone decreases considerably after gas accumulation, resulting in an increase in the wave impedance difference and high-amplitude (bright spot) reflection between sandstone and mudstone; the range of high amplitudes is consistent with that of gas-bearing traps. The distribution of gas reservoirs is obviously controlled by dome-shaped diapir structural traps, and diapir faults are channels through which natural gas from underlying Miocene source rocks can enter traps. The study area is a delta front deposit developed on a shallow sea shelf. The lithologies of the reservoir are mainly composed of very fine sand and coarse silt, and a variety of sedimentary structural types reflect a shallow sea delta environment; upward thickening funnel type, strong toothed bell type and toothed funnel type logging facies are developed. In total, 4 stages of delta front sand bodies (corresponding to progradational reflection seismic facies) derived from the Red River and Blue River in Vietnam have developed in the second member of the YGHF; these sand bodies are dated to 1.5 Ma and correspond to four gas formations. During sedimentation, many bottom current channels (corresponding to channel fill seismic facies) formed, which interacted with the superposed progradational reflections. When the provenance supply was strong in the northwest, the area was dominated by a large set of delta front deposits. In the period of relative sea level rise, surface bottom currents parallel to the coastline were dominant, and undercutting erosion was obvious, forming multistage superimposed erosion troughs. Three large bottom current channels that developed in the late sedimentary period of gas formation IIU are the most typical.     

北部湾盆地海中凹陷流二段沉积体系及沉积模式

北部湾盆地北部涠西南凹陷多口钻井已获得高产油气流系列突破,其主力烃源岩层系为始新统流沙港组二段（流二段）,但紧邻南侧的海中凹陷目前暂无商业油气发现。流二段既发育有深湖—半深湖相的烃源岩,同时在主力烃源岩段也发育有湖底扇储层,因此,研究海中凹陷潜在生烃层系（烃源岩、湖底扇储层）沉积体系发育规律对今后勘探开发具有指导意义。以高精度三维地震资料及测井资料为基础,通过岩芯相、测井相、地震相、地震属性的综合分析,探讨流二段沉积体系发育规律,建立沉积模式。研究表明：流二段主要发育滨浅湖、深湖—半深湖、湖底扇及辫状河三角洲4种沉积体系类型;在北陡南缓的半地堑构造样式控制下,北部陡坡带及洼槽带发育深湖—半深湖相,同时接受北部、东部2个物源方向的供源,分别在西洼、东洼发育湖底扇相,南部缓坡带发育滨浅湖及辫状河三角洲相。海中凹陷流二段好烃源岩主要发育在初始湖泛面层序位置（ts）,湖底扇主要发育在湖泊扩张体系域内（TST）,反映了在断陷湖盆背景下,构造沉降因素控制烃源岩发育程度强于湖平面变化因素。研究可为半地堑型断陷湖盆深湖—半深湖相烃源岩与湖底扇储层发育层序位置及共生模式的建立提供参考。     

Improved understanding of petroleum migration history in the Hongche fault zone,northwestern Junggar Basin (northwest China): Constrained by vein-calcite fluid inclusions and trace elements

Calcite veins and cements occur widely in Carboniferous and Permian reservoirs of the Hongche fault zone, northwestern Junggar Basin in northwest China. The calcites were investigated by fluid inclusion and trace-element analyses, providing an improved understanding of the petroleum migration history. It is indicated that the Hongche fault behaved as a migration pathway before the Early Cretaceous, allowing two oil charges to migrate into the hanging-wall, fault-core and footwall reservoirs across the fault. Since the Late Cretaceous, the Hongche fault has been sealed. As a consequence, meteoric water flowed down only into the hanging-wall and fault-core reservoirs. The meteoric-water incursion is likely an important cause for degradation of reservoir oils. In contrast, the footwall reservoirs received gas charge (the third hydrocarbon event) following the Late Cretaceous. This helps explain the distribution of petroleum across the fault. This study provides an example of how a fault may evolve as pathway and seal over time, and how reservoir diagenetic minerals can provide clues to complex petroleum migration histories.     

Seismic characteristics of a reef carbonate reservoir and implications for hydrocarbon exploration in deepwater of the Qiongdongnan Basin,northern South China Sea

Our analysis of approximately 40,000 km of multichannel 2-D seismic data, reef oil-field seismic data, and data from several boreholes led to the identification of two areas of reef carbonate reservoirs in deepwater areas (water depth ≥ 500 m) of the Qiongdongnan Basin (QDNB), northern South China Sea. High-resolution sequence stratigraphic analysis revealed that the transgressive and highstand system tracts of the mid-Miocene Meishan Formation in the Beijiao and Ledong–Lingshui Depressions developed reef carbonates. The seismic features of the reef carbonates in these two areas include chaotic bedding, intermittent internal reflections, chaotic or blank reflections, mounded reflections, and apparent amplitude anomalies, similar to the seismic characteristics of the LH11-1 reef reservoir in the Dongsha Uplift and Island Reef of the Salawati Basin, Indonesia, which house large oil fields. The impedance values of reefs in the Beijiao and Ledong–Lingshui Depressions are 8000–9000 g/cc × m/s. Impedance sections reveal that the impedance of the LH11-1 reef reservoir in the northern South China Sea is 8000–10000 g/cc × m/s, whereas that of pure limestone in BD23-1-1 is >10000 g/cc × m/s. The mid-Miocene paleogeography of the Beijiao Depression was dominated by offshore and neritic environments, with only part of the southern Beijiao uplift emergent at that time. The input of terrigenous sediments was relatively minor in this area, meaning that terrigenous source areas were insignificant in terms of the Beijiao Depression; reef carbonates were probably widely distributed throughout the depression, as with the Ledong–Lingshui Depression. The combined geological and geophysical data indicate that shelf margin atolls were well developed in the Beijiao Depression, as in the Ledong–Lingshui Depression where small-scale patch or pinnacle reefs developed. These reef carbonates are promising reservoirs, representing important targets for deepwater hydrocarbon exploration.     

琼东南盆地梅山组海底扇成因演化特征与勘探建议

梅山组海底扇作为中央峡谷水道之外最引人注目的大型储集体,是琼东南盆地尤其是深水区常规碎屑岩领域下一步最为重要的勘探对象。总结了琼东南盆地各凹陷钻井资料所揭示的梅山组海底扇差异分布现象,通过研究区大陆架发育特征、陆架坡折带发育特征,结合物源供给与优势海流方向,首次从宏观格局解释了琼东南盆地中央坳陷带不同凹陷海底扇发育地质背景的差异及成因,提出乐东凹陷梅山组大型海底扇主物源来自东北方向海南隆起。通过细化中中新世大海退内部次级海平面旋回特征,首次建立了本区梅山组层序充填与海平面旋回的精确对应关系,从层序成因角度厘清了梅山组各期次海底扇发育演化特征与凹陷级别的有利储层展布特征,并据此提出相应的勘探建议,指出乐东凹陷梅山组中—晚期海底扇储层风险低,是梅山组海底扇领域突破的首选区带;陵水凹陷早期海底扇圈闭有效性较好,是梅山组海底扇大规模成藏的有利勘探方向。该研究为梅山组海底扇领域的勘探部署提供了新思路。     

Applying seismic geomorphology to delineate switched sequence stratigraphic architecture in lacustrine rift basins: An example from the Pearl River Mouth Basin,northern South China Sea

Switched sequence stratigraphic architectural units were developed in the Eocene Wenchang Formation stratigraphic section of the Pearl River Mouth Basin (PRMB), northern South China Sea. Utilizing a high-quality 3D seismic data set, well logs and restored paleogeomorphology, the architecture and genesis of switched sequence stratigraphic units have been systematically investigated. The Wenchang Formation, a second-order sequence, can be subdivided into seven third-order sequences (from base to top: SQ1, SQ2, SQ3, SQ4, SQ5, SQ6, and SQ7). The sequence stratigraphic architecture of the Wenchang Formation is characterized by continuous lateral stacking patterns from sequences SQ1 to SQ7. Sequences SQ1–SQ4 mainly developed in the HZ26 sag, whereas sequences SQ5–SQ7 mainly developed in the XJ24 sag. The depositional centres of the Wenchang Formation appear to have migrated from the HZ26 sag to the XJ24 sag-along the northwest direction from sequences SQ1 to SQ7. Multiple tectonic activation episodes or alternating tectonic subsidence of the HZ26 and XJ24 sags resulted in the distinctive geomorphological features that effected the development of the switched sequence stratigraphic architecture in the study area. The switched sequence stratigraphic architecture presented in this study may provide new insights into a better understanding of sequence stratigraphic stacking patterns in continental lacustrine rift basins.