Distribution pattern of deltaic sand bodies controlled by syn-depositional faults in a rift lacustrine basin

Take the lacustrine delta in the second member of Paleogene Shahejie Formation in block Wang43, Dongying depression, Bohai Bay Basin as an example, the deposition architectural characteristics of lacustrine deltaic sand bodies controlled by syn-depositional faults in complex fault blocks of rift basin are examined from the aspect of the tectonic-deposition response, using cores, well logs and three-dimensional seismic data. The small-scale syn-depositional faults in complex fault blocks are dense and different in dip, the activity along the strike of syn-depositional fault varies in different positions, and all these control the sedimentary process of deltaic sand bodies. Influenced by syn-depositional faults, the deltaic distributary channel is more likely to pass through the position with weak fault activity, and be deflected or limited at the position with strong fault activity. In downthrown side of a single syn-depositional fault or micro-graben areas, sand bodies increase in thickness and planar scale, and sand bodies of multiple stages are likely to stack over each other vertically. In micro-horst areas controlled by syn-depositional faults, the sand bodies decrease in abundance, and appear in intermittent superimposed pattern vertically. This study can provide new research ideas and theoretical basis for exploration and development research in complex fault blocks.

Structural Style and Hydrocarbon Prospectivity of the Growth Faults Related Structures in the Bengal Basin

The structural and tectonic evolution of the Bengal Basin is characterized by a complex interplay of factors, including sedimentation, the rise of the Himalayan Mountains, and the movements of Jurassic syn-rift faults. This study aims to comprehend the progression of growth faults inside the basin by examining fault geometry, basin development, and structural relief patterns. We used high-quality 2D seismic lines from the PK-MY-8403, classical seismic interpretation techniques and modeling were carried out to reveal the plate tectonic conditions, stratigraphy, and sedimentation history of the basin. The break-up unconformity, Paleocene and Eocene submerged conditions, and crucial geological formations including the Sylhet Limestone, Barail Group, and Surma Group were among the notable features recognized in seismic section. With an emphasis on growth strata and pre-growth strata, significant variations in layer thickness and relief were remarked in different stratigraphic levels. Basin development events like the evolution of the Miocene remnant ocean basin, sedimentation in Oligocene, Eocene Himalayan collision, and the Pliocene reverse fault development are analyzed. In the early the Pliocene compressional forces outpaced sedimentation rates and syn-depositional normal faults of Oligocene time began to move in opposite direction. Syn-depositional growth faults may have formed in the Bengal Basin as a result of this reversal. This research provides a detailed comprehensive knowledge of growth fault development in the Bengal Basin following the seismic interpretation, modelling, and thickness/relief analysis. The outcomes point to a substantial hydrocarbon potential, especially in regions like the Eocene Hinge Zone, where the prospectivity of the area is enhanced by carbonate reefs and Jalangi shale. However, the existence of petroleum four-way closure in the investigated region requires further investigation.