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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

AAPG Bulletin

Abstract


Volume: 63 (1979)

Issue: 9. (September)

First Page: 1586

Last Page: 1586

Title: Dilation Brecciation--Proposed Mechanism of Fracturing, Petroleum Expulsion, and Dolomitization in Monterey Formation, California: ABSTRACT

Author(s): P. O. Roehl

Article Type: Meeting abstract

Abstract:

The Monterey Formation has been selectively replaced by dolomite and subsequently fractured, brecciated, and relithified with several generations of dolomite cement. The two dolomite types are distinctive in morphology, color, stoichiometry, ^dgrC13, ^dgrO18, and insoluble and trace-element content.

Dilation breccias evidently originate in embrittled rocks through a distinctive sequence of steps induced by tectonism: dilatancy, fluid expulsion, natural hydraulic fracturing, brecciation, hydroplastic flow, injection, and dolomite precipitation. Development is most abundant in, but not restricted to, areas of strike-slip faulting.

Initially, breccia clasts are angular, large, and closely fitted. In advanced development, smaller clasts appear unsupported and volumetrically subordinate to fracture-filling dolomites. Complex examples contain a very wide range of unsorted clasts and cement, similar to a slurry. They appear to be injected under pressure into swollen bedding planes and terminal fractures.

Tectonic stresses cause an initial compression and subsequent dilation (elastic) of rock microcracks and imperfections. With continued stress, the cracks are propagated inelastically and develop into major fracture networks. Fracturing associated with excess pore-fluid pressures triggers an instantaneous flow of connate fluids across several hundred feet of newly fractured strata. The resulting sharp drop in fluid pressure and temperature causes rapid precipitation of fracture-healing dolomite. The relithified rock is then subject to renewed dilatancy and rupture.

The dilatancy is pervasive and sufficient in magnitude to cause the expulsion of indigenous petroleum held initially in the organic matrices of the relatively impervious Monterey Shale. Several periods of petroleum migration are recorded in breccia paragenesis.

Dilation breccia is a distinct form of nondepositional breccia. It probably occurs in many tectonic provinces.

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