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AAPG Bulletin

Abstract


Volume: 66 (1982)

Issue: 5. (May)

First Page: 637

Last Page: 637

Title: Resource Appraisal and Environmental Problems Associated with Oil-Shale Deposits in Morocco: ABSTRACT

Author(s): Uwe Troger

Article Type: Meeting abstract

Abstract:

The best-known oil-shale deposit in Morocco occurs in the Middle Atlas region at an elevation of 5,000 ft (1,525 m), and contains total estimated reserves of 3.5 billion bbl. Approximately 1 billion bbl is amenable to open-pit mining techniques, having an overburden ratio of 0.8. Yields from this deposit reach maximum values of 45 gal/ton and average more than 20 gal/ton. Questionable infrastructure and extreme climatic conditions are important considerations, but do not represent major obstacles to development. Run-off of precipitation is very important in this region because the water is used for field irrigation. Major changes from the present hydrologic pattern could easily destroy the dominantly cedar vegetation and adversely affect the most important inland recreati nal area in the region.

Conditions are much more favorable for developing the 100 billion bbl deposit situated near Tarfaya. This oil shale averges 19 gal/ton and approximately 60% of the deposit has an overburden ratio of 0.8 and thus could be mined in an open pit. Suitable infrastructure conditions exist in this area, including a harbor, an airport, and asphalt roads. Proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, stable climate, and low precipitation conditions help resolve problems which exist for other oil-shale deposits worldwide. Under these conditions, this particular deposit could be exploited by above-ground retort technology.

Development of these two deposits would be in contrast to current United States operations which tend to favor in-situ processing because of environmental considerations.

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