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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

AAPG Bulletin

Abstract


Volume: 69 (1985)

Issue: 9. (September)

First Page: 1452

Last Page: 1452

Title: Newark Rift System: A Potentially Prolific Hydrocarbon Province: ABSTRACT

Author(s): Daniel G. Zeigler, Bruce Cornet

Article Type: Meeting abstract

Abstract:

Many oil tests in the Newark rift system have been encouraging. The data from these tests combined with data collected previously indicate that the geologic and geochemical criteria required to produce significant quantities of hydrocarbons have been met in several of the basins.

Most of the wells drilled heretofore were not positioned using specific geologic or geophysical data. In fact, the industry only recently recognized the play as viable and has applied geophysical techniques to the search for potential hydrocarbon-bearing structural or stratigraphic traps. This activity has partially revealed the geologic processes involved in the development of the basins. The Sanford basin of North Carolina, for example, is a simple half graben, whereas the Richmond basin of Virginia seems to be more complex structurally and may have been affected more by wrench tectonics, producing structures similar to those found in the lake basins of the East Africa rift system.

Each basin's hydrocarbon migration history, however, cannot be fully documented at this embryonic stage of exploration. It is, therefore, necessary to continue to build the geophysical, geological, and geochemical data bases until a well-substantiated model of the migration history can be established. The migration history together with the tectonic evolution of the basin enhances the chances of finding where hydrocarbons are presently trapped. Currently, prospects are being evaluated in several basins. There is a reasonable chance that reserves will be found. At the very least, the wells will aid the exploration effort and refine the exploration theories.

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