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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

GCAGS Transactions

Abstract


Gulf Coast Association of Geological Societies Transactions, 2011
Pages 45-54

Tertiary Turbidite Systems in the Southwestern Gulf of Mexico

Marco Antonio Arreguin-Lopez, Gerardo Reyna-Martinez, Hilarion Sanchez-Hernandez, Arturo Escamilla-Herrera, Aaron Gutierrez-Araiza

Abstract

Deepwater hydrocarbon exploration is going through exceptional efforts in Mexico, large amounts of resources of hydrocarbons have been estimated to be in the southern Gulf of Mexico Basin. In order to understand the petroleum systems at work in the study area, geochemical-geological modeling has been performed recently. This paper addresses the interpretation of sedimentary facies in the Tertiary plays.

An integrated dataset of 3D seismic, well logs, and cores are used to describe the sedimentary systems. The interpretation is based on (1) maps of seismic attributes, (2) characteristics of the response from well logs, and (3) whole core analysis.

The descriptions for the turbidite systems include four stratigraphic units: Eocene, Oligocene, Miocene, and Pliocene. Both Eocene and Oligocene are characterized by broad channel-systems in unconfined settings, the Miocene is dominated by channels and thin bedded overbank sediments, and the Pliocene shows sediment distribution controlled by the rising of structures and sand remobilization.

Understanding the characteristics of sedimentary systems and their controls will positively impact the hydrocarbon exploration in the area since it will allow reducing uncertainty, increasing exploratory success and setting the basis to continue with the exploratory process.


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