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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

West Texas Geological Society

Abstract


In Search of New Permian Basin Oil and Gas Fields: Using Today's Technologies and Tomorrow's Ideas for Exploration, Development, and 3D Seismic in a Mature Basin, 1995
Pages 83-86

Stratigraphic Analysis of 3D and 2D Seismic Data to Delineate Porous Carbonate Debris Flows in Permian Strata along the Northwestern and Eastern Margins of the Midland Basin

Jory A. Pacht, Larry Brooks, Frank Messa

Abstract

Carbonate debris flows are very important plays in Leonard strata along the northwestern margin of the Midland Basin. Delineation of these strata, however, is difficult and detailed stratigraphic analysis of both 2D and 3D seismic data is important in reducing risk. Porous debris flows are best developed during lowstand time. When sea-level falls to a point at or below the shelf margin, sand to bouldersized clasts created by reef-front erosion are funneled through slope gullies onto the base of the slope.

Large debris flows exhibit well-defined mounds which downlap onto the sequence boundary. Many of these flows, however, are too thin to exhibit discrete reflections. 3D seismic data are used to define subtle changes in amplitude and frequency which suggest presence of porous strata. Along the northwest shelf, porous debris flows exhibit lower amplitude (dim spots) and lower frequency than surrounding strata. They are commonly developed immediately downdip of major slump scars.


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