An examination of the timing of catagenesis of organic matter using three published methods

Abstract

Abstract Using the methods of Bostick (1973), Hood et al. (1975) and Lopatin (1976) I have estimated the expected Rmax0 values of vitrinite from 45 profiles of known burial history, the actual geothermic relations and the coalification-degree. The profiles represent mainly Hercynian and Alpine basins of Australia, the Soviet Union, the United States and Western Europe. Taking into consideration the geological age and the burial history, it is remarkable that Bostick's (1973) method is mainly applicable to profiles rapidly buried and lifted up over the Hercynian cycle, whilst the method of Hood et al. (1975) is especially applicable to profiles buried in the Hercynian cycle and them remaining at great depth until the present. In Alpine basins all 3 methods are equally applicable. Examination of measured and estimated value of Rmax0 of vitrinite makes probable the limited additivity of the thermal effect and the theoretical correctness of the method of Hood et al. If, by the method of Hood et al., the error in comparison is acceptable (⩽30%), the reconstruction can be carried out.