Contribution of I. O. Brod to oil and gas geological research in the Eastern Ciscaucasia

Abstract

The article dwells upon the organizational and scientific activities of I.O. Brod being a famous scientist in the field of oil and gas geology. His contribution to the development of scientific research and exploration for oil and gas in the Eastern Ciscaucasia in the 30s and in the first half of the 50s of the 20th century has been disclosed. Brief biographical details (birth, studies, positions, etc.) and data from his report at the 17th International Geological Congress (IGC) held in 1937 are given. The activities of I.O. Brod with regards to studying the geological structure and oil and gas content of the Eastern Ciscaucasia regions (Dagestan, Chechnya, etc.) are characterized. It is noted that the generalized text and graphic geological materials of the expedition enabled to identify the main features of the geological structure and assess the prospects for the oil and gas potential of the Mesozoic stratigraphic complexes and served as a scientific justification for the further increase in regional, geological prospecting and exploration work for oil and gas in the region under consideration. Listed are oil and gas fields and deposits (Achisu, Khoshmenzil, Izberbash, Duzlak, Eldarovo, etc.) established as a result of geological exploration under the leadership of I.O. Brod. The focus in describing the scientific and organizational activities of I.O. Brod in the early 50s of the 20th century is on large-scale studies by the integrated south geological expedition in the North Caucasus under his leadership with the participation of many specialized scientific, educational and industrial organizations and institutions. In conclusion, the main monographic, educational and popular scientific works of I.O. Brod are listed and accompanied by a brief reflection of their content and significance.