Diagenesis of the Funing Sandstones (Paleogene), Gaoji Oilfield, Subei Basin, East of China

Abstract

This study deals with the diagenesis of sandstones of the Funing Formation at Gaoji Oilfield, Subei Basin, east of China. Mineralogy was determined by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The sandstones are lithic arokose and feldspathic litharenite, with less subarkose and sublitharenite. The diagenetic processes include compaction, cementation, replacement, and dissolution, indicating an opportunity to study the diagenetic sequence. Among the diagenetic minerals, carbon forms the major cement, appearing as dominate pore occluding cement in the Funing sandstones. Smectite is helpful for the formation of chlorite. Quartz overgrowth may be inhibited by illite and chlorite. Pore types existing in the study area include a mix of primary intergranular, secondary intergranular, secondary intragranular, moldic pores, and micropores. The quality of reservoir sandstones is environmentally selective, and pores are mainly developed in sand bars, distributary channels, underwater distributary channels, and overflow environments.