Discussions on the character and interpretation model of Kelasu deep structures in the Kuqa area

Abstract

Abstract The character and interpretation model of deep structures in the Kelasu belt are discussed from growth strata, thrusting sequence, salt accumulation, and imbricate patterns between the shallow and deep structures. Seismic data shows that the fold hinges of growth strata in the south limb migrate toward north from deep to shallow, the growth axial surface connected along these fold hinges dips southward, and strata thickness in its south are thicker than that in the north. These characteristics of growth strata are completely different from that of basement-involved structures and salt structures. By the kinematic analysis of faults on the southern and northern sides of the Kela-2 structure, the northern fault is considered to thrust northward and form Kela-2 structure firstly, and then be cut through by the southern fault. Strong thrusting of the southern fault caused the Kela-2 structure to uplift several kilometers, and made the peripheral plastic rocks passively flow and accumulate in the footwall, this course is very similar to the pump suction. Based on this model, the sub-salt and sub-coal thrusting systems are interpreted in the deep Kelasu belt. In the sub-salt structural layer, the remaining lower part of Kela-2 structure in the footwall of its southern fault is the northern Keshen anticlinal belt. The discovery of the northern Keshen anticlinal belt and the Jurassic sub-coal thrusting structures greatly widens the exploration scope of the Kelasu belt, showing an enormous exploration potential.