Abstract
Hydrocarbon exploration in Bornu basin, Northeastern Nigeria commenced due to the discovery of gigantic hydrocarbon reserves in extended basins in neighboring countries. This study was carried out to map the Mungono and Marte parts of the Bornu basin for geologic structures that could guide in exploring new hydrocarbon fields using aeromagnetic method. Magnetic Intensity grids and their derivatives were used for mapping these structures while depths of magnetic sources (basement) and corresponding sedimentary thickness were estimated using Euler deconvolution and Source Parameter Imaging (SPI) methods. Anomalies show characteristic high positive polarity in the south in contrast to low magnetic signature of northern domain. Features such as faults, folds and intrusive rock bodies were identified as geological structures that could serve as hydrocarbon entrapment. Lineament analysis shows that fractures generally trend NE-SW following the dominant rift system of Bornu basin and Benue Trough. Three basement depressions with thick sediments (more than 3000 m) were also delineated which should be investigated for further petroleum exploration. The outcome of this study would help in delineating promising areas for detail hydrocarbon prospecting in the area.
Highlights
Petroleum exploration and production activities in Nigeria have over the years focused on the Niger Delta province, which is the source of the hydrocarbon produced in the country
Total Magnetic Intensity (TMI) grid and its derivatives were used to interpret the aeromagnetic data for identification of geological structures in the area
total magnetic intensity (TMI) of the area ranges from -124.7 to 256.8 nT; high intensities dominate the southern part whereas relatively low intensities cover the entire north
Summary
Petroleum exploration and production activities in Nigeria have over the years focused on the Niger Delta province, which is the source of the hydrocarbon produced in the country. Anakwuba and Chinwuko [2012] employed aeromagnetic data to evaluate the hydrocarbon deposits in some parts of Chad Basin, Nigeria The authors identified both shallow and deep depth sources with average depth of 1.5 km and 3.8 km respectively having a thick sedimentary coverage with thickness ranging from 1 km to about 6 km. Bello et al [2017] used qualitative and quantitative interpretations of aeromagnetic data in the onshore area of Niger Delta to estimate the depth to basement and to delineate possible areas that could be suitable for hydrocarbon exploration In their study, they identified thick sedimentary fills, structural lineaments (faults and fractures), and magnetic intrusions. The results obtained from this study will help in delineating promising areas for detail hydrocarbon prospecting
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