Sedimentary architecture models of deepwater turbidite channel systems in the Niger Delta continental slope, West Africa

Abstract

This paper studied an architecture model of turbidite channel systems based on the shallow-layer high resolution 3D seismic information in the deepwater area in the Niger Delta continental slope, West Africa as a prototype model. Different types of channel systems were identified and the corresponding architecture models were established. The controlling factors, evaluation criteria and spatial distribution of different channel systems were analyzed. This study shows that turbidite channel systems of West Africa could be classified into three types; confined, semi-confined and unconfined, according to the condition of canyon and the levees on both sides. On one hand, along the transport direction, channel system evolves from confined to unconfined. Within channel systems, channel complexes, including two types of incised and enveloped, are the most important reservoir bodies. On the other hand, there is a channel complex evolution from incised to enveloped vertically. The geological factors exert impacts of different levels on the architecture of the turbidite channels in different sedimentary systems or even within the same system.