Bioclastic Limestone Research Articles

A new species and genus of Lower Jurassic rhynchonellide (Brachiopoda) from Livari (Rumija Mountain, Montenegro): taxonomic implications of the shell microstructure

ABSTRACT A new rhynchonellide brachiopod genus and species, Skadarirhynchia semicostata gen. et sp. nov., is described from the late Pliensbachian of Livari, Rumija Mountain, southeastern Montenegro. It occurs in shallow-water brachiopod-crinoid packstone beds (bioclastic limestones) of the periplatform facies of the Dinaric Carbonate Platform. Stratigraphy is constrained by means of 87Sr/86Sr dating indicating a late Pliensbachian age, and by the fact that the brachiopod beds lie immediately below the Toarcian marly limestones, which is consistent with the regional stratigraphical position. The new species has a circular to roundly pentagonal outline and semicostate shells with 10‒12 strong angular ribs. Internally, it shows reduced dental plates, narrow and thin hinge plates inclined dorsally with small crural bases, crescent-like and laterally convex, and hamiform crura. The shell microstructure of the new taxon is characterised by a homogeneous secondary layer (a single layer with no sublayers) built of rhombic fibres that are typically of coarse-fibrous type (eurinoid pattern) 35‒50 μm wide and 20‒30 μm thick. Other co-occurring rhynchonellide species such as Prionorhynchia fraasi and Cuneirhynchia dalmasi are also described. Shell microstructures for the genus Cuneirhynchia are presented.

The Paleogene Carbonate Banks of the Zagros Foreland Basin’s Forebulge, Northern Iraq: Stratigraphic Architectures and Facies Associations

The Paleogene sequence of the Zagros foreland basin of NE Arabiais punctuated by a linear chain of carbonate bank-ramp associations. These carbonate banks had developed over the NW-SE trending basin forebulge. Continued convergence and compressional tectonics of the basin made the forebulge become incipient and shallow enough to commence carbonate sedimentation. The porpose of this work is to investigate the origin, facies and regional stratigraphic relations of these carbonates to the forebulge and other basin depozones. Stratigraphic data of this research are collected from (15), measured outcrop sections distributed over the basin forebulge zone and surroundings. In addition, re-examination and reinterpretation of (30) previously studied surface and subsurface sections are compiled into the study. This done to integrate the regional facies distribution and basin-wide sequence stratigraphic architecture. Stratigraphic investigations include lithostratigraphic logging and correlation, microfacies analysis, and facies modeling. Four major banks were recognized, three of these banks (informally named: Dohuk, Kirkuk, and Sulaimaniyah) were developed over the forebulge zone. The other one (Sinjar bank) of the Sinjar area, is related to basininversion mechanism. The forebulge carbonate banks were developed as the reefal limestone of the Sinjar Formation, and the lagoonal carbonate and shale of the Khurmala Formation. The Sinjar Formation is dominated by coralgal reef and foraminiferal-shoals with facies spectrum forming the basic body of the bank. The ramp setting was developed on both sides of the bank. The bank limestone represents the inner ramp facies, whilea windward ramp is developed as foraminiferal bioclastic limestone fingers into the back-bulge basinal marlstone of the Aaliji Formation. A leeward ramp facies was developed into the foredeep depozone, with bioclastic carbonate intercalations that characterize the upper part of the Kolosh Formation. At a later stage of basin shoaling (Early Eocene), a carbonate back-bank lagoon was developed over the foredeep area. It became gradually, isolated at certain parts of the basin, and finally replaced by the dolostone of the Khurmala Formation.

New insights on the stratigraphy of the Upper Cretaceous-lower Paleogene successions at Esh-ElMellaha half-graben, Gulf of Suez, Egypt

Detailed field and stratigraphic (lithostratigraphy & biostratigraphy) studies were carried out on the Upper Cretaceous–lower Paleogene successions at Esh-ElMellaha half-graben, Gulf of Suez, Egypt. Four stratigraphic sections were investigated and arranged in a geologic profile extends from south to north as follow: Gabal El-Mellaha, Wadi Abu Had, Wadi Dib and Gabal Tarbul. The field work led to recognize four lithostratigraphic units (formations): Sudr (upper part), Dib, Esna and Thebes (top). The distinctive Dababiya Quarry Member (DQM) which characterizes the Paleocene Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM) was initially recorded at Esh-ElMellaha region. Sudr Formation is stratigraphically differentiated into two distinctive informal rock units, argillaceous bedded limestone unit and calcareous shale unit. The Dib Formation is here reviewed and correlates with the Dakhla Formation (upper part) in the different geographic neighborhoods of Egypt. It consists of glauconitic carbonate rocks (bioclastic limestone) embracing reworked gravelly and pebbly extra-clasts and broken exhumed mega-fossils (e.g. cephalopods, gastropods and bivalves, corals). Dib Formation is assigned to thelower Paleocene (Danian Stage) according to the occurrence of praemuricids taxa (e.g. Praemurica inconstans and P. uncinata) index fossils. Esna and Thebes formations are assigned to the Ypresian Stage. Dib Formation is bounded by two regional unconformity surfaces (erosional surfaces) as a result of two tectonic events (I and II) linked to Syrian Tectonic Event.

PENNSYLVANIAN CONODONTS AND MICROFACIES FROM NORTHEASTERN MEXICO (TAMATÁN GROUP, CIUDAD VICTORIA BLOCK)

The biostratigraphic analysis of the Paleozoic sedimentary successions in Mexico is crucial for understanding their age, depositional setting, and paleogeographic implications. This study examined conodonts and microfacies of calcareous strata within the Del Monte Formation of the Tamatán Group in northeastern Mexico. Field observations have led to the identification of three units within the Del Monte Formation: Unit 1, characterized by calcareous sandstone, bioclastic limestone, shale, occasional conglomerate, and dolomitized beds; Unit 2, consisting of conglomerate and/or breccia associated with debris flows; and Unit 3 including turbiditic sandstone and shale. Conodonts were only recognized in Unit 1, with such genera as Idiognathoides, Neognathodus, Idiognathodus and less frequently, Streptognathodus, Adetognathus, and Diplognathodus. The faunal associations include Idiognathoides cf. Id. corrugatus Harris & Hollingsworth, 1933, Idiognathoides sulcatus sulcatus Higgins & Bouckaert, 1968, Idiognathoides convexus (Ellison & Graves, 1941), Idiognathoides asiaticus Nigmadganov & Nemyrovskaya, 1992, Neognathodus cf. N. atokaensis Grayson, 1984, Neognathodus aff. bothrops Merrill, 1972, Neognathodus nataliae Alekseev & Gerelzezeg, 2001 (in Alekseev & Goreva 2001), Streptognathodus parvus Dunn, 1966, Idiognathodus incurvus Dunn, 1966, and Idiognathodus aff. delicatus Gunnell, 1931, suggesting Morrowan and Atokan (Pennsylvanian) ages for the dolomitic limestone and grainstone beds. Five types of microfacies (MF) and several marine facies zone (FZ) have been detected: MF1-bioclastic grainstone and MF2-wackestone deposited at the platform margin (FZ 6 and FZ 7), MF3-dolomitized wackestone representing an inner restricted platform (FZ 8), MF4-mudstone from a deeper water zone (FZ 4), and MF5-siliciclastic beds with bioclasts indicating a high-energy barrier associated with a platform margin (FZ 6). The findings confirm a shallow to deep platform and imply a connection among Mexican peri-Gondwanan basins, including the Tamatán Basin, indicating similarities in sedimentary facies and/or depositional environments linked to the Rheic Ocean during the Early to Middle Pennsylvanian.

Study on the Cleanup Mechanism of Microemulsion Acid Based on Microfluidic Experiment

Summary During an acid fracturing treatment, the preflush and spent acid injected by multistage alternate injection will enter the matrix; this part of the aqueous phase entering the matrix will cause serious water blocking damage during crude oil production, hinder the migration of crude oil in the matrix, and reduce the well productivity. There is a large amount of small-sized pore throats in low-permeability bioclastic limestone reservoirs. The small-sized pore throats are important channels for hydrocarbon flow and are more vulnerable to water blocking under the effect of capillary pressure. The multistage alternating injection of microemulsion acid is a key technology to unlock the commercial potential of low-permeability porous limestone reservoirs, which has the advantages of high acid conductivity, long action distance, less solid residue, and low water blocking damage. This technology has demonstrated good usability in field tests, and the relevant laboratory studies mainly focus on understanding the stimulation effect of microemulsion acid through macroscopic core experiments. But there is still no clear explanation at the microscopic level for why this system can expand its invasion range and mitigate the water blocking damage. To evaluate the effect of microemulsion acid in limestone reservoirs and provide a reference for its application, the properties and mechanism of this system are studied in this paper, while the systems commonly used in the acid pressing process (spent acid without cleanup additive, spent acid added with cleanup additive, and spent emulsified acid) are selected as the control group. According to the characteristics of multimode pore throat in limestone reservoir, a special micromodel with CaCO3 coating is developed. The microfluidic research is carried out to visually present the dynamics of multiphase flow during different spent acids invasion and flowback processes. The cleanup mechanism of microemulsion acid was revealed, while highlighting its application advantages through comparative analysis.

Separate-layer balanced waterflooding development technology for thick and complex carbonate reservoirs in the Middle East

Based on the waterflooding development in carbonate reservoirs in the Middle East, in order to solve the problem of the poor development effects caused by commingled injection and production, taking the thick bioclastic limestone reservoirs of Cretaceous in Iran-Iraq as an example, this paper proposes a balanced waterflooding development technology for thick and complex carbonate reservoirs. This technology includes the fine division of development units by concealed baffles and barriers, the combination of multi well type and multi well pattern, and the construction of balanced water injection and recovery system. Thick carbonate reservoirs in Iran-Iraq are characterized by extremely vertical heterogeneity, development of multi-genesis ultra-high permeability zones, and highly concealed baffles and barriers. Based on the technologies of identification, characterization, and sealing evaluation for concealed baffles and barriers, the balanced waterflooding development technology is proposed, and three types of balanced waterflooding development modes/techniques are formed, namely, conventional stratigraphic framework, fine stratigraphic framework, and deepened stratigraphic framework. Numerical simulations show that this technology is able to realize a fine and efficient waterflooding development to recover, in a balanced manner, the reserves of thick and complex carbonate reservoirs in Iran and Iraq. The proposed technology provides a reference for the development optimization of similar reservoirs.

Изотопный состав углерода и кислорода нижнепермских карбонатных пород лосиноостровской свиты (Приполярный Урал, р. Кожым)

The Paleozoic section on the Kozhim River of the Subpolar Urals is the best sequence of the northern Urals. The border of Carboniferous-Permian deposits are observed on the opposite banks of the Kozhim River and are represented by two types of sections: on the right bank — the Kozhym skeletal mound, on the left bank — depression deposits of mixed composition (Losinoostrov Fm.). The article presents the first information on the isotopic composition of carbon and oxygen in the Lower Permian limestones of the Losinoostrov Fm. It is shown that the obtained data on the isotopic composition on the 13C–18O diagram are visually separated into three clusters. The first cluster with the lowest values of 13C (–0.3…1.1 ‰) and 18O (23.5…25.0 ‰) included the most intensively silicified rocks (siliceous bioclastic limestones, secondary silicitolites, siliceous-carbonate-argillaceous mixtolites and siliceous-argillaceous limestone). The third cluster, with the highest values of 13C (3.9…5.1 ‰) and 18O (26.0…26.8 ‰), includes bioclastic and peloid-micritic limestones. In this case, the 13C values correspond to the range of variations in the carbon isotopic composition indicated in review works on the chemostratigraphic correlation of Permian deposits. The second cluster occupies an intermediate position and is characterized by the values of 13C (2.0…2.8 ‰) and 18O (24.3…25.4 ‰). This cluster is predominantly represented by limestones enriched with terrigenous materials. A comparison is made of the isotopic composition of the limestones of the Losinoostrov Formation with the coeval limestones of the Kozhim skeletal mound, which showed higher values of 13C and 18O in the latter.

Seismic lithology and geological implications of pre-salt jurassic carbonate rocks in the Amu Darya Right Bank

The formation and evolution of oil and gas reservoirs are typically related to the environment where sedimentary facies occur and regional sedimentary facies are distributed. The accurate characterization of reef–shoal complexes is one of the important tasks for exploring oil and gas in carbonate reservoirs. However, most traditional methods for characterizing sedimentary facies are based on high-density drilling data, core data, and thin-section data, often making them less suitable in areas with few drilled wells or sparse well networks. Hence, they often cannot characterize sedimentary facies accurately, severely hindering the oil and gas exploration success rate. This study seeks to characterize sedimentary facies using limited amount of data from drilled wells. An innovative model representing the relationship between lithofacies and seismic attributes was established by comprehensively analyzing the relationship among lithologic associations, principal component analysis, and regression analysis based on seismic lithology and data from various sources. The sedimentary facies of the Upper Jurassic (Oxfordian) formation in the eastern region of the Amu Darya Right Bank were accurately characterized using Red-Green-Blue (RGB) fusion. These analyses indicate that the relationship among micrite, bioclastic micrite, and bioclastic limestone can effectively represent the developmental pattern of sedimentary facies in the study area. The planar distribution of sedimentary facies based on the relationship between the lithologic associations identified through seismic interpretation revealed the relationship between sedimentary facies and the paleomorphology of the region. Results show that the paleo-landform in the study area's western zone is low-lying, where shoals are poorly developed; the paleo-landform in the central zone is high, with high-energy water and well-developed and widely distributed thick shoals; and the eastern zone is far from the open sea and affected by the central-zone landform, with low-energy water and low-quality reef–shoal complexes. Controlled by the unique landforms of the study area, the western reservoirs are thin and have low quality, central reservoirs are thick with good petrophysical properties, and eastern reservoirs have differing thickness and petrophysical properties.

Ichnological response to the Middle Eocene Climatic Optimum (MECO) in the Bartonian deposits of Kutch Basin, India

The Middle Eocene Climatic Optimum (MECO) represents a short-lived interval of global warming that disrupted the long-term cooling episode extending from the middle to late Eocene time. Biostratigraphically the MECO corresponds to the upper interval of planktic foraminiferal zones E11–E12 and the shallow benthic zone 17. Both the planktic and benthic foraminiferal zones are well-documented within the Bartonian mixed siliciclastic‑carbonate sequence of the Kutch Basin in western India. This case study aims to investigate the impact of MECO on the endobenthic community using ichnology as a proxy. The studied sequence comprises the underlying Harudi Formation, consisting of the marine green and grey shale and bioclastic limestone beds, and the overlying Fulra Limestone characterized by benthic foraminifera-rich limestones. The Harudi Formation is bereft of trace fossils except in one bioturbated firmground and two bioeroded hardground horizons. The MECO corresponds to the thin carbonate packstone, the middle green shale, and the Nummulites obtusus rudstone occurring at the middle to upper part of the Harudi succession, established earlier by a concurrent negative δ13Corg isotopic excursion. The shelly limestone or bivalve coquina bed deposited immediately prior to the beginning of the MECO consists of a monospecific firmground ichnofabric characterized by Balanoglossites triadicus. Out of two bioeroded beds, the lower one coincides with the earliest MECO interval and is marked by a brown carbonate hardground colonized with two ichnospecies of Gastrochaenolites. The upper bioeroded horizon corresponding to the end of the MECO is characterized by a series of top- and side-bioeroded (with Gastrochaenolites, Entobia, and Oichnus) carbonate nodules containing multigenerational septarian cracks. The upper hardground demarcates the top of the Nummulites obtusus coquina bed and the starkest basin-wide sediment starvation, making it a major condensed horizon that developed following a steady glacio-eustatic rise during the warming event. The MECO prompted the subsequent deposition of shallow-marine platform carbonates of the Fulra Limestone by accelerating a sharp rise in the sea-level and proliferation of diverse Larger Benthic Foraminifera in a warm oligotrophic seawater.

Three-stage hydrocarbon accumulations in the Middle Permian in the Central Sichuan Basin

The Middle Permain Maokou Formation (P2m) is a new region of natural gas exploration in the Sichuan Basin, is characterized by bioclastic limestone with localized dolomitization, and karst fractured-vuggy reservoirs. Currently, on the gas source, hydrocarbon accumulation process and control factors in the Sichuan Basin during the Permian are lacking. To bridge this gap, herein, we identified the filling sequence minerals inside the pores/vugs, along with the oil charge of the Maokou Formation using drill cores, thin sections, oil inclusion analysis, and U-Pb dating of calcite cements. The results showed that the reservoir space of the Maokou Formation was predominated by the residual dissolved pores/vugs, fractures, and dissolved fractures. The pores/vugs underwent four stages of mineral filling by very fine-fine (-crystalline, CC1) calcite → fine-medium calcite (CC2: from 256.4 ± 1.7 to 244.1 ± 6.3 Ma) → fibrous calcite (FC; ∼183.9 ± 8.2 Ma) → coarse-macro calcite (CC3; ∼171.5 ± 5.3 Ma). Combined with the homogenization temperature and salty of fluid inclusion, we considered that three stages of oil charge were present in the Maokou Formation reservoirs. The first stage involved the formation of paleo-oil reservoirs during the Late Permian to Early Triassic, corresponding to the high-maturity aqueous inclusions in CC2, with a homogenization temperature of 106.7°C–137.8°C. At that time, the oil generation from the Lower Cambrian Qiongzhusi Formation rocks peaked, and the generated hydrocarbons migrated upward into the Maokou Formation through the strike-slip faults in the basin center. The second stage involved the formation of paleo-oil reservoirs during the Early Jurassic. The Permian source rocks reached the oil generation window with hydrocarbon expulsion, which was consistent with the oil inclusions in FC. The third stage involved the formation of paleo-gas reservoirs during the Middle Jurassic to Early Cretaceous, corresponding to the high-density methane inclusions and bitumen inclusions occurring in CC3, with the homogenization temperature peaking at 151.9°C–178°C. The natural gas in the Middle Permian of the Central Sichuan Basin is predominantly sourced from the Lower Cambrian Qiongzhusi Formation mudstone and partially from the source rocks of the Middle Permian, indicating a significant source-reservoir conduit of the strike-slip faults in the basin center. The findings provide considerable baseline data to advance further research in the Sichuan Basin.

Epigenetic karst in carbonate buried hills and its influence on reservoir development: A case study of the Carboniferous Weixi’nan Sag, Beibuwan Basin, China

Karst is widely researched in the field of carbonate reservoirs. This study proposes a new formation mechanism and development model, specifically epigenetic karst, and asserts that high-quality reservoirs can be developed in the karst highlands and karst slopes of ancient landforms under the epigenetic karst with facies-controlled characteristics. The results indicate that there are three stages of karst in the study area. The first period is syngenetic karst, characterized by molds, intragranular dissolution pores, and micritization. Isotopic data reveal that the range of variation of carbonate rock 13C and 18O is similar to that of cement. The second period is epigenetic karst, the most significant karst in the study area. It undergoes a prolonged development time and features non-selective fabric dissolution. Oxygen and carbon isotopes exhibit negative values (18O ranges from −10.033‰ to −13.767‰ and 13C ranges from −2.56‰ to −0.52‰), which are significantly altered by atmospheric precipitation. The third period is buried karst, characterized by suture structure and asphaltene filling. The negative value of 18O in calcite veins is significantly <−15‰. The dissolved pores and caves formed by the epigenetic karst become the primary reservoir space for oil and gas in carbonate rocks. These exhibit facies-control characteristics, indicating that bioclastic limestone karst is well-developed and micritic limestone karst is underdeveloped. The study establishes a development model for karst reservoirs in the study area, selecting the highlands and slopes of ancient landforms as favorable exploration sites.

The Effect of the Emeishan Mantle Plume on the Genetic Mechanism of the Maokou Formation Reservoir in the Central Sichuan Region

Thin layers and high-yield dolomite reservoirs were recently discovered in the Permian Guadeloupian Maokou Formation. The genetic mechanism of this reservoir is controversial because of its complex sedimentation and diagenesis in the Maokou Formation. Traditionally, the genesis has focused on sedimentation, karst, and fracture, whereas the influence of the Emeishan mantle plume activity (EMP) has been ignored. In this study, we enumerated petrographic (grouped into micritic bioclastic limestone, limy dolomite, grain dolomite, dolomite cement, calcite cement, and saddle dolomite) and geochemical data (δ13C, δ18O, REE, and 87Sr/86Sr) from a microscopic perspective to support the impact of EMP on reservoirs. We conclude that EMP activity altered the sedimentary environment and induced a complex diagenesis. The paleogeomorphic reconstruction data indicate that the EMP caused an uplift zone in the NE–SW direction, depositing advantageous high-energy beach facies. In terms of diagenesis, the abnormally high 87Sr/86Sr ratios and REE with positive Eu anomalies suggest that dolomitization was influenced by both seawater and hydrothermal fluids. Based on the above evidence, we established a reservoir genetic model for the Maokou Formation related to the intensity of the EMP. This study provides a new perspective on the mantle plume activity for the study of carbonate reservoir genesis.

The geological controlling factors of the heterogeneity of a bioclastic limestone reservoir—a case study of the Cretaceous Kh2 layer in A oilfield, Iraq

Reservoir heterogeneity is one of the key factors affecting the exploration and development of oil and gas reservoirs. The Kh2 layer in the A field of Central Iraq is a major pay zone with strong longitudinal and lateral heterogeneity. The heterogeneity, controlled by geological factors, has not yet been confirmed, which seriously restricts the development of this pay zone. This study aims to establish a geological pattern for the reservoir heterogeneity of bioclastic limestone, providing a geological basis for heterogeneity evaluation. Based on the core observation, thin-section identification, and physical property analysis, the microfacies are classified, and the diagenetic sequences and the pore structure of the Kh2 layer are analyzed. Seven types of microfacies are developed in the Kh2 layer, namely, planktic foraminiferal wackestone (MFT1), lamellar bioclastic wackestone (MFT2), intraclastic–bioclastic packstone (MFT3), green algal packstone (MFT4), green alga–pelletoid packstone (MFT5), bioclastic–intraclastic packstone (MFT6), and intraclastic grainstone (MFT7). The heterogeneity of the different microfacies and heterogeneity within the same microfacies were evaluated using the variation coefficient of permeability tested from cores collected from wells and calculated by well-logging at different intervals. The highest heterogeneity was observed in the lamellar bioclastic wackestone (MFT2), with an average variation coefficient of 0.72. The lowest heterogeneity was observed in the green algal packstone (MFT4), with an average variation coefficient of 0.11. The vertical heterogeneity of the permeability is mainly controlled by sedimentation, while the lateral heterogeneity is mainly influenced by cementation, bioturbation, and the distribution of green algae. Finally, a micro-scale geological pattern for determining the reservoir heterogeneity of bioclastic limestone reservoirs is established. This study can guide the current injection development and remaining oil prediction in oilfields with similar backgrounds.

Methods of Division of Development Unit for Thick Carbonate Reservoir—A Case Study of the Mishrif Formation, A Oilfield, Middle East

This paper is aimed at introducing a method for the division of development units of thick carbonate reservoirs. This method consists of eight steps, ranked according to impact weight, each of which is independent but intrinsically linked. When there is a conflict between studies in different steps, the results of the previous step take precedence. (1) Pressure is the most important and reliable data. When the wells with an abnormal pressure gradient in the same interval account for more than 60%, further division of the reservoir is appropriate. (2) Baffles are the second most important and reliable basis. When there are continuous baffles or poor reservoirs that encounter more than 80% wells, it is appropriate to further divide reservoirs. (3) Without the two mentioned above, but with an unconformity surface or discontinuity surface between two sequences, it is appropriate to treat these two sequences as two development units. (4) Without the three mentioned above, if the permeability above and below the sequence boundary differs by 10 or more times, reservoirs above and below the sequence boundary are appropriate as distinct development units. (5) When the thickness, continuity, distribution pattern, and microstructure of two adjacent sequences are significantly different, it is appropriate to treat these two sequences as two development units. (6) If the development units are based on sequences, check for homogeneity within the stratigraphy. If depositional facies or physical property discontinuities are present, the sequence would be reconsidered for subdivision. (7) The reserves in each development unit should account for more than 20% of that of the whole reservoir. (8) When the division of the development units is complete, it needs to be examined to ensure that there is a consistent structure, fluid property, and free water level. If inconsistencies exist, then subdivision is considered. The method was successfully applied to A oilfield, Central Arabian Basin, in combination with the cores, cast thin sections, regular or special core analysis, wireline logging data from 450 wells, formation pressure from 63 wells, and more than 100 wells with a production logging test. The Mishrif reservoir was divided into four development units, in which different well patterns and well types were deployed. The improved development effect proves that the division of development units for thick bioclastic limestone reservoir is reasonable.

Микросферолиты в биогенно-абиогенной системе карбонатообразования (на примере нижнемэотических карбонатов, мыс Казантип, Керченский п-ов)

The results of the study of calcite microspherulites in carbonate breccia formed at the junction of biohermal and bioclastic limestones (Lower Maeotian, Cape Kazantip, Kerch Peninsula), the nature of which is still being discussed, are presented. The following analytical methods were used: chemical carbonate, gas chromatography, Raman spectroscopy, electron microscopy with EDS, isotope. The studies resulted in the following: the presence in the fossilized biofilms of the pelitomorphic matrix and microspherulites of framboidal pyrite, halite, barite, celestine, dolomite-calcite, hematite and magnetite, which are absent in the other structural components of the breccia. Organic matter (OM) is represented by algal-cyanobacterial matter with a large contribution of the microbial component and an admixture of humic material. The carbonaceous matter in calcite microspherulites is actually characterized by primary unstructured organic matter. The accessory minerals zircon, oligoclase, rutile, neodymium-cerium monazite and vanadium silicide were identified. The formation of microspherulite calcites most likely occurred in the reducing conditions of the lagoon with high salinity in the contact zone of carbonate and microbial muds. The activation of authigenic mineral formation was facilitated by gas-fluid seeps from an active ancient mud volcano.

The world-class carbonate-hosted Fankou Zn-Pb deposit in China. Part II. Alterations: C-O isotopic halos footprint the nature and transfer pathway of ore-fluids, and quantitative water-rock interaction process

The giant Fankou Zn-Pb deposit (more than 10 Mt Zn + Pb metals, grading at 15 %), situated in northern margin of the Quren Basin, is one of the largest Zn-Pb deposits in China. The stratiform orebodies are jointly bounded by both the strata (in the specific layers of Middle to Upper Devonian Donggangling and Tianziling carbonate sequences) and the fault system (a three-order thrusting fault system). Ore textures of carbonate dissolution, replacement-infilling and cementation are widespread in Fankou, analogous to a MVT (Mississippi Valley-type) deposit. Owing to the poorly developed fluid inclusions, the nature of the Fankou ore fluids remains indeterminate. To address this problem, we herein utilize micro-petrography, carbon-oxygen (C-O) isotopes and quantitative isotopic exchange modelling to trace the ore-fluids and water-rock interaction process. A total of ninety-three (93) carbonate samples, covering the majorities of stratigraphic horizons, planar locations, and various alteration intensities, were systematically collected. Micro-petrography reveals the primitively sedimentary bioclastic limestone suffer from heterogeneous dolomitization and carbonatization followed by massive Zn-Pb precipitation. These carbonate samples display a widely-ranged, δ18O- and δ13C-depleted isotope signature (δ18O = 12.57 to 23.82 ‰, δ13C = −7.79 to −0.46 ‰), relative to normal marine carbonates (δ18O = 25 ‰, δ13C = 0 ‰). Further modelling of isotopic exchange indicates a low-temperature (100 to 250 °C), δ18O-depleted (−3 to 7 ‰) and δ13C-depleted (−10 to −7‰) ore fluid equilibrated with the host rock by a relatively low water-rock ratio (W/R = 1 to 10). In terms of space, we identified a relatively decreasing trend of δ18O and δ13C isotopic compositions of carbonates, from southeast to northwest, and from bottom to up. Based upon the previous structural analysis, we interpret that the δ18O and δ13C isotopic distribution patterns are caused by a northwestwards transfer pathway of ore-fluids along the thrusting fault system, and the metalliferous, δ18O- and δ13C-depleted fluids are sourced from the interior of the Quren Basin. Collectively, we clarify the deep southeastern part of the Fankou Zn-Pb deposit and the interiors of the Quren Basin is the favorable exploration target in future.

Revisiting the Yudongzi microbialites (basal Triassic, northwestern Sichuan, South China): Fabric textures and paleoenvironmental implication

Unusual sedimentary deposits such as stromatolites, thrombolites, dendrolites, and giant ooids are widely distributed in the Permian–Triassic boundary (PTB) successions of shallow platform facies worldwide. These microbial fabrics, however, are rarely present in the same section. The genesis of these PTB microbialites and the oceanographic conditions linking to the end-Permian mass extinction still remain disputed despite intense study. Here, we report a stromatolite-dendrolite-thrombolite-giant ooid association from the PTB beds of the Yudongzi section on the northwestern margin of the Yangtze Platform, South China, which was situated in low latitudes during the Permian-Triassic (P-Tr) transition. The Yudongzi microbialites rest on an irregular contact with underlying Permian bioclastic limestone and are comprised of lower bedded stromatolite, digitate dendrolite, upper bedded stromatolite, and thrombolite units. The bedded stromatolite is characterized by undulating laminated structures and various amalgamated and layered clots. The digitate dendrolite is made up of digitate-like branches, formed by clots distributed in an arched arrangement, and characterized by abundant branching dendroids. The thrombolite displays distinct clotted textures that comprise a mixture of dark-colored microbial fabric and light-colored interstitial sediment. In microbialite, columnar structures identified as Gakhumella-like calcimicrobe are very abundant. Each individual of Gakhumella-like structure has densely arranged segments forming a columnar- to fan-shaped micro-structure. Single segments are arch-shaped and form a thin chamber between segments. Coccoid-like, bacterial clump-like, and other spheroidal aggregates are also commonly present and suggestive of a biogenetic origin for the Yudongzi microbialites. Moreover, distinct aragonite crystal fans are also for the first time found in the PTB microbialites in South China, suggesting that the fans may have resulted from high inorganic carbon concentrations, and thus high levels of carbonate dioxide in the seawater. The Yudongzi microbialites are capped by shelly grainstone and a massive giant oolite, implying that the demise of the Yudongzi microbialites may be due to destruction by strong wave currents in a high energy setting. Some ooids are coated unevenly by micritic laminae (or envelopes) indicating the possibility of a microbe-related origin. These microbial-coated giant ooids, together with the massive microbialites, may imply the long-term of microbial bloom in the oceans immediately after the end-Permian extinction. The co-existence of abundant Gakhumella-like microorganisms and oxygen-dependent invertebrates, together with some coccoid-like spheroids, aragonite cement crystal fans, and pyrite framboids indicative of oxygen-poor conditions, implies that oxygenation state of the PTB microbialites is much more complex than previously recognized, demonstrating need for continued multidisciplinary examination of facies changes associated biotic mass extinction.

An experimental study on horizontal well waterflooding in the Cretaceous porous carbonate reservoir of Oman

Porous carbonate reservoirs, prevalent in the Middle East, are lithologically dominated by bioclastic limestones, exhibiting high porosity, low permeability, intricate pore structure, and strong heterogeneity. Waterflooding through horizontal wells is commonly used for exploiting these reservoirs. However, challenges persist, such as significant uncertainty and complex operational procedures regarding adjustment effects during the exploitation. The USH reservoir of the Cretaceous D oilfield, Oman exemplifies typical porous carbonate reservoirs. It initially underwent depletion drive using vertical wells, followed by horizontal well waterflooding in the late stage. Currently, the oilfield is confronted with substantial developmental challenges, involving the understanding of residual oil distribution, effective water cut control, and sustaining oil production since it has entered the late development stage. Employing a microscopic visualization displacement system equipped with electrodes, this study elucidated the waterflooding mechanisms and residual oil distribution in the late-stage development of the USH reservoir. The results reveal that the reservoir's vertical stacking patterns act as the main factor affecting the horizontal well waterflooding efficacy. Distinct water flow channels emerge under varying reservoir stacking patterns, with post-waterflooding residual oil predominantly distributed at the reservoir's top and bottom. The oil recovery can be enhanced by adjusting the waterflooding's flow line and intensity. The findings of this study will provide theoretical insights of waterflooding mechanisms and injection-production adjustments for exploiting other porous carbonate reservoirs in the Middle East through horizontal wells.

Reconnaissance Basement Geology and Tectonics of North Zealandia

AbstractNew rock dredge samples supply key information to establish the tectonic and geological framework of the northern two‐thirds of the 95% submerged Zealandia continent. The R/V Investigator voyage IN2016T01 to the Fairway Ridge, Coral Sea, obtained poorly sorted poly‐lithologic pebbly to cobbly sandstones, well sorted fine grained sandstones, mudstones, bioclastic limestones, and basaltic lavas. Post‐cruise analytical work comprised petrography, whole rock geochemical and Sr and Nd isotopic analyses, and U‐Pb zircon, Rb‐Sr, and Ar‐Ar geochronology. A Fairway Ridge cobbly sandstone has a ∼95 Ma (early Late Cretaceous) depositional age; two biotite granite cobbles are 111 ± 1 and 128 ± 1 Ma in age, and some volcanic pebbles are also likely Early Cretaceous. Fairway Ridge basalts have intraplate alkaline chemistry and are of Late Eocene age (∼40–36 Ma). By analogy with South Zealandia, we interpret strong positive continental magnetic anomalies of North Zealandia to mainly result from Late Cretaceous to Cenozoic intraplate basalts, many of them rift‐related lavas. A new basement geological map of North Zealandia shows the position of the Mesozoic Gondwana magmatic arc axis (Median Batholith) and other major geological units. This study completes onland and offshore reconnaissance geological mapping of the entire 5 Mkm2 Zealandia continent.

Application of Novel Differential Injection-production Optimization Strategy in Tight Pioclastic Limestone Reservoir

The permeability of the ultra-low permeability bioclastic limestone reservoir in Middel East A Oilfield is about 5md. The pore structure of the reservoir is in multimodal mode and has strong micro heterogeneity. The single well productivity was low and it was difficult to sustain production after the vertical well development was adopted in the early stage, and it has been gradually transformed into horizontal well pattern at the flank area. However, the reservoir pressure and production declined rapidly, and the development effect became worse. Through the combination of reservoir micro-characteristics and macro-production performance characteristics, this paper clarifies the ultra-low permeability bioclastic limestone oil displacement mechanism and remaining oil distribution law under the micro-macroscopic dual scale, and clarifies the reasonable well spacing of vertical well pattern and horizontal injection-production well pattern. Based on the differential single well performance characteristics and water injection development mechanism, the injection-production connectivity evaluation model based on rapid numerical simulation is established, the regional differential injection-production strategy is formulated, the injection-production optimization adjustment criteria are established, the establishment of effective displacement system for the reservoir is supported, and the adjustment of more than 280 producers have been carried out in 2020-2022. The daily oil production of a single well has been restored from 307 barrels/day in 2019 to 483 barrels/day in 2022, and the water cut is reduced from 27.1% to 22.1%, the reservoir pressure recovery of 496psi provides important experience guidance for the scale benefit production of such tight bioclastic limestone reservoir.