Ewing Bank thrust: structural and sedimentological aspects
Compressional features observed as thrust faults occur in the Gulf of Mexico's upper slope area. A compressional feature manifested as a thrust can be seen in the Ewing Bank area in Block 988. This toe structure is initiated by upslope tensional forces via a type of large-scale slump. Wells that penetrate this thrust given no direct indications of repeat sections; however, well correlations tied via paleo and seismic data demonstrate the reverse nature of the fault's throw. The thrust feature can be seen clearly on a set of 3-D migrated extracted lines, which allow enhanced definition and increased confidence in the interpretation. Time slices through the area allow a plan view of the thrust. The Ewing Bank thrust fault zone trends east-west. Paleoreconstruction indicates the main thrust grew through time and suggests salt withdrawal beneath the decollement, which allowed the funneling of sediment. The compressional force apparently originated from the north due to normal faulting located at the front of a salt sheet; another possible origin is a more regional transmission of stress. The top and bottom of the salt sheet is appropriately imaged by 3-D data. By restoring salt thicknesses to depth, the interpreter can better appreciate the area's depositional and thrusting histories.
- Research Organization:
- BHP, Houston, TX (USA)
- OSTI ID:
- 5954436
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-890404-
- Journal Information:
- AAPG (Am. Assoc. Pet. Geol.) Bull.; (United States), Vol. 73:3; Conference: AAPG annual convention with DPA/EMD Divisions and SEPM, San Antonio, TX, USA, 23 Apr 1989
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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