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Investigation of subsurface tar-sand deposits in western Kentucky

Journal Article · · Kentucky Geol. Surv. Inform. Circ.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5807879
Tar sands (also referred to as asphaltic sandstones, heavy-oil deposits, or bitumen-impregnated sandstones) in W. Kentucky have been recognized as a potential mineral resource for over 100 yr. These deposits have become the subject of increasing interest as a potential petroleum resource. Previous studies have provided estimates of the potential resources of shallow mineable tar-sand deposits. These investigations have concentrated on the outcrop areas where tar sands are present at or near the surface. However, data on subsurface deposits have been lacking and currently no reports are available which evaluate the potential oil resources associated with the occurrences of deeper tar-sand deposits in W. Kentucky. The Kentucky Geological Survey has initiated a project to inventory and evaluate the oil-resource potential of asphaltic sandstones in the subsurface of W. Kentucky. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the subsurface occurrences of asphaltic sandstones in the Big Clifty Sandstone Member of the Golconda Formation in a portion of the tar-sand area of W. Kentucky.
OSTI ID:
5807879
Journal Information:
Kentucky Geol. Surv. Inform. Circ.; (United States), Journal Name: Kentucky Geol. Surv. Inform. Circ.; (United States) Vol. 7
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English