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This study marks the first detailed depositional, diagenetic and organic geochemical investigation of Jurassic Isha Formation in North Waziristan, Khyber Pukhtunkhuwa, Pakistan. Detailed systematic sampling was carried out from exposed outcrop along the Mirali road in North Waziristan for microfacies analysis and diagenetic studies to unravel the depositional environment and diagenetic alterations. The oraganic maturity and hydrocarbon generation potential were assessed by total organic content and Rock-Eval pyrolysis. Outcrop analogue revealed that the formation predominantly comprises of thick to thin bedded oolitic fractured limestone, bioclastic and dolomitic limestone. In the petrography, a total of eight microfacies (MF1–MF8) were constructed and were directed different depositional enviroments. Based on the integrated field data and microfacies analyses, the Isha Formation is interpreted to be deposited on a homoclinal ramp particularly in peritidal, lagoon, and carbonate shoals. Sequences stratigraphic setup shows intervallic Transgressive and Regressive Systems Tracts. The TSTs are mostly grainstone and packstone facies whereas the RSTs are wackestone and mudstone microfacies which demonstrates a single 2nd order cycle and then multiple 3rd order transgressive and regressive cycles for the deposition of Isha Formation. The total organic content and Rock-Eval pyrolysis results were ploted on VanKerevlen diagram which indicate that the source rock potential fall within the type III kerogen. The HI versus Tmax and PI versus Tmax cross plots indicate that the formation lies within the zone of maturation, generation potentiality indicate that the formation has fair to poor potential and hydrocarbons are indigenous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhenium (Re) and uranium (U) are essential proxies in reconstructing past oceanic oxygenation evolution. However, their removal in continental shelf sediments, hotspots of early diagenesis, were previously treated as quantitatively unimportant sinks in the ocean. Here we examine the sedimentary reductive removal of Re and U and their coupling with organic carbon decomposition, utilizing the 224Ra/228Th disequilibria within the East China Sea shelf. We identified positive correlations between their removal fluxes and the rates of sediment oxygen consumption or organic carbon decomposition. These correlations enable an evaluation of global shelf reductive sinks that are comparable to (for Re) or higher than (~4-fold for U) previously established suboxic/anoxic sinks. These findings suggest potential imbalances in the modern budgets of Re and U, or perhaps a substantial underestimation of their sources. Our study thus highlights shelf sedimentary reductive removal as critical yet overlooked sinks for Re and U in the modern ocean. The sources and sinks of Re and U in the modern ocean may be imbalanced, according to sedimentary porewater analysis and assessment of reductive Re and U removal on the continental shelf [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seamounts are ubiquitous topographic units in the global oceans, and the Caiwei Guyot in the Magellan Seamounts of the western Pacific is a prime example. In this study, we analyzed a well-dated sediment core using magnetic properties, sediment grain size, and metal enrichment to uncover regional ventilation history during the middle Pleistocene and explore potential linkages to global climate changes. Our principal findings are as follows: (1) The median grain size is 3.3 ± 0.2 mm, and clay and silt particles exhibit minimal variation, with average values of 52.8 ± 1.8% and 38.2 ± 1.6%, respectively, indicating a low-dynamic process; (2) Three grain-size components are identified, characterized by modal patterns of ~3 mm (major one), ~40 mm, and 400-500 mm, respectively; (3) Magnetic coercivity of the deep-sea sediments can be classified into three subgroups, and their coercivity values are 6.1 ± 0.5 mT, 25.7 ± 1.0 mT, and 65.2 ± 2.1 mT. Based on these results, we propose a close linkage between magnetic coercivity and metal enrichment, correlating with changes in deep-sea circulation intensity. Conversely, sediment grain-size changes seem to be more strongly influenced by eolian inputs. Consequently, we suggest that regional ventilation has weakened since ~430 ka, likely linked to a reduction in Antarctic bottom water formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT This is a comment on the paper of Singh et al. (Geological Journal, 2024:1–20) on Strontium isotope stratigraphy of marine Oligocene–Miocene sedimentary successions of Kutch Basin, western India. Kutch hosts stratotypes of some lithostratigraphic and chronostratigraphic units of India. In this study, the Sr‐isotope estimated ages of the studied formations deviate significantly from their known ages based on biostratigraphy. The authors have not validated the interpreted ages with biostratigraphy. We believe a scrupulous screening of samples and validation of Sr‐isotope data with biostratigraphy are two essential requirements of Sr‐isotope stratigraphy. Unfortunately, Singh et al. made a new contribution to Kutch stratigraphy that falls short of meeting both conditions, leading to incorrect ages of the regional chronostratigraphic units of India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbialite reservoirs are of great importance in oil and gas exploration. However, there is still a lack of comprehensive studies on the formation mechanisms of thrombolitic reservoirs, a specific type of microbialite. This research focuses on the oldest thrombolitic dolomite reservoir located within the Precambrian Dengying Formation in the central Sichuan Basin, southwestern China. A multi-disciplinary approach was employed to characterize different thrombolite facies and elucidate the formation mechanism of thrombolitic dolomite reservoirs and their controlling factors, involving core observation, thin-section analysis, cathodoluminescence, scanning electron microscope (SEM) microscopy, elemental analysis using LA-ICP-MS, and carbon and oxygen stable isotope analysis. Based on variations in texture, four types of thrombolite were identified: 1) distinct clotted thrombolite, 2) diffuse and regular clotted thrombolite, 3) diffuse and irregular clotted thrombolite, and 4) composite clotted thrombolite. Notably, the diffuse clotted thrombolitic dolomite is the prevalent lithology in the reservoir. Through modification by meteoric water, organic acid fluids, and hydrothermal fluids, a reservoir with dominant porosity in the form of primary growth-framework pores, dissolution pores, and vugs was formed. This resulted in the development of two high-quality reservoir intervals within the Second Member and at the top of the Fourth Member of the Dengying Formation. The growth-framework porosity of the thrombolites, epigenetic karstification, and tectonic fracturing were mainly conducive to reservoir development. However, various types of cementation have reduced porosity and connectivity within the reservoir. Overall, this study is a valuable example of the methodology required to understand meso- and microstructures of deep-buried thrombotic dolomite reservoirs, including their heterogeneities and diagenesis, as the original structures influence diagenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aragonite is a metastable mineral, which is easily transformed into calcite, and generally difficult to preserve in the stratum. However, large amounts of aragonites were found in the Paleogene shale of the Jiyang Depression. The characteristics and preservation mechanisms of these aragonites were analyzed through a series of analytical methods, including cathodoluminescence, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), microarea carbon and oxygen isotopes, Sr isotopes, and dissolution simulation experiments under high temperature and high pressure. The research results show that: ①Aragonite in the Paleogene shale of the Jiyang Depression is related to algal microbial fossils, primarily composed of coccoliths and characterized by two emission peaks at 420 nm and 480 nm in cathodoluminescence; ②The primary factor allowing biological aragonite to be preserved is the immaturity of the organic matter and the deficiency of abundant organic acids necessary for its dissolution or transformation, which is confirmed by the evidence of organic matter maturity and simulation experiments of organic acid dissolution on aragonite under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions. Additional factors that may aid in the preservation of aragonite are the ideal sedimentation conditions, the defense of organic coating, and the enclosed environment with tiny pores, low porosity, and low permeability; ③These aragonite-rich shales, characterized by coccolithophores, provide a solid evidence for seawater intrusion into terrestrial lake basin, and have a significant implication for the source and storage of shale oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methane seeps, prevalent in ocean basins globally, indicate upward methane migration from the subsurface, often evident as gas chimneys in seismic reflection data. The footprint of this methane migration is often indicated by methane-derived authigenic carbonate (MDAC), a product of anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM). Despite extensive research on MDAC from present-day seafloors and outcrops, understanding methane migration footprints from subsurface rock samples remains limited. Therefore, this study aims to investigate methane migration footprints from subsurface rock samples taken from a proven area of gas migration. This study utilized cutting samples from well XS-01 located in the Makassar Strait, offshore Indonesia. The well was drilled through a gas chimney into Oligocene carbonate reservoirs hosting a substantial methane column (102 m). Analysis of 44 cutting samples involved petrographic examination, Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) imaging, and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis to discern mineralogical content and diagenetic features signaling the presence of gas. A diagenetic texture called clotted peloidal micrite (CPM) was discovered within foraminifera fossils and around fractures based on petrographic analysis. CPM is a type of MDAC and predominantly occurs in fine-grained, siliciclastic rocks, indicating gas migration. This migration is interpreted to occur: (i) during the early burial stages originating from microbial activity since the Oligocene (biogenic gas); (ii) following matured source rock that reached its peak maturity from the Middle Eocene to the Pliocene (thermogenic gas); or (iii) interference of these two processes. The migration route persists until present day as evidenced by gas chimney and seabed pockmarks identified in seismic reflection data. This study emphasizes the importance of subsurface rock samples, such as cuttings, in uncovering gas migration footprints. Especially, where seismic data is unavailable or could not image fluid flow features. In addition, this study also provides a new perspective on diagenesis along methane migration route, complementing most of the research that is primarily focused on reservoir diagenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Archaeological bone chemical composition is modified post-mortem by diagenesis processes, and over decades, several authors have proposed different protocols to avoid post-depositional contamination that can carry to misleading interpretations about the lifestyle and origin of ancient populations. In this work, a methodological approach based on rare earth elements analysis was developed to determine diagenetic alterations on femurs, humeri, and skull surfaces, and internal layers from thirteen individuals exhumed during fieldwork in the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Mosque at Rozafa Castle (Shkodër, Albania). Major, minor, and trace elements, including rare earth elements, were measured employing spectrometric techniques, and the obtained data were statistically processed by principal component analysis and one-way ANOVA to select the best preserved bones. The results show that in general, the internal parts of bones, especially skulls, suffered post-depositional chemical contamination. Finally, to show the effectiveness of the proposed approach, a diet reconstruction employing log(Sr/Ca) and Zn/Ca was tested, obtaining results that are in line with the literature describing a diet based on a mixed economy, mostly agricultural products with low protein intakes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tight oil reservoirs are considered important exploration targets in lacustrine basins. High-quality reservoir prediction is difficult as the reservoirs have complex distributions of depositional facies and diagenesis processes. Previous research has found that the diagenesis process of tight oil sandstones varies greatly in different depositional facies. However, diagenesis variation in different depositional facies is still poorly studied, especially in distributary channels of shallow water delta deposits in lacustrine basins. Based on the description of core samples, the observation of rock slices, the interpretation of well logging data, and the analysis of porosity and permeability data, the differences in the lithofacies types, diagenesis processes, and pore structures of different distributary channels have been clarified. Ultimately, a model of diagenesis and reservoir heterogeneity distribution in the shallow-water delta of Chang 8 Member of the Yanchang Formation in the Caijiamiao area of the Ordos Basin has been established. This research indicates that the main distributary channels in the study area are dominated by massive bedding sandstone lithofacies, while the secondary distributary channels are primarily characterized by cross-bedding sandstone lithofacies. There are significant differences in the compaction, dissolution, and cementation of authigenic chlorite and carbonate among different parts of the distributary channels. Plastic mineral components, such as clay and mica, are abundant in sheet sands, and are more influenced by mechanical and chemical compaction. Influenced by the infiltration of meteoric water and hydrocarbon generation, dissolution pores are relatively well-developed in the underwater distributary channel reservoirs. A large amount of carbonate cementation, such as calcite and siderite, is found within the sandstone at the interface between sand and mud. The occurrence of authigenic chlorite exhibits a clear sedimentary microfacies zonation, but there is little difference in the kaolinite and siliceous cementation among different microfacies reservoirs. Finally, a model of diagenetic differences and reservoir quality distribution within dense sand bodies has been established. This model suggests that high-quality reservoirs are primarily developed in the middle of distributary channels, providing a theoretical basis for the further fine exploration and development of oil and gas in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diagenetic spheroids are rounded mineralised structures in sedimentary rocks that span several orders of size dimensions. These objects include rosettes spanning tens of micrometres; millimetre-sized granules; and centimetre- to metre-scale botryoids, nodules, and concretions. Connections between diagenetic spheroids and chemically oscillating reactions (COR) have been established based on chemical and pattern similarities. Nevertheless, it is unknown if there are variations in their occurrences throughout geological time, especially during periods of global environmental change. This is because COR are pattern-forming reactions where carboxylic acids are decarboxylated by strong oxidants like sulphuric acid, bromate, or iodate. The hypothesis is that there should be a greater number of diagenetic spheroids at periods of increased atmospheric and oceanic oxygenation levels. Hence, this work presents the first compilation of occurrences of diagenetic spheroids between 0.541 and 1.8 billion years ago (Ga). The compiled patterned objects are those with concentric laminations and radially aligned crystals, which are patterns akin to equidistant circularly concentric waves that radially diffuse in COR. Another characteristic of diagenetic spheroids, similar to that found in botryoidal minerals, is the destructive interference that forms circular twins; this is identical to the COR pattern formed when circular waves meet. The timeline of Proterozoic diagenetic spheroids produced in this work reveals a significant increase in occurrences across the Ediacaran, which is attributed to an increased environmental oxidation state. During this interval, seawater is known to have become richer in sulphate and iodate, which create ideal conditions for the abiotic and diagenetic oxidation of biomass. Therefore, increased occurrences of diagenetic spheroids in the Neoproterozoic possibly represent sedimentological evidence for abiotic decarboxylation reactions and widespread COR in productive environments. The distribution of diagenetic spheroids observed during the Proterozoic may also be more broadly applicable to other epochs of Earth's history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Illitization of smectite in sedimentary systems, a process akin to "reverse weathering," is a diagenetic process that has significant implications for sediment paragenesis and hydrocarbon exploration. However, the potential influence of chemical weathering on the illitization of smectite and its possible control of the neogenesis of titanium (Ti)-oxides remain unclear. Altered volcanic tephra layers (i.e., K-bentonites) characterized by an interstratified illite-smectite (I-S) clay mineralogy serve as an excellent medium to investigate the illitization of smectite. In this study, we first investigated the fine structure of clay minerals and in situ nano-mineralogy of Ti-bearing minerals from altered volcanic ashes and then undertook a meta-analysis of geochemical compositional data for bentonites spanning a wide range of ages and depositional environments globally. We found that Ti mainly occurs as discrete micrometer-scale magmatic srilankite and nanoscale authigenic anatase crystals. During the weathering process, the magmatic srilankite partly dissolved under acidic conditions, resulting in a local buildup of Ti in porewaters. The I-S displays a platy habit and curved edges and is found closely associated with anatase crystals under TEM. Our compilation results combined with microscopic evidence suggest that chemical weathering may potentially promote the illitization reaction by changing the chemical composition of the fluids through increased terrestrial inputs and by creating larger pore spaces through the decomposition of weatherable components. Positive correlations between K and Ti are especially common in (K-)bentonites that are dominated by I-S, suggesting that I-S can adsorb Ti during the weathering process and provide a suitable site for the nucleation of anatase. Our study highlights the role of chemical weathering in the illitization of smectite and their combined effect on the formation of Ti-oxides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reservoir quality prediction in deeply buried reservoirs represents a complex challenge to geoscientists. In sandstones, reservoir quality is determined by the extent of compaction and cementation during burial. During compaction, porosity is lost through the rearrangement and fracture of rigid grains and the deformation of ductile grains. During cementation, porosity is predominantly lost through the growth of quartz cement, although carbonate and clay mineral growth can be locally important. The degree of quartz cementation is influenced by the surface area of quartz available for overgrowth nucleation and thermal history. Clay grain coats can significantly reduce the surface area of quartz available for overgrowth nucleation, preventing extensive cementation. Using a coupled-effect compaction and cementation model, we have forward-modelled porosity evolution of surface sediments from the modern Ravenglass Estuary under different maximum burial conditions, between 2000 and 5000 m depth, to aid the understanding of reservoir quality distribution in a marginal marine setting. Seven sand-dominated sub-depositional environments were subject to five burial models to assess porosity-preservation in sedimentary facies. Under relatively shallow burial conditions (<3000 m), modelled porosity is highest (34 to 36%) in medium to coarse-grained outer-estuary sediments due to moderate sorting and minimal fine-grained matrix material. Fine-grained tidal flat sediments (mixed flats) experience a higher degree of porosity loss due to elevated matrix volumes (20 to 31%). Sediments subjected to deep burial (>4000 m) experience a significant reduction in porosity due to extensive quartz cementation. Porosity is reduced to 1% in outer estuary sediments that lack grain-coating clays. However, in tidal flat sediments with continuous clay grain coats, porosity values of up to 30% are maintained due to quartz cement inhibition. The modelling approach powerfully emphasises the value of collecting quantitative data from modern analogue sedimentary environments to reveal how optimum reservoir quality is not always in the coarsest or cleanest clastic sediments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to examine further the characteristics of micropore-throat structures of the tight oil reservoir in the Jiufotang Formation in the Houhe region, this study used whole rock X-ray diffraction, routine physical property analysis, and routine thin section observations to analyze the material composition and physical properties of the tight oil reservoir. CT scanning, high-pressure mercury infiltration, and other test methods were employed to analyze the characteristics of the pore-throat structures in the tight oil reservoir. In addition, the Pearson correlation coefficients quantified the relationships between nine parameters and pore-throat structures. The parameters with high correlations were optimized for analysis, and a comprehensive classification scheme for micropore-throat structures in the tight oil reservoir in the study area was established. The results show that the reservoir in the Jiufotang Formation in the Houhe region is composed of feldspathic and lithic arkosic sandstone, with feldspar and clast pore dissolution pores as the main type of reservoir pore space. The tight oil reservoir has small pore-throat radius, complex structures, poor connectivity, and high heterogeneity. It generally contains micron-sized pores with submicron to nanometer throat widths and small- and medium-sized pores to fine micropore-throat structures. Porosity, permeability, coefficient of variation, skewness coefficient, and average pore-throat radius, were selected for k-means cluster analysis. The micropore-throat structures of the tight oil reservoir were divided into three categories: classes I, II, and III. The study area is dominated by class II pore throats, accounting for 58%. Diagenesis mainly controls the pore-throat structure. These results provide an effective reference for the identification and evaluation of favorable sweet spots in tight oil reservoirs in similar blocks in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chert is abundant in Archean and Paleoproterozoic rocks and is commonly densely packed with authigenic Fe(II)-silicate nanoparticles such as greenalite, indicating a close relationship between iron and silica deposition. We investigate the relationship between Fe(II)-silicate minerals and dissolved silica during precipitation, settling, and diagenesis using anoxic synthesis, sorption, and heating experiments. Excess silica is associated with the solid during precipitation, resulting in high molar Si/Fe ratios (<1.52) that exceed that of stoichiometric greenalite (0.67). At pH 8–8.5, silica sorbs to the surface, reaching sorption densities of 0.68 mmol Si per mmol Fe(II)-silicate. Furthermore, excess Si is released upon heating as the Fe(II)-silicate gel crystallizes. We suggest that Fe(II)-silicate minerals acted as an effective Si shuttle between the water column and the sediments in Archean and Paleoproterozoic marine environments, providing sites for the growth of early diagenetic chert, consistent with observations from the sedimentary record. Our results explain the exceptional preservation of greenalite in early chert and indicate that these minerals could provide a robust archive of marine geochemical data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shallow-water platform carbonate δ13C may provide a record of changes in ocean chemistry through time, but early marine diagenesis and local processes can decouple these records from the global carbon cycle. Recent studies of calcium isotopes (δ44/40Ca) in shallow-water carbonates indicate that δ44/40Ca can be altered during early marine diagenesis, implying that δ13C may also potentially be altered. Here, we tested the hypothesis that the platform carbonate δ13C record of the Kinderhookian–Osagean boundary excursion (KOBE), ∼353 m.y. ago, reflects a period of global diagenesis using paired isotopic (δ44/40Ca and clumped isotopes) and trace-element geochemistry from three sections in the United States. There is little evidence for covariation between δ44/40Ca and δ13C during the KOBE. Clumped isotopes from our shallowest section support primarily sediment-buffered diagenesis at relatively low temperatures. We conclude that the δ13C record of the KOBE as recorded in shallow-water carbonate is consistent with a shift in the dissolved inorganic carbon reservoir and that, more generally, ancient shallow-water carbonates can retain records of primary seawater chemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Archaeological bone chemical composition is modified post-mortem by diagenesis processes, and over decades, several authors have proposed different protocols to avoid post-depositional contamination that can carry to misleading interpretations about the lifestyle and origin of ancient populations. In this work, a methodological approach based on rare earth elements analysis was developed to determine diagenetic alterations on femurs, humeri, and skull surfaces, and internal layers from thirteen individuals exhumed during fieldwork in the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Mosque at Rozafa Castle (Shkodër, Albania). Major, minor, and trace elements, including rare earth elements, were measured employing spectrometric techniques, and the obtained data were statistically processed by principal component analysis and one-way ANOVA to select the best preserved bones. The results show that in general, the internal parts of bones, especially skulls, suffered post-depositional chemical contamination. Finally, to show the effectiveness of the proposed approach, a diet reconstruction employing log(Sr/Ca) and Zn/Ca was tested, obtaining results that are in line with the literature describing a diet based on a mixed economy, mostly agricultural products with low protein intakes.

Methane seeps, prevalent in ocean basins globally, indicate upward methane migration from the subsurface, often evident as gas chimneys in seismic reflection data. The footprint of this methane migration is often indicated by methane-derived authigenic carbonate (MDAC), a product of anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM). Despite extensive research on MDAC from present-day seafloors and outcrops, understanding methane migration footprints from subsurface rock samples remains limited. Therefore, this study aims to investigate methane migration footprints from subsurface rock samples taken from a proven area of gas migration. This study utilized cutting samples from well XS-01 located in the Makassar Strait, offshore Indonesia. The well was drilled through a gas chimney into Oligocene carbonate reservoirs hosting a substantial methane column (102 m). Analysis of 44 cutting samples involved petrographic examination, Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) imaging, and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis to discern mineralogical content and diagenetic features signaling the presence of gas. A diagenetic texture called clotted peloidal micrite (CPM) was discovered within foraminifera fossils and around fractures based on petrographic analysis. CPM is a type of MDAC and predominantly occurs in fine-grained, siliciclastic rocks, indicating gas migration. This migration is interpreted to occur: (i) during the early burial stages originating from microbial activity since the Oligocene (biogenic gas); (ii) following matured source rock that reached its peak maturity from the Middle Eocene to the Pliocene (thermogenic gas); or (iii) interference of these two processes. The migration route persists until present day as evidenced by gas chimney and seabed pockmarks identified in seismic reflection data. This study emphasizes the importance of subsurface rock samples, such as cuttings, in uncovering gas migration footprints. Especially, where seismic data is unavailable or could not image fluid flow features. In addition, this study also provides a new perspective on diagenesis along methane migration route, complementing most of the research that is primarily focused on reservoir diagenesis.

Upper Permian Longtan Formation transitional shale has become an important exploration layer, but the Longtan Formation shale (LFS) has a complex mineralogical composition, which affects the subsequent diagenesis and diagenetic evolution, and restricts the subsequent geologic exploration of shale gas. In this article, the observation of drilling cores, argon ion polishing-scanning electron microscope, Vitrinite reflectance, and X-ray diffractometer were used to analyze the type and characteristics of diagenesis of the LFS and clarify the stage of diagenetic evolution. The results show that the main diagenesis in the LFS is compaction, cementation, thermal maturation of organic matter (OM), dissolution, and transform of clay minerals. Among them, OM hydrocarbon generation, clay mineral transformation, and dissolution are pore-enhancing diagenetic events. Compaction and cementation are pore-reducing diagenetic events. The transitional and marine shales have similar characteristics of diagenesis, but there are big variations in the diagenesis of OM hydrocarbon, authigenic quartz, and siderite. The complex depositional environments of the marine-continental transition environment have resulted in a variety of rock types, which in turn influenced the diagenesis types and diagenetic evolution process. Compared with the transitional shales of the Shanxi and Taiyuan formations in the South China North Basin, the LFS are characterized by high clay content, low quartz content, complex mineral compositions, and a higher degree of thermal evolution.

The shale in the 7th member (Chang 7) of Triassic Yanchang Formation on the southeastern margin of the Ordos Basin is characterized by shallow burial depth, light oil quality, large variability in oil well production capacity, and significant resource potential. Identifying the main controlling factors of reservoir enrichment is key to efficient exploration. Based on analysis results of cast thin sections, physical properties, and scanning electron microscope (SEM) tests of the Chang 7 shale member in the Fuxian area, combined with core, well logging, and seismic data, its layer characteristics are described and the main controlling factors are discussed. The results show that the Chang 7 shale in the research area extensively develops gray, dark gray, and gray black source rocks. The lithology is mainly mudstone and mud shale, with organic matter types mainly classified as type Ⅰ-Ⅱ2. The vitrinite reflectance (Ro) values of source rocks range from 0.81% to 1.10%, indicating strong hydrocarbon generation potential. The sandstone reservoirs are mainly fine-grained feldspathic sandstone, with pore types primarily consisting of intragranular pores, residual intergranular pores, dissolution pores, and primary intergranular pores. Porosity ranges from 2.0% to 16.0%, and permeability ranges from 0.01×10-3 to 1.20×10-3 μm2, indicating tight reservoirs. The oil-bearing properties of the reservoir are impacted by the physical properties of the sandstone interlayers and proximity to faults: coarser-grained reservoirs with better physical properties exhibit better oil and gas bearing potential. Reservoir properties are controlled by two factors, sedimentary microfacies and diagenesis. Subaqueous distributary channel microfacies have the best properties, followed by mouth bar microfacies. Strong early diagenetic chlorite cementation and weak calcite cementation contribute to the formation of sweet spots in the physical properties. The development and nature of faults play a crucial role in the Chang 7 shale oil enrichment. Statistical analysis shows that it is difficult to obtain industrial oil flow when the fault displacement exceeds 10 m and the wellbore is within 1 km of the fault. However, when the fault displacement is less than 7 m or when the wellbore is more than 1 km away from a large fault, industrial oil flow is more easily obtained.

In the western boundary region of Central Iran with Sanandaj-Sirjan, considering the widespread carbonate units in the northeastern Isfahan area, the barite deposits have considerable potential. The Komsheche barite, hosted in the Middle Triassic Shotori dolomite Formation, is the most active mine in the region. Barite mineralization has occurred in two styles, banded-layered and veined-brecciated. Fluid inclusions in the bedded barite homogenize at temperatures from 78 to 122 ºC, with salinity between 10.9 to 17.0 wt.% eq. NaCl, while the homogenization temperature for two-phase inclusions of the second type barite is between 130 to 187 ºC and associated halite-bearing tri-phase inclusions range from 192 to 210 ºC, with an average salinity of 14.3 and 36.6 wt.% eq. NaCl, respectively. The δ34S values of the samples range from 18.40 to 26.34 per mil CDT, and their δ18O values range from 8.9 to 14.7 per mil SMOW. Based on conducted studies, ore-forming fluids were formed in an open and near-bottom seawater system during the early diagenetic stage. The heavy isotope values related to pore water are locked in a closed system during the final stages of diagenetic. Sedimentary type, associated minerals, REE composition, finding of fluid inclusion and isotope reveal that Komsheche barite has the most similarity to diagenetic/cold-seep types of marine barites. Introduction In the western border of Central Iran zone with Sanandaj-Sirjan, according to the extent of carbonate units in the northeastern area of Isfahan, barite deposits have considerable potential. Part of the barytization is formed in the Middle Triassic host rock (such as Komsheche and Lamar) and part in the Lower Cretaceous host rock (such as Pinavand, Bagharabad, Maste-Kouh, Khase-Tarash and east of Mourcheh-Khort), which indicates that these sequences are prone to more discoveries in the future. These barites are unique in terms of sedimentary structure, and the Komsheche deposit is one of the representative examples of strata bound barite deposits in the Triassic sedimentary sequences of this area. Considering that the development of barite mineralization in the Triassic carbonate sequence is still in a halo of ambiguity, in this research, in addition to stratigraphic studies and investigation of the characteristics of mineralization, the mechanism of barite deposition has been tried using the mineralogical studies, the stable isotopes composition, and the fluid inclusions of barite are described. Materials and methods Field surveys were conducted to study ore layers by observing sedimentary characteristics and collecting samples from both host rock and ore. These samples were then analyzed in the laboratory through petrographic and mineralogical studies in the laboratory. Five samples were analysed by ICP-MS at the Zarazma laboratory to quantify major, minor, and rare earth elements. The study of fluid inclusions was conducted using the Linkham THM600 at University of Isfahan. The sulfur and oxygen isotopic composition in the Komsheche deposit was measured using a mass spectrometer. Values of δ34S and δ18O are expressed in parts per thousand or per mil (‰) using the Standard Canon Diablo Troilite (CDT) and Standard Sea Water (SMOW), respectively. Results and discussion The oldest rocks in the Komsheche mining area are assigned to the weathered orange-brown Shotori deposits of the Middle Triassic. These deposits are widespread and have a rough appearance. The lower layer, related to the Sorkh-Shale Formation (Lower Triassic), is not visible in Komsheche. The Nayband Formation, from the Upper Triassic age, consists of coaly shales and dark siltstone with interlayers of quartzitic sandstone. The Jurassic sequence is not visible in the Komsheche area, and no rocks containing Jurassic fossils have been observed in the red conglomerate of the Cretaceous base. The lack of sedimentation from the end of the Late Triassic to the Early Cretaceous may be due to the Cimmerian orogeny. The thin layers of sandstone and red conglomerate at the base of the Lower Cretaceous, with a thickness of up to 2 meters thick, consist of Shotori dolomite and siliceous rocks. This sequence begins without metamorphism but has a sudden change in lithology from clastic to carbonate. In the eastern parts, there is a thick layer of coarse-grained limestone, while the western parts are a sequence of olive-green marls, limestones, and sandy limestones of the Late Cretaceous age with orbitulina and ammonite fossils. Field studies, facies analysis, and laboratory research focusing on shape, mineralogy, texture, and grade indicate that the barite mineralization at the Komsheche mine can be categorized into two main types: banded and veined/brecciated. a) Type 1: The banded facies, which is widespread, contains lower-grade mineral material. It shows a stratification consistent with the host rock, with barite and host rock alternating over a thickness of less than 10 meters and a length of 700 meters. These facies, part of the Shotori dolomite sequence, is the primary mineralized horizon. The presence of interfinger structures of barite and dolomite crystals suggests simultaneous formation in unconsolidated sediments. b) Type II: The veined/brecciated facies, located near the center of the ore deposit, occurs as vein and shear masses formed along reverse faults. This facies represents the high-grade portion of the mine, and it is mined by through open-pit mining. These veins formations are commonly found at the boundary between the Shotori carbonates and the Nayband Formation, with dolomitization and limited silicification in the host rock. Barite veins are typically less than 1.5 meters thick, are surrounded by shear zones less than 2 meters wide. A homogenization temperature (Th) was conducted on 17 primary fluid inclusions (F.I) trapped in barite minerals from both the stratabound and veined/brecciated facies of the Komsheche deposit. The results of the analyzed fluid inclusions are presented in Table 3. In the first type barite, most fluid inclusions are single-phase liquid (L) or two-phase liquid-rich (L>V). The homogenization temperature ranges from 78 to 122 ºC, and the salinity levels range from 10.9 to 17.0 wt.% eq. NaCl. For the second type of barite, the fluid inclusions are predominantly two-phase liquid-rich (L>V), single-phase liquid (L), or three-phase with a solid phase of halite (LVH). The homogenization temperature for the two-phase inclusions of the second type is higher, ranging from 130 to 187ºC, while the three-phase inclusions with halite range from 192 to 210 ºC. The salinity levels for the second type of two-phase inclusions range from 9.5 to 16.0 wt.% eq. NaCl, and for the three-phase inclusions, it ranges from 36.2 to 37.0 wt.% eq. NaCl. The sulfur isotope values (δ34S) of the barite samples range from 18.40 to 26.34 ‰ CDT, while their oxygen isotope values (δ18O) range from 9.8 to 14.7 ‰ SMOW. The sulfur isotope values indicate isotopic diversity. A comparison with previous data (22.6 to 26.7 ‰) reported by (Forghani Tehrani, 2003; Rajabzadeh, 2007) shows differences in the distribution of measured sulfur isotope values, as shown in Table 4. According to the latest diagenetic models, sedimentary barite layers are formed at the sulfate-methane transition zone (SMTZ) during hydrocarbon migration. Based on this study, it was found that barite mineralizing fluids in the initial diagenesis stage were found to have temperatures below 120 ºC and a salinity of about 13 wt.% eq. NaCl. These fluids form near the seafloor in a shallow sea open system where sulfate supply is associated with anaerobic oxidation of methane as a mechanism for the reduction of sulfate to H2S. Barite formation occurs in shallow marine environments through by downward sulfate diffusion and the transfer of hydrocarbons and barium from depth upwards. The periodic formation of barite layers is related to the stability of the SMTZ. In an open system, barite retains the oxygen and sulfur isotope values of the coeval seawater. Barite precipitation occurs by fluid cooling, fluid mixing, and/or water-rock interaction. In the final diagenesis stages, heavy isotope amounts are linked to formation water in closed systems with high water- rock ratios. Veined barite, which is younger, may forms at deeper levels along faults over an extended period, completely replacing the host rock entirely. It is unlikely that veined barite forms near the sea floor. Deep fluids are heating by the geothermal gradient. This research suggests that the barite in question is similar to marine barites found off the coast of Southern California in diagenetic/cold seep environments.

Abstract Identification of the sex of modern, fossil and archaeological animal remains offers many insights into their demography, mortality profiles and domestication pathways. However, due to many-factors, sex determination of osteological remains is often problematic. To overcome this, we have developed an innovative protocol to determine an animal’s sex from tooth enamel, by applying label-free quantification (LFQ) of two unique AmelY peptides ‘LRYPYP’ (AmelY;[M+2] $$^{2+}$$ 2 + 404.7212 m/z) and ‘LRYPYPSY’ (AmelY;[M+2] $$^{2+}$$ 2 + 529.7689 m/z) that are only present in the enamel of males. We applied this method to eight modern cattle (Bos taurus) of known sex, and correctly assigned them to sex. We then applied the same protocol to twelve archaeological Bos teeth from the Neolithic site of Beisamoun, Israel (8-th–7-th millennium BC) and determined the sex of the archaeological samples. Since teeth are usually better preserved than bones, this innovative protocol has potential to facilitate sex determination in ancient and modern bovine remains that currently cannot be sexed.

AbstractThe Sarvak Formation, as one of Iran's most important hydrocarbon reservoirs, has been deposited and evolved under active tectonic conditions in various regions of the Zagros, including the Persian Gulf. The present study aims to investigate the effects of tectonic activities on the facies characteristics and diagenetic history of the Sarvak Formation in the eastern and western regions of the Persian Gulf. Facies analysis results indicate the deposition of the Sarvak Formation on a carbonate platform of ramp type. In the eastern part of the Persian Gulf, sedimentary facies of the Mishrif Member (Upper Sarvak) are predominantly deposited in inner platform areas (lagoon, shoal, reef deposits), while facies of the Khatiyah Member (Lower Sarvak) are mainly found in deep and outer platform areas (outer ramp). In the western part of the Persian Gulf, the Sarvak Formation encompasses a spectrum of shallow to deep-water facies, with open marine facies (middle and outer ramp) being notably more abundant. Two lower-order sequences (fourth-order) and one higher-order sequence (third-order) have been identified in this formation, indicating a high correlation with other areas of the Zagros and the Arabian Plate. Diagenetic effects related to a palaeoexposure surface have been observed in the uppermost part of the Sarvak Formation in both the eastern and western regions of the Persian Gulf. Dissolution porosity, brecciation, and iron oxide staining are among the most important diagenetic processes associated with these exposure surfaces. The thickness of the Sarvak Formation shows considerable variations in different parts of the Persian Gulf. Additionally, sedimentary facies of this formation exhibit significant lateral variations. The changes in thickness and facies variability of the Sarvak Formation were directly related to basement structures, indicating their activity during the deposition of this formation in the Persian Gulf. These tectonic events have had a significant impact on the burial history of the Sarvak Formation. Ultimately, the culmination of these facies and diagenetic characteristics has influenced the reservoir quality of the Sarvak Formation in the study areas.Keywords: Sarvak Formation, Persian Gulf, Basement structure, Facies, Diagenesis, Palaeoclimate IntroductionFacies characteristics and sedimentary environment, diagenetic processes, and fractures are the most important factors affecting the quality of hydrocarbon reservoirs (Ahr 2008). Therefore, considering tectonic features as one of the most important influencing factors on all the mentioned characteristics is a necessity in any integrated reservoir study (Nelson 2001; Hollis 2011; Lai et al. 2021). During the Late Cretaceous, especially in the Cenomanian-Turonian interval, tectonics was one of the main factors controlling the sedimentary basin of the Zagros region (Alavi 2007; Farahpour and Hessami 2012). These changes in the tectonic regime caused the reactivation of faults and salt domes in the region, creating a period of highly dynamic tectonic activity (van Buchem et al. 1996, 2002, 2011; Immenhauser et al. 2000, 2001; Sharp et al. 2010; Hollis 2011; Vincent et al. 2015). The Sarvak Formation, the second most important oil reservoir in Iran, has been significantly influenced by the aforementioned tectonic events, affecting its deposition and diagenetic history in various parts of the Zagros region. This is evidenced by the considerable variation in thickness and facies changes of the Sarvak Formation across different areas of the Zagros (Farahpour and Hessami 2012; Mehrabi et al. 2015; Bagherpour et al. 2021; Sadeghi et al. 2023).This study aims to integrate sedimentological data, including facies studies, diagenetic processes, and sequence stratigraphy, with existing information about the tectonic setting of the Persian Gulf during the Late Cretaceous, to examine the impacts of tectonic factors on the facies characteristics and diagenetic evolution of the Sarvak Formation in the eastern and western regions of the Persian Gulf. Material & MethodsIn this research, core data, thin-section microscopy, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis results from two wells in two different fields in the eastern and western parts of the Persian Gulf, referred to as wells A and B, are utilized. The studied core length in Field-B is 23 meters, and in Field-A, it is 61 meters. The number of thin sections is 67 for Field-B and 265 for Field-A. The number of XRD analyses for well A is 28, and for well B, it is 12. The Embry and Klovan (1971) classification is used for the textural nomenclature of carbonate rocks. For facies analysis and reconstruction of the depositional environment, the standard model by Flügel (2013) is applied. The sequence stratigraphic division is based on the identification of certain significant surfaces (i.e., sequence boundaries and maximum flooding surfaces) that act as timelines in creating the chronostratigraphic framework of the target formation (Vail et al. 1977). In this study, the Transgressive-Regressive (T-R) sequence stratigraphy method is adopted for the depositional sequences of the Sarvak Formation. This method was mainly introduced by Curray (1964) and later developed by Embry and Johannessen (1993) and Embry (1993; 1995). Discussion of Results & ConclusionsThe Sarvak Formation was deposited in a carbonate ramp setting, which includes facies belts of the inner ramp, middle ramp, and outer ramp. Transitional facies between the inner and middle ramp areas are separated by the fair-weather wave base (FWWB). High-energy shoal complexes in the inner ramp are recorded in the Sarvak Formation (MF-5 and MF-6). These complexes are represented by grainstones and packstones containing benthic foraminifera, peloids, and skeletal fragments. The allochems of the shoal facies are mainly rudist debris and other bivalves, with less frequent fragments containing echinoderms, foraminifera, and peloids.The middle ramp facies assemblage encompasses a wide range of shallow to relatively deep marine facies, including mud to grain-supported (mudstone/wackestone to packstone) facies with planktic and benthic fossil assemblages (MF-1 and MF-7). Large benthic foraminifera and skeletal fragments (mainly bivalves and echinoderms) characterize packstones to wackestones attributed to the proximal middle ramp, while foraminifera (benthic and planktic) and skeletal fragments (mainly echinoderms, bryozoans, and red algae) characterize mudstones to wackestones in the distal middle ramp. Peloids and intraclasts are significant non-skeletal grains in these facies.The deep marine facies assemblage, including the outer ramp and basinal facies, forms a substantial part of the Upper Cretaceous carbonate sequences in the studied wells. They are recorded as low-energy, mud-dominated facies (mudstone to wackestone) where planktic organisms (such as planktic foraminifera and oligosteginids) are the dominant components (MF-2, MF-3, and MF-8). The outer ramp facies of the Sarvak Formation are primarily recorded as oligosteginid-rich and planktic foraminifera-rich (such as Hedbergella sp., Whitinella sp., Globigerinelloides sp., and Rotalipora sp.) mudstones to wackestones associated with middle ramp facies (distal parts).Diagenetic studies have shown that the Sarvak Formation has undergone marine diagenetic environments, meteoric diagenesis, followed by shallow and deep burial diagenesis. Based on the textural relationships of the diagenetic features and with the assistance of previous studies on the Sarvak Formation, the paragenetic sequence of the diagenetic characteristics of this formation is constructed.Due to local and regional sea level fluctuations during the Cenomanian-Turonian, the Sarvak Formation has experienced a complex diagenetic history in various parts of the Zagros region (Mehrabi and Rahimpour-Bonab 2014). Palaeoexposure surfaces had a major control on the diagenetic evolution of the Sarvak Formation (Rahimpour-Bonab et al. 2013; Hajikazemi et al. 2017; Mehrabi et al. 2022a, b). Depending on the presence or absence of palaeohighs (such as salt domes and horst structures), the number of these palaeoexposure surfaces and the intensity of the associated diagenetic alterations vary across different parts of the Zagros region.The four main stages of diagenetic evolution of the Khatiyah and Mishrif members of the Sarvak Formation are as follows:Stage 1: Marine transgression, sedimentation, and marine diagenesis of the Khatiyah Member in the early to mid-Cenomanian.Stage 2: Highstand of sea level, sedimentation, and marine diagenesis of the Mishrif Member in the mid- to late-Cenomanian.Stage 3: Relative sea level fall, emergence of the platform, exposure and meteoric diagenesis of the Mishrif Member at the Cenomanian-Turonian boundary.Stage 4: Deposition of shale facies in a lacustrine environment (Laffan Shale) during this stage.The diagenetic processes of the Sarvak Formation can be divided into two categories: 1) Diagenetic processes related to discontinuities, and 2) Diagenetic processes unrelated to discontinuities. Processes related to discontinuities represent a meteoric diagenetic environment and indicate exposure surfaces, such as extensive dissolution termed karstification, meteoric cementation, formation of paleosols, formation of pisoid horizons, dissolution-related brecciation and collapse, iron oxide staining, silicification, and neomorphism. Diagenetic processes unrelated to discontinuities include micritization, bioturbation, burial dolomitization, mechanical and chemical compaction, pyritization, and burial or marine cementation.Significant variations in the thickness of the Sarvak Formation from different parts of the Zagros sedimentary basin have previously been measured and reported by researchers (Mehrabi et al. 2015b). Additionally, remarkable changes in the nature of the facies and depositional sub-environments of the Sarvak Formation have also been reported from various regions of the Zagros (Esrafili-Dizaji et al. 2015). Similarly, such changes are clearly observable in terms of the thickness and facies of the Sarvak Formation in the eastern and western parts of the Persian Gulf. In the eastern Persian Gulf, salt domes have created the most significant tectonic structures, often associated with the formation of hydrocarbon fields in this area.In contrast, in the western part of the Persian Gulf, the pre-existing basement faults and uplifted structures (such as the Kharg and Mish anticlines, and the Hendijan–Bahregansar structures) are the most significant structural features and have formed the main traps for the accumulation of oil and gas in fields like Hendijan, Bahregansar, etc. (Kazem Shiroodi et al. 2015; Mohammadrezaei et al. 2020). On these pre-existing highs, the thinnest thickness of the Sarvak Formation has been recorded, and shallow-water facies dominate over them, indicating a shallower depositional environment on these highs. The changes of sedimentary facies in relation to these structures reflect their activity during the deposition of the Sarvak Formation in the eastern and western parts of the Persian Gulf.

The carbonate reservoirs of Cenomanian–Early Turonian in the northeastern Central Arabian Basin hold considerable oil reserves and are great contributors to oil production. Diagenesis have a great impact on carbonate reservoir petrophysical properties, microstructure, and heterogeneity. By integrating cores, cast thin sections, regular core analysis, CT, and isotopes, this study provides an improved understanding of diagenesis in the Cenomanian–Early Turonian and its effect on carbonate reservoirs. The results showed that three diagenetic environments were identified in the Cenomanian–Early Turonian based on texture, structure, cement, crystal form, and crystal size, which were marine environment, meteoric environment, and burial environment. Six diageneses were identified based on residual bioclastic, secondary pores, calcite quantity, dolomite size, and stylolite, namely dissolution, cementation, micritization, dolomitization, compaction, and pressure solution. A micritization model in high energy sediment, a dolomitization model in burrows, and a comprehensive diagenetic model were established. It concluded that dissolution during meteoric environment is most favorable to reservoir physical properties, while cementation is least favorable. The cement content controls the microstructure and petrophysical property. Micritization is detrimental to the petrophysical properties, and the micrite it forms are distributed in the interparticle pores, reducing the reservoir property deposited in high energy environment. Dolomitization is less developed in substrate but widely developed in burrows, which result in the physical properties of the burrows being higher than those of substrate. Compaction and pressure solution have a negative impact on reservoir physical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new pore type, nano-scale organo-clay complex pore-fracture was first discovered based on argon ion polishing- field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy and three-dimensional reconstruction by focused ion-scanning electron in combination with analysis of TOC, Ro values, X-ray diffraction etc. in the Cretaceous Qingshankou Formation shale in the Songliao Basin, NE China. Such pore characteristics and evolution study show that: (1) Organo- clay complex pore-fractures are developed in the shale matrix and in the form of spongy and reticular aggregates. Different from circular or oval organic pores discovered in other shales, a single organo-clay complex pore is square, rectangular, rhombic or slaty, with the pore diameter generally less than 200 nm. (2) With thermal maturity increasing, the elements (C, Si, Al, O, Mg, Fe, etc.) in organo-clay complex change accordingly, showing that organic matter shrinkage due to hydrocarbon generation and clay mineral transformation both affect organo-clay complex pore-fracture formation. (3) At high thermal maturity, the Qingshankou Formation shale is dominated by nano-scale organo-clay complex pore-fractures with the percentage reaching more than 70% of total pore space. The spatial connectivity of organo-clay complex pore-fractures is significantly better than that of organic pores. It is suggested that organo-complex pore-fractures are the main pore space of laminar shale at high thermal maturity and are the main oil and gas accumulation space in the core area of continental shale oil. The discovery of nano-scale organo-clay complex pore-fractures changes the conventional view that inorganic pores are the main reservoir space and has scientific significance for the study of shale oil formation and accumulation laws. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbonate sediments are often regarded as problematic in geotechnical engineering due to the high variability of their properties. Understanding and quantifying this variability will become increasingly critical in the years ahead, notably with respect to upcoming developments in offshore renewable energy, for which limited in-situ data are typically available to characterise large areas. Here, six intervals from the North West Shelf of Australia, each composed of similar carbonate grains but accumulated in different environments, are investigated to better understand how the post-depositional cementation, alteration and dissolution of sediments, known as diagenesis, impact their geotechnical properties. Intervals are primarily affected by mineralogy-driven meteoric diagenesis, comprising in-situ dissolution of metastable grains and subsequent precipitation of cement that occurred when the shelf was exposed during lower sea-levels, and by marine diagenesis. In both cases, increased diagenesis results in a higher cement-to-solid ratio and compressive strength. However, while marine diagenesis is associated with a reduction in void ratio, this is not initially observed with mineralogy-driven meteoric diagenesis. Additionally, for a similar cement-to-solid ratio, microcrystalline cement results in higher compressive strength than sparite cement. The data further reveal that the level of meteoric cementation and the compressive strength increase as a function of the duration of exposure and of the regional climate, along with a reduction of the specific gravity related to the replacement of aragonite by calcite. However, increased meteoric diagenesis also leads to the formation of macro-scale heterogeneities such as calcrete layers and karsts that can affect the holistic geotechnical behaviour of such deposits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reservoir quality of tight sandstone is usually affected by pore throat structures, and understanding pore throat structures and their fractal characteristics is crucial for the exploration and development of tight sandstone gas. In this study, fractal dimensions of pore throat structures and the effect of diagenesis on the fractal dimension of tight sandstone sweet spot in Huagang Formation, Jiaxing area, East China Sea Basin were studied by means of thin sections, scanning electron microscopes, X-ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscope quantitative mineral evaluation, and high pressure mercury injection experiments. The results show that the total fractal dimension ranges of type I, type II, and type III sweet spots were 2.62–2.87, 2.22–2.56, and 2.71–2.77, respectively. The negative correlation between total fractal dimensions, porosity, and permeability of type I sweet spots was different from those of type II and type III sweet spots. The negative correlation between total fractal dimensions of type II and type III sweet spots and maximum mercury saturation, average pore throat radius, and skewness were significant, whereas the correlation between total fractal dimensions of type I sweet spots, and maximum mercury saturation, average pore throat radius and skewness were not significant. The positive correlation between the total fractal dimensions of type II and type III sweet spots and the relative sorting coefficient, displacement pressure, and efficiency of mercury withdrawal were significant, whereas the correlation between the total fractal dimension of type I sweet spots and relative sorting coefficients, displacement pressures and efficiency of mercury withdrawal were not significant. The effect of diagenesis on fractal dimensions was investigated. Compaction reduced the pore space of tight sandstone and increased fractal dimensions. Quartz cementation and calcite cementation blocked pores and throats, reduced pore space, and increased fractal dimensions. Chlorite coat can inhibit compaction, protect pore throat structures, and maintain fractal dimensions. Most clay minerals filled primary pores and secondary pores and increased fractal dimensions. Dissolution increased the pore space of tight sandstone and decreased the fractal dimensions of the pore throat structures. The pore throat structures of type I sweet spots were mainly composed of macropores, mesopores, transitional pores, and micropores, and the fractal dimension of type I sweet spots was chiefly controlled by chlorite coat formation, dissolution, and a small amount of compaction. This study provides a reference for pore throat structure and fractal dimension analysis of tight sandstone sweet spots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The petrous bone generally preserves ancient DNA better than other fossil bones. One reason for this is that the inner layer of the petrous bone of pigs and humans contains about three times as many osteocytes as other bones, and hence more DNA. A FIB-SEM study of modern pig petrous bones showed that the 3D structure of the thin inner layer is typical of woven bone that forms in the fetus, whereas the thicker outer layer has a lamellar structure. The lamellar structure is common in mammalian bones. Here we study human petrous bones that are about 2500 years old, obtained from three Phoenician sites in Sicily, Italy. A detailed FIB-SEM study of two of these bones, one well preserved and the other poorly preserved, shows that the 3D bone type structure of the human petrous inner layer is woven bone, and the outer layer is lamellar bone. These are the same bone type structures found in pig petrous bones. Furthermore, by comparing nine differently preserved petrous bones from the same archaeological region and age, we show that their collagen contents vary widely, implying that organic material can be significantly altered during diagenesis. The mineral crystals are better preserved and hence less crystalline in the inner layers compared to the outer layers. We therefore infer that the best-preserved DNA in fossil petrous bones should be found in the thin inner layers immediately adjacent to the otic cavity where much more DNA is initially present and the mineral phase tends to be better preserved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iran hosts more than 350 Precambrian to Cenozoic sediment-hosted Zn-Pb±Ba and barite-sulfide deposits, including shale-hosted massive sulfide (SHMS, also called SEDEX) and Irish-type and Mississippi Valley-type (MVT) mineralization, and barite is a common mineral in these deposits. In the SHMS deposits, barite is typically found as fine-grained disseminations in thin laminae. In these deposits, the sulfide laminae often occur as diagenetic replacements and as bands containing authigenic and diagenetic barite and pyrite framboids. In the Irish-type Zn-Pb-Ba and stratabound barite-sulfide deposits, barite exhibits various textures, including fine-grained disseminated barite, banded zebra textures, veins, and massive barite lenses. In some of the giant Irish-type deposits, as well as in the stratabound barite-sulfide mineralization, the main stratabound sulfide ore is developed within a barite envelope and is characterized by the replacement of barite and pyrite by chalcopyrite, galena, and sphalerite. In the MVT deposits, the formation of barite is often related to dolomitization, and sulfide mineralization involves the replacement of the dolomitized carbonate rocks, as well as associated barite. Fluid inclusion studies on the Irish-type deposits indicate that the temperatures and salinities of the sulfide-forming fluids are higher compared to those of the barite-forming fluids. Fluid inclusion analyses of coarse-grained barites from Irish and MVT deposits reveal their hydrothermal origin. The δ3⁴S values of sulfide minerals (pyrite, sphalerite, and galena) in Irish-type deposits exhibit a broad range of low values (mostly −28 to +5‰), primarily revealing a process of bacterial sulfate reduction (BSR). However, the textures (replacement, colloform, and banded) and more positive sulfur isotope values (+1 to +36‰) in the SHMS Zn-Pb deposits suggest that bacterial sulfate reduction (BSR) plays a less significant role. We suggest that thermochemical sulfate reduction (TSR) connected to the direct replacement of barite plays a more relevant role in providing sulfur for the sulfide mineralization in the SHMS, barite-sulfide, and MVT deposits. Based on the textual evidence, sulfur isotopic data, and fluid inclusion studies, barite has been identified as a key controller for the subsequent Zn-Pb mineralization by providing a suitable host and significant sulfur contribution in the sediment-hosted Zn-Pb and stratabound barite-sulfide deposits. This implies that diagenetic barite might be a precursor to all types of sediment-hosted Zn-Pb mineralization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complex pore structure of carbonate reservoirs hinders the correlation between porosity and permeability. In view of the sedimentation, diagenesis, testing, and production characteristics of carbonate reservoirs in the study area, combined with the current trends and advances in well log interpretation techniques for carbonate reservoirs, a log interpretation technology route of "geological information constraint þ deep learning" was developed. The principal component analysis (PCA) was employed to establish lithology identification criteria with an accuracy of 91%. The Bayesian stepwise discriminant method was used to construct a sedimentary microfacies identification method with an accuracy of 90.5%. Based on production data, the main lithologies and sedimentary microfacies of effective reservoirs were determined, and 10 petrophysical facies with effective reservoir characteristics were identified. Constrained by petrophysical facies, the mean interpretation error of porosity compared to core analysis results is 2.7%, and the ratio of interpreted permeability to core analysis is within one order of magnitude, averaging 3.6. The research results demonstrate that deep learning algorithms can uncover the correlation in carbonate reservoir well logging data. Integrating geological and production data and selecting appropriate machine learning algorithms can significantly improve the accuracy of well log interpretation for carbonate reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzed the petrological characteristics, diagenesis, pore types, and physical properties of the tight coarse-grained siliciclastic sequences in the third member of the Upper Triassic Xujiahe Formation (also referred to as the Xu-3 Member) in the western Yuanba area in the northeastern Sichuan Basin, China, based on the results of 242.61-m-long core description, 292 thin-section observations, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and 292 physical property tests. The types and genetic mechanisms of highquality tight coarse-grained siliciclastic reservoirs in this member was determined thereafter. The research objective is to guide the exploration and development of the tight coarse-grained siliciclastic sequences in the Xu-3 Member. The results of this study are as follows. Two types of high-quality reservoirs are developed in the coarse-grained siliciclastic sequences of the Xu-3 Member, namely the fractured fine-grained sandy conglomerate type and porous medium-grained calcarenaceous sandstone type. Hydrodynamic energy in the sedimentary environment is the key factor controlling the formation of high-quality reservoirs. These high-quality reservoirs are developed mainly in the transitional zone with moderately high hydrodynamic energy between delta-plain braided channels and delta-front subaqueous distributary channels. The dolomitic debris (gravel) content is the main factor affecting the reservoirs' physical properties. The micritic algal debris and sandy debris in the dolomitic debris (or gravels) tend to recrystallize during burial, forming intercrystalline pores within. In the medium-grained calcarenaceous sandstones, intercrystalline pores in the dolomitic debris are formed at the early diagenetic stage, and a pore system consisting of structural fractures connecting intergranular pores, intergranular dissolution pores, and kaolinite intergranular micropores is developed at the late stage of diagenesis. The formation of intercrystalline pores in dolomite gravels and gravel-edge fractures, a pore system connected by gravel-edge and tectonic fractures, is closely related to the dolomite gravels in the sandy fine-grained conglomerates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We document an apparent downward displacement of the Matuyama‐Brunhes magnetic reversal by ∼20 m at Scotia Sea International Ocean Discovery Program Site U1538 (Pirie Basin) by comparison with the well‐defined paleomagnetic record at nearby Site U1537 (Dove Basin). Detailed stratigraphic correlation between the two sites is possible due to similar lithologic variations. However, the two sites have distinctly different porewater geochemistry. Notably, Site U1538 indicates a greater demand for electron acceptors to oxidize organic carbon and Fe2+ enrichment below the depth of SO42− depletion. Magnetic parameters indicate enrichment of an authigenic magnetic mineral with strong remanence properties around the depth of SO42− depletion (∼46 m at Site U1538) relative to magnetic parameters at correlative depths at Site U1537. Fe2+ enrichment below the depth of SO42− depletion is not predicted based on the energetically favorable order of electron acceptors for microbial respiration but is documented here and in other depositional settings. This indicates Fe2+ production exceeds the production of H2S by SO42− reduction, providing a geochemical environment that favors the production and preservation of ferrimagnetic remanence‐bearing iron sulfides over paramagnetic pyrite and, thus, a mechanism for deep chemical remanent magnetization acquisition at depths of tens of meters. The influence of authigenic ferrimagnetic iron sulfides on paleomagnetic signals can be difficult to demonstrate with magnetic properties alone; therefore, this finding has implications for evaluating the fidelity of magnetostratigraphic records with complementary geochemical data. Such situations should be considered in other depositional environments with similar porewater Fe2+ accumulation below the SO42− reduction depth. Plain Language Summary: Sediment on the seafloor is an archive of Earth history, including past climate variations, ice sheet dynamics, and geomagnetic field variations. The lattermost include a history of when the Earth's magnetic field flipped upside down in the past so that compass needles would have pointed to the South Pole instead of the North Pole. Scientists have a good understanding of when these flips happened and, once identified in sedimentary layers, the flips can be used to identify time horizons—which are useful for dating other events recorded by the sediment. In this study, we present two magnetic reconstructions from nearby locations that initially recorded the same geomagnetic signals. After deposition, one of the magnetic records changed as a result of chemical reactions that modified the magnetic minerals in the sediment, making it difficult to correlate to the geomagnetic time scale. We have a nearby record with minimal chemical modifications so we could identify the chemical reactions were likely responsible for the changes. This observation will provide additional insights into what signals to look for when studying similar complications from other locations in the world. Key Points: The last magnetic reversal at Scotia Sea Site U1538 is offset downward by ∼20 m compared to the more reliable Site U1537 recordFerrous iron enrichment below the sulfate reduction depth is observed at Site U1538Anomalous magnetic minerals and porewater differences reveal a geochemical setting conducive to chemical remanent magnetization acquisition [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shelf seas are experiencing a rise in shallow gas leaks, primarily methane, raising concerns due to their environmental impact. However, the effect of the leaks on early diagenesis remains poorly understood. This study analyzes sediment lithology, organic geochemistry and porewater geochemistry of two short cores collected nearby the pockmarks in the muddy inner shelf of the East China Sea. Our findings clearly demonstrate the impact of methane leakage on early diagenesis, evidenced by the shallower position of the SMTZ (sulfate-methane transition zone), higher concentrations of uranium (U), vanadium (V), and manganese (Mn) in the porewater near and above the SMTZ, and downcore decrease in Mg2+, Ca2+, and Sr2+ concentrations versus increase in Mg2+/Ca2+ and Sr2+/Ca2+ ratios. Their profile variations and the difference between two cores are determined by the intensity of methane leakage. The estimated methane diffusive flux of 619 mmol m-2 yr-1 at YEC7-2 is roughly 8.5 times that at YEC7-1 (73 mmol m-2 yr-1), consistent with a shorter distance of YEC7-2 to the pockmark with active methane leakage. A schematic model is summarized to demonstrate the response of early diagenesis processes to the increasing methane leakages in response to changing sedimentation regimes from accretion to severe erosion. This study undoubtedly improves our understanding mutual promotion effect between seafloor erosion and gas leakage, and their impact on early diagenesis processes and resultant porewater geochemical changes and authigenic mineral records. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Feldspar alteration is among the most important processes in clastic rocks during diagenesis, but uncertainty remains about the factors that control feldspar diagenesis under subsurface conditions. Hence, the Upper Triassic Xujiahe formation of the Western Sichuan Basin were examined by an integrated petrographic, mineralogical and geochemical approach to unravel the causes and effects of feldspar diagenesis, with implication for mass transfer and openness of the geochemical system. The sandstones at various depths demonstrate three distinct, separate diagenetic behaviors of detrital feldspar within a single formation including (1) the complete dissolution of both plagioclase and K-feldspar in the upper member; (2) conservation of abundant detrital feldspar grains with minor albitization or overgrowths within the lower member of depths greater than 5 km; and (3) complete disappearance of K-feldspar within the uppermost horizons of the lower member, while plagioclase have survived in significant amounts. The exceptional disappearance of K-feldspar is the result of selective dissolution of K-feldspar during burial, accompanied by illite cementation and substantial K transfer at a scale of tens of meters. It is apparent that the clay diagenesis in the overlying mudstones, rather than porewater chemistry, is the major control of the reactivity of K-feldspar in adjacent deeply buried sandstones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mineralogical development and diagenetic sequence of lacustrine shales in the Chang 7 Member of the Yanchang Formation in the Ordos Basin are detailed studied. A model of their depositional system and a diagenetic diagram are proposed in this study. Through detailed petrographic, mineralogical, and elemental analyses, four distinct shale types are identified: argillaceous shale, siliceous shale, calcareous shale, and carbonate, clay, and silt-bearing shale. The main diagenetic process in argillaceous shale is the transformation of illite to smectite, negatively impacting shale porosity. Siliceous shale undergoes carbonate cementation and quartz dissolution, contributing to increased porosity, particularly in mesopores. Calcareous shale experiences diagenesis characterised by carbonate formation and dissolution, with a prevalence of siderite. In carbonate, clay, and silt-bearing shale, the dissolution of K-feldspar contributes to illitization of kaolinite. Argillaceous shale, characterised by more clay minerals and lower mesopore volume, is identified as a potential hydrocarbon seal. Siliceous shale, with the highest pore volume and abundant inter-mineral pores, emerges as a promising shale oil reservoir. These findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of shale properties, aiding in the prediction of shale oil exploration potential in the studied area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The Early Cretaceous Yamama Formation of X oilfield, deposited in a semi-restricted setting, holds considerable oil reserves. However, the reservoir is extremely heterogeneous and is poorly studied. Integrating outcrops, cores, cast thin sections, regular or special core analysis, wireline logging data from six wells, and seismic data, this study provides an improved understanding of reservoir petrophysical characteristics and geological controlling factors including sedimentation, diagenesis, and sequence. The results showed that eight lithologies are developed in the Yamama Formation, of which packstone and wackstone are dominant. The physical properties span a wide range, with porosity mainly distributed between 10% and 25%, and the permeability mainly distributed between 0.1 mD and 1 mD. Nine types of pores are developed, with moldic pores, micropores, and skeletal pores being the most developed. The reservoir has six types of microstructures, of which the poorly sorted with mega-throat represent the best reservoir. The Yamama Formation was mainly deposited in a lagoon, along with five other facies, such as supratidal flat, patchy reef, back shoal, shoal, and open shelf. Six types of diageneses are developed, with dissolution during the penecontemporaneous stage being the most beneficial to the reservoir and cementation being the most destructive. Three sequences were recognized in the Yamama Formation. It concluded that the hydrodynamics in semi-restricted depositional setting is weak overall and does not have the potential to develop large-scale high-quality reservoirs. A wide range of bioclasts were selectively dissolved to form a large number of secondary pores. Sediments rich in Algae, Bacinella, and peloids tend to form moldic pores, skeletal pores, and intergranular pores, respectively, which are prone to be favorable reservoirs. Controlled by the coupling of sedimentation and diagenesis driven by sequence, the reservoir is extremely heterogenous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of the study is to identify the thin-bed reservoirs of the Eastern Folded Belt (Sylhet and Bandarban) and characterize them with diligence. A detailed qualitative and quantitative analysis has been carried out. It is based on thin-section petrographic analyses of sandstone samples. These samples are from the reservoir horizons of the Sylhet region and Bandarban region fields. The purpose of this analysis is to characterize the textural and mineralogical properties. Additionally, it aims to evaluate the post-depositional diagenetic changes. The results obtained from the field and laboratory analysis are studied extensively to characterize the thin-bed reservoirs. Samples from the Sylhet area are medium-coarse-grained, fairly sorted, tight packing, submature-mature sublithic characteristics. Contrarily, samples from the Bandarban region are mature-submature sublithic arenites, which are fine-medium-grained, moderately well-sorted, and moderately loosely packed. Despite the similarity of the detrital elements (quartz, feldspar, lithic grains, mica, etc.) in the two areas, silica cementation is more frequent in Sylhet region samples than early carbonate cementation in Bandarban region samples. Comparatively speaking, the sediments in the Sylhet region are more compact than those in the Bandarban region. The most important outcome of this study is that the thin bed of the unconventional reservoir and the conventional reservoir are in close proximity. The Thin-bed reservoir units of the Eastern Folded Belt are found to be medium to fine-grained and well sorted, with frequent alteration of sand-shale with the prevalence of parallel bedded sandstone. Average porosity is 4% to 12%, and pore spaces are interconnected. So, the permeability rate is good enough to flow the hydrocarbon through these pore spaces. Most importantly, the thin bed and tight reservoir (average porosity 4% to 12%, but pore spaces are not interconnected) are not more prominent than 1 meter or 2 meters. Subsequently, though the vertical thickness is not so high, they keep up a momentous tirelessness of horizontal progression. On the contrary, at whatever point it comes to a conventional reservoir, the vertical thickness is higher than that of the unconventional reservoir. But their lateral persistence is not as long as unconventional ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] Marine red beds are distributed across various stages in geological history, are often interpreted as products of special environments, and have attracted widespread attention. The Sowa Formation in the Jurassic Qiangtang Basin is a set of sedimentary rocks composed of clastic and carbonate mixed sediments. In the Sowa Formation exposed in Bilocuo, Shuanghu county, Tibet, the red beds are mainly composed of carbonate sediments. [Methods] This study explored the causes of th red color and significance in the deposition and diagenesis of the red beds based on sedimentological, mineralogical, and geochemical methods. [Results] Field sedimentology and downhole thin section identification of these red beds revealed that the rocks are composed of grain-supported limestone, with abundant debris from cephalopods, echinoderms, bivalves, bryozoans, gastropods, and other benthic organisms. Biogenic debris and terrestrial quartz debris are the main components of the ooids, which display characteristics of a high-energy beach environment. Spectroscopic studies and scanning electron microscopy indicate that the main cause of the red color is submicron- to micron-sized pseudo-hexagonal and tetragonal hematite crystals. The coloration minerals are concentrated in the ooid cortex structure, and the cementing material is virtually devoid of coloration minerals. This suggests that during early diagenesis, particularly during the formation of ooids and peloids, iron-loving microorganisms played an important role in capturing iron oxides. Furthermore, the geochemical analysis of carbonate minerals shows that the redness is positively correlated with the flux of terrestrial debris input. Additionally, it exhibits a positive Ce/Ce* anomaly (1.1-1.3) and a pattern of enriched-middle rare earth elements "bulge", indicating that the iron oxides underwent reductive dissolution.[Conclusions] Based on these findings, the study reconstructed the red coloration process of these red beds. The input of terrestrial iron-bearing minerals provided the material basis for the red coloration, and then, during early diagenesis, reductive fluids dissolved the iron-bearing minerals, providing free iron ions for iron-loving microorganisms, allowing them to recrystallize and ultimately form hydroxyl iron and cause red coloration through chemical or biological processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionMantle-derived CO2, as an important component of hydrothermal fluids, is widely distributed in petroliferous basins. While previous experimental studies have suggested that CO2 can improve sandstone reservoir quality through mineral dissolution in open fluid setting, they have overlooked its nagetive effects to sandstone reservoir quality by carbonate cementation. Additionally, the roles of various fluid environments in CO2-reservoir interactions have not been studied in detail.MethodsTo systematically investigate the influences of CO2 on sandstone reservoirs, we examine a typical mantle-derived CO2 gas reservoir, Bohai Bay Basin, China. This study employs integrated methods, including electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, stable C- and O-isotope analysis, and physical property data. The aim is to investigate the evidence and mechanisms by which mantle-derived CO2 impacts sandstone reservoirs, particularly focusing on its effects in open and closed fluid environments.Results and DiscussionOur findings reveal that dawsonite and ankerite are prevalent within the mantle-derived CO2 gas reservoir, while isotopic analysis of carbonate cements indicates values (δ13C: −9.0‰ to −1.6‰; δ18O: −21.7‰ to −12.7‰) consistent with mantle-derived CO2 and hydrothermal fluids. These pieces of evidence indicate that CO2-rich hydrothermal fluids participate in water-rock interactions, thereby significantly influencing the diagenesis of reservoirs. Further, we notice that CO2 reservoirs adjacent to faults exhibit an open fluid environment, characterized by superior porosity and permeability, more quartz, but fewer feldspar, carbonate, and clay minerals compared to those in closed fluid environments. Notably, kaolinite predominates in open fluid environments, while illite/smectite (I/S) is more common in closed settings. The dual roles of mantle-derived CO2 are highlighted in our analysis: while it enhances reservoir storage and permeability through mineral dissolution, the carbonate cement generated by CO2-water-rock interaction can also adversely affect reservoir quality. In open fluid environments, CO2 facilitates the dissolution of feldspar and carbonate minerals, promoting the timely removal of dissolution by-products (clay mineral) and inhibiting carbonate cementation, thereby improving reservoir properties. Conversely, in closed fluid environments, decreasing CO2 concentrations with depth leads to diminishing dissolution effects and increased carbonate cementation, resulting in reduced reservoir porosity and permeability. Overall, the significance of this study is to correct the deviation in the impacts of CO2 on sandstone reservoirs at laboratory setting through case study of typical mantle-source CO2 gas reservoir.This work can be applied to the studies of reservoir homogeneity and sweet spots in regions with hydrothermal and mantle-derived CO2 activities. However, due to the limitation of CO2 content range (about 15%–70%) in the study case, we are unable to investigate the effects of low-concentration CO2 on sandstone reservoirs, which may affect the generalizability of this work. Besides, the formation temperature and pressure, and salinity of formation water, should be considered when dealing with other cases.

The fine-grained Pennsylvanian Cane Creek Shale of the Paradox Formation, Paradox Basin, Utah exhibits relatively thin cyclic interbeds of contrasting lithologies including fine sandstone to siltstone, organic-rich carbonate and dolomitic mudstone, and evaporites. As such, it provides a unique opportunity to evaluate micro-facies and the fluid storage capacity potential of mixed fine-grained systems. Micro-facies descriptions were performed using core and petrographic analyses, including scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy. The study leverages core-based porosity and permeability data, as well as previous core description. These data are used together to explore mineralogical depositional and diagenetic controls on porosity and permeability. Twelve micro-facies were described based on sedimentological textures, grain size, lithology, and mineralogy categorized into three groups: 1) sandstone to siltstone, 2) mudstone, and 3) evaporitic micro-facies. Sandstone to siltstone micro-facies exhibit variable porosity and permeability. Porosity connectivity is dependent on the degree of authigenic cementation and compaction that negatively impacts porosity. Mudstone micro-facies show less variability in porosity and permeability; and are characterized by carbonate content, organic-matter, and clay nanopores. The development of early carbonate grains maintains porosity in mudstone and dolomitic siltstone micro-facies. Evaporitic micro-facies represented by evaporitic sabkha-like conditions are characterized by pore-reducing anhydrite and halite cement. A diagenetic paragenetic sequence was developed to assess the timing and impact of mineralogy on reservoir quality. Early (eogenetic), Middle (mesogenetic), and Late (telogenetic) stages correspond with diagenetic stages and known tectonic basin events. Syndepositional dolomite and diagenetic illite/smectite authigenic cements are the main controls on reservoir quality and have opposing effects related to porosity and permeability by preserving early pore space or reducing porosity and permeability.

This study deals with unraveling the diagenesis-induced porosity evolution in a mixed clastic-carbonate sequence of the Middle Permian Indus Basin, Pakistan. Multiple data sets including outcrop, petrography, cathodoluminescence, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), mineralogy, and geochemical isotopic compositions were integrated to establish a link between porosity evolution and diagenesis. The spatial thickness and facies variations of the strata at outcrop scale are inherently controlled by the underlying bathymetry of the basin with deepening westward trend. The low values of δ18O of the target strata, relative to average values of the Permian carbonate, hints to diagenetic alteration in the strata. The data sets used in this study reveal modification of the strata in four environments, that is, i) early marine diagenesis indicated by micritization, pervasive dolomitization and isopachous fibrous cements, followed by ii) meteoric dissolution, and iii) shallow burial diagenetic processes including the precipitation of blocky cement, compaction of skeletal and non-skeletal allochems, and stylolites, and iv) a deep burial environment, characterized by pressure solution, and micro-fractures. The clastic intervals host subangular to subrounded quartz grains, floating textures, and almost complete absence of deleterious clay minerals, consequently resulting in the preservation of primary porosity. The primary porosity of carbonate intervals is preserved in the form of intercrystalline and intracrystalline porosity. The secondary porosity evolved through various diagenetic phases in the form of fractures and dissolution. The diagenetic solution mediated by organic matter in carbonates may have experienced both bacterial decomposition and thermochemical sulfate reduction, precipitating sulfides within the pores. The plug porosity/permeability analyses generally suggest high porosity in the siliciclastic unit, and carbonates with wackestone fabric while lower values were observed for the inner shelf pure carbonate facies. However, both intervals show very low permeability values probably due to isolated moldic pores and intense micritization. Therefore, clastic intervals may provide an opportunity to serve as a moderate reservoir; however, the carbonate intervals possess very low permeability values and could generally be considered as low-moderate reservoir potential.

Microbialite reservoirs are of great importance in oil and gas exploration. However, there is still a lack of comprehensive studies on the formation mechanisms of thrombolitic reservoirs, a specific type of microbialite. This research focuses on the oldest thrombolitic dolomite reservoir located within the Precambrian Dengying Formation in the central Sichuan Basin, southwestern China. A multi-disciplinary approach was employed to characterize different thrombolite facies and elucidate the formation mechanism of thrombolitic dolomite reservoirs and their controlling factors, involving core observation, thin-section analysis, cathodoluminescence, scanning electron microscope (SEM) microscopy, elemental analysis using LA-ICP-MS, and carbon and oxygen stable isotope analysis. Based on variations in texture, four types of thrombolite were identified: 1) distinct clotted thrombolite, 2) diffuse and regular clotted thrombolite, 3) diffuse and irregular clotted thrombolite, and 4) composite clotted thrombolite. Notably, the diffuse clotted thrombolitic dolomite is the prevalent lithology in the reservoir. Through modification by meteoric water, organic acid fluids, and hydrothermal fluids, a reservoir with dominant porosity in the form of primary growth-framework pores, dissolution pores, and vugs was formed. This resulted in the development of two high-quality reservoir intervals within the Second Member and at the top of the Fourth Member of the Dengying Formation. The growth-framework porosity of the thrombolites, epigenetic karstification, and tectonic fracturing were mainly conducive to reservoir development. However, various types of cementation have reduced porosity and connectivity within the reservoir. Overall, this study is a valuable example of the methodology required to understand meso- and microstructures of deep-buried thrombolitic dolomite reservoirs, including their heterogeneities and diagenesis, as the original structures influence diagenesis.

In recent years, natural gas discoveries have been continuously made in the first member of the Permian Maokou Formation in the Sichuan Basin, bringing attention to the genesis mechanism of marlstone reservoir space. Centimeter-scale fracture-cavity type reservoir space is one of the newly discovered types in the first member of the Maokou Formation, and relevant research has not been publicly reported. Taking well A1 in the Sichuan Basin as an example, based on core observation and description, the characteristics and genesis of fracture-cavity fillings were studied through comparative analysis of microscopic petrology, carbon-oxygen isotopes, strontium isotopes, and trace elements. The similar distribution characteristics of carbon-oxygen isotopes and strontium isotopes between calcite cement and mudstone matrix in the fractures of the first member of the Maokou Formation indicated that calcite mainly came from the dissolution and redeposition of surrounding rocks. Compared with marlstone, the fracture calcite cement showed lower contents of valence elements (V, Cr, U, Mo) and rare earth elements (REE), while the content of micronutrient elements (Ni, Cu, Zn) increased, revealing the differential migration pattern of trace elements in this process. The differential variation characteristics of Mn and Sr contents between calcite and marl matrix revealed the marine affinity of diagenetic fluids, further indicating their independence from atmospheric freshwater and deep hydrothermal fluids. Since the Late Jurassic, lateral tectonic thrusting pressure has formed detachment faults and related fold systems in southeastern Sichuan, which potentially caused deformation of the Maokou Formation marlstone and the generation of centimeter-scale fracture spaces. Diagenetic fluids formed during subsequent compaction-dissolution processes (including lateral dissolution) provided material sources for quartz and calcite cement in the fractures.

The Lower Cretaceous Bashijiqike Formation, which is an important gas exploration target in the Kuqa Depression, Tarim Basin, China, is an excellent case illustrating the diagenesis and reservoir property variations of tight sandstone with burial depths ranging from 3500 m to 8000 m. Thus, integrated approaches incorporating thin-section petrographic characterization, mineral morphology and identification, X-ray diffraction analysis, reservoir property tests, and fluid inclusion analysis were applied to investigate the diagenesis and reservoir property variations of Bashijiqike sandstone with different burial depths. The main findings of this study were as follows. (1) Diagenesis of the Bashijiqike sandstone with a burial depth of less than 5000 m was mainly characterized by kaolinite, colloidal quartz, euhedral quartz, and the dissolution of feldspar, whereas diagenesis of the sandstone with a burial depth of more than 5000 m was primarily distinguished by albite, dolomite, calcite, illite, and chlorite. (2) The porosity and permeability rapidly decreased as the burial depth increased within the range of less than 5000 m, while they slowly decreased as the burial depth increased within the range of more than 5000 m, indicating that the reservoir properties have a nonlinear correlation with the burial depths ranging from 3500 m to 8000 m. (3) During the late stage of the Himalayan movement, the enhanced compaction of Bashijiqike sandstone with the increased burial depth resulted in a decrease in the number of intergranular pores, whereas the dissolution of feldspar and quartz led to the formation of secondary pores. Taken together, the findings of this study indicate that the Himalayan movement after the Neogene resulted in burial depth variations with regard to the studied sandstone, which represents the key controlling factor for both its diagenesis and its reservoir properties.

The paper evaluates an efficiency of the existing rock typing methods for diagenetically modified carbonate reservoirs and proposes a new alternative rock typing index.Four existing rock typing techniques are applied to the target formation, subjected to considerable diagenetic alterations. Applied techniques do not provide sufficient results in terms of reliable correlation between porosity, permeability and irreducible water saturation, which is crucial for geological modelling. Therefore, a new rock typing index named KØS and calculated as a function of permeability (k), porosity (φ) and irreducible water saturation (Swir) is proposed for proper characterization of the carbonate formation. Contribution of depositional and diagenetic processes and associated microfeatures into parameters of the index is demonstrated by means of X-ray microCT and NMR experimental data.Comparative analysis of the proposed index with the existing ones shows that the KØS-derived rock types demonstrate the highest correlation coefficients between the key reservoir parameters. The defined rock types have distinguishable microstructures that confirm validity of the rock classification approach.All the entities of the KØS index are used for reserves calculations and commonly measured during routine core analysis: this enables its implementation at the most carbonate fields.

The proposed method of predicting spatial distribution of leaching zones in carbonate reservoirs includes integrated interpretation of well logging data, including electrical microimages (Formation MicroImager – FMI), together with analysis of lithofacies within depositional cycles. Based on the comparison of FMI data with results of lithological and petrophysical studies of the core, an atlas of diagenetic porosity images for the studied formation was developed. Choquette and Pray international classification was used for pore typing. Applying the developed atlas to FMI logs, karstification zones were identified and classified in reference wells. In wells, where only standard well loggings was performed, karstification zones were identified using a developed decision tree. Sedimentological and sequence stratigraphic analysis made it possible to identify sedimentation cycles and to correlate the main lithofacies within the target reservoir. It was established that microbial and shallow facies form the most productive part of the reservoir. These facies with initially high primary porosity were subjected to the most intensive karstification along sequence stratigraphic boundaries due to subaerial exposure. The established relationships between leaching zones, lithofacies, and sequence-stratigraphic boundaries made it possible to carry out inter-well correlation of karstified intervals. The correlation will allow construction of leaching zones maps, that will be further applied for geological modeling.

Objective Defining the distribution of sweet spots in tight reservoirs is the focus of tight oil and gas exploration. Methods Using core observation, thin section identification, X-ray diffraction, homogenization temperature measurements of inclusions, and conventional physical property analysis, the sedimentary characteristics, reservoir characteristics, and diagenesis of Upper Palaeozoic tight sandstones in the Binchang area, southern Ordos Basin were studied in detail.The main controlling factors of reservoir formation were identified and the development model of high-quality reservoirs was established. Results The results show that sedimentary facies are the basis of reservoir formation, and the core beach microfacies of the braided river delta plain have coarse grain sizes, small pore-medium-fine throat pore structures, and relatively good reservoir physical properties. The underwater distributary channel and estuary bar in front of the meandering river delta have fine grain sizes and pore throat structures of micropore-microat throat pore structure, and the reservoir's physical properties are relatively poor. Diagenesis plays an important role in controlling the development and distribution of high-quality reservoirs. Intermittent volcanic tuff is transformed into kaolinite in acidic strata and altered into chlorite sheaths in alkaline strata, which inhibits quartz overgrowth and calcite cementation and protects the reservoir space. The secondary enlargement of quartz is mainly caused by the leaching of SiO2 from mudstone to sandstone.The main reasons for the cementation of calcite roof and floor are the filling of feldspar and the dissolution of cuttings in the middle and late stages of calcite. The microfractures formed by late tectonic transformation have no calcite cementation, which improves the physical properties of the reservoir and plays an adjusting role in the gas reservoir. There are two solution pore development zones near burial depths of 3 750 m and 3 900 m in the Binchang area. The optimal reservoir is the medium-coarse-grained sandstone rich in chlorite mantle formed by the transformation of volcanic tuffaceous matter in the dissolution pore development zone. The sub-optimal reservoir is mainly distributed in the middle and lower parts of the sand body with a greater single-body thickness, cyclicity and no mudstone interval in the dissolution pore development zone.This zone is composed mainly of medium-coarse-grained sandstone lacking chlorite film, calcite cementation and secondary enlargement of quartz are the lowest. Conclusion These research results further increase the understanding of the genesis of the development of high-quality tight sandstone reservoirs in the Upper Palaeozoic, providing important guidance for natural gas exploration and development in this area.

Wenchang A oilfield is a recently discovered low-permeability oilfield in the western South China Sea. The exploration target is the Zhuhai Formation, which reservoir lithology changes significantly, and the distribution of favorable reservoirs is unclear. In this study, the reservoir characteristics of the Zhuhai Formation in the Wenchang A oilfield, South China Sea, were analyzed through core identification, thin section identification, physical property testing, prestack geostatistical inversion, and frequency-based AVO inversion. Pre-stack geostatistical inversion is based on geostatistics and combines the seismic inversion algorithm with the stochastic sequential simulation algorithm. While the frequency-varying AVO inversion method is an extension of the conventional AVO inversion method, with its core technology being spectrum decomposition. After frequency division, multiple data sets directly participate in the calculation, which enhances the stability and accuracy of inversion.We also predict the favorable reservoir areas of six small layers in the Zhuhai Formation. The results show that 1) the reservoir lithology of the Zhuhai Formation mainly consists of feldspar quartz sandstone and feldspar quartz sandstone, indicating high compositional maturity. The porosity of the reservoir ranges from 14.0% to 19.0%, with an average value of 16.3%. The permeability of the reservoir ranges from 3.1 mD to 126.1 mD, with an average value of 22.4 mD, indicating a medium porosity and low permeability reservoir. The supporting structure of a sandstone reservoir is particle-supported, with the main contact being the "point-line" contact between particles. The main types of pores in sandstone are primary intergranular pores and secondary intergranular dissolved pores. Some pores are feldspar-dissolved pores, and occasionally there are hetero-based micropore. 2) The diagenesis of the Zhuhai Formation reservoir mainly includes compaction, cementation, and dissolution. Cementation and dissolution have minimal impact on the physical properties of reservoirs. The porosity loss of the reservoir after compaction ranges between 16.0% and 27.9%, and the compaction rate ranges between 40.0% and 69.8%, indicating a medium compaction diagenetic facies. 3) The favorable areas of each layer of the Zhuhai Formation are mainly concentrated in the southwest of the study area. The upper layer of ZH1I, the upper layer of ZH1II and the lower layer of ZH1II exhibit the best physical properties, the thickest favorable sand body, the strongest oil and gas display, the widest range of favorable areas, and the greatest exploration potential. The favorable exploration potential of layer 1 in the lower part of ZH1I and layer 2 in the upper part of ZH1II is moderate. The second layer in the lower part of ZH1II has the poorest properties and lower exploration potential. The main factors affecting the favorable area include physical properties, oil and gas display, sand body thickness, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The upper member of the Lower Ganchaigou Formation (UMoLGF) is a highpotential hydrocarbon exploration area in the North margin of the Qaidam Basin (NMoQB). It represents a typical low-permeability sandstone reservoir. The current understanding of reservoir characteristics of the UMoLGF is poor, and the main controlling factors of high-quality reservoir development remaining unclear. This study, for the first time, integrated various factors to investigate the formation mechanism of high-quality reservoirs in the UMoLGF's low-permeability sandstone reservoirs. Results show three provenance systems developed in the study area: northwest, northeast, and east. The northwestern and northeastern areas share similar reservoir characteristics. The rock type is predominantly feldspar, with relatively poor particle sorting and rounding. Pore types are dominated by secondary dissolution pores. However, the northwestern area has more developed fractures and poorer pore structures than the northeastern. Meanwhile, in the eastern area, the rock fragment content was high, the rock type was mainly litharentie and lithic arkose, particles were well-sorted and well-rounded. Residual intergranular pores, with good structures, dominated the pore type. The UMoLGF has entered the eo-diagenesis B stage with minor progression into the meso-diagenesis A stage. Based on quantitive calculations, this study established porosity evolution models for the different study areas. The initial porosities in the northwestern, northeastern, and eastern areas were 30.8%, 30.4%, and 34.8%, respectively. Compaction and cementation are the major factors contributing to porosity reduction in the three areas, with the most significant impact in the northwestern area. Dissolution significantly improved the reservoir properties in the northwestern area, with little effect on the northeastern and eastern areas. The formation of high-quality reservoir in the UMoLGF was affected by provenance, diagenesis, and fractures, with the primary controlling factors varying by area. In the northwestern area, the formation of high-quality reservoirs benefited from strong dissolution and well-developed fractures. In the northeastern area, the high-quality reservoir was relied upon favorable provenance and dissolution. In the eastern area, provenance provided an excellent material basis for developing high-quality reservoirs, with dissolution and chlorite cementation further improving reservoir properties. This study provides a theoretical foundation for further exploration and development of UMoLGF and offers insights for exploring and developing similar low-permeability sandstone reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first record of well-preserved chondrocranial elements in mosasaurids is here described. These elements are preserved in situ in a Coniacian skull found in north-central Colombia, inside a calcareous concretion. Based on a 3D model generated from computed tomography scans, we identified elements of the nasal and orbitotemporal regions. Our descriptions show that in this specimen, the chondrocranium was reduced, more so than in most lacertilians (including their closest recent relatives, the varanids), but not as severely as in snakes or amphisbaenians (which have an extremely reduced chondrocranium and limbs). The new evidence suggests that the reduction in the chondrocranium in mosasaurids could be related to modification of their limbs when adapting to aquatic environments, but also that in mosasaurids, the olfactory tract was reduced, and the optic muscle insertions occurred mainly in the interorbital septum. The exceptional preservation of the chondrocranial elements in the specimen is facilitated by a gray mineralization covering them. XRD analysis and thin section observations indicated that this mineralization is composed of microcrystalline quartz and calcite. We infer that this material was produced by a partial silicification process promoted by lower pH microenvironments associated with bacterial breakdown of non-biomineralized tissues during early diagenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]