3D seismic analysis of karstified interbedded carbonates and evaporites, Lower Permian Gipsdalen Group, Loppa High, southwestern Barents Sea

Morten Ahlborn, Lars Stemmerik, Trond Kristian Kalstø

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer-review

25 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This paper presents a detailed seismic analysis of a hitherto undescribed Permian succession interpreted to consist of interbedded anhydrite and carbonate from the northern flank of the Loppa High, western Barents Sea. The Fafner succession forms a locally restricted transgressive unit down-dip on the rotated Loppa High. It is subdivided into four seismic sequences each interpreted to be composed of a basal transgressive anhydrite overlain by highstand carbonates. Fafner seismic sequences 2 and 3 include well-developed buildup complexes which in map view form polygonal patterns.Analysis of attribute maps indicates that the Fafner succession is overprinted by two dissolution systems related to two prominent events of subaerial exposure, creating numerous paleo-sinkholes, breccia-pipes, and collapsed composite cavern systems. The stratigraphical position of the Fafner succession, below the Mid Sakmarian - Artinskian Bjarmeland Group and above the Top Ørn unconformity, resembles that of the Lower Permian Gipshuken Formation on Spitsbergen, and the Fafner succession is thus regarded as its offshore equivalent.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)16-33
Number of pages18
JournalMarine and Petroleum Geology
Volume56
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2014
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • 3D seismic interpretation
  • Carbonates
  • Hydrocarbon exploration
  • Karst
  • Seismic attributes
  • Seismic stratigraphy
  • The Barents Sea
  • Upper Paleozoic

Programme Area

  • Programme Area 3: Energy Resources

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