This is a past event
Please join us for an Earth Science research seminar to be given by Dr Brian Burnham on "Application of lidar and 3D geologic modelling techniques to quantify spatial and architectural relationships from fluvial outcrops". The seminar will take place on Thursday, 25th January at 13:00 in Meston Lecture Theatre 2. All are welcome to attend.
Abstract
Outcrop analogue studies allow detailed investigation of geometry and architecture of sandstone bodies within fluvial systems. The accurate characterization of the stratigraphic architecture of fluvially dominated depositional systems is fundamental to define geometric relationships, heterogeneity, and lithologic trends, which in turn can be used to improve petroleum reservoir models. The Oligocene - Miocene Huesca fluvial fan, in the Ebro Basin in Spain, is a well-documented stratigraphic succession that has been studied as an outcrop analogue for hydrocarbon reservoirs. The La Serreta section in this system presents well-exposed fluvial channel-fill sandstone bodies that reflect the vertical and horizontal heterogeneity within the medial (mid-fan) portion of a large fluvial fan.
This study utilizes quantitative lidar acquisition and processing techniques to create accurate three-dimensional digital outcrop models of 2km2 of the cliff sections in northeast Spain. The large quantitative dataset is integrated with traditional field measurements (i.e. sedimentary logs) to further constrain spatial heterogeneity of the fluvial elements within the generated models. The inherent quantitative nature of the dataset allowed accurate 3D interpretations of sandstone bodies within a small section of outcrop. This has allowed extraction of relevant geostatistics for analysis and comparison with similar fluvial systems to test the efficacy of digital outcrop models and the associated interpretation techniques used on suitable outcrop analogues. This talk will present results that illustrate an improved methodology for accurate approximation of sandstone body widths, thicknesses, and subsequent spatial distribution of fluvial sandstone bodies within a well-exposed section of a preserved fluvial fan.
- Venue
- Meston Lecture Theatre 2