Geodynamics and Structural Styles in Exploration (GEO58)

Description

Aim of this course is to improve the knowledge of geodynamics with emphasis on plate boundaries and deformation styles with an overview of different case-histories worldwide as well as the use of key geologic “prospecting” tools. It provides an overview of different geodynamic scenarios and associated structural styles and trap types. Participants will learn how to predict the geometry and characteristics of traps even if data is absent or conflicting. Practical interpretation skills on different case studies will be developed in exercises, especially on seismic sections. Predicting major trap types, starting from structural style of deformation and geodynamic context in order to decrease risk is one of the main goals of the course.

Course Level: Foundation / Skill
Duration: 5 days
Instructor: Gabriele Lena

Designed for you, if you are...

A geologist, geophysicist or engineer in the exploration team, keen to improve your knowledge of geosetting environments worldwide, to learn the methodology to interpret structural styles of deformation and to predict trap types

How we build your confidence

Worldwide examples of plate boundary and associated styles of deformation
2D-3D seismic interpretation in different geodynamic settings
Field log based interpretation as analog example
Case histories to demonstrate the applications and efficacy of structural style setting analysis to predict trap style and geometry

The benefits from attending

By the end of the course you will feel confident in your understanding of:

The main types of geosettings all over the world and the leading mechanisms responsible for the different geodynamic regimes
The link between plate tectonics, structural geology and petroleum geology, from a geodynamic point of view
Major structural styles of deformation and associated trap styles for predicting geometry with lack of data
Interpreting 2D-3D seismic data, coupled with geophysical/well datasets

Topics

Plate tectonics and plate kinematics
Structural styles and comparative structural geology
Role of stratigraphy and major anisotropy in the development of structures
Plate tectonics habitats respect of structural styles
Constructive plate boundaries, extensional tectonics and associated structural styles
Conservative plate boundaries, transform plate boundaries and associated structural style
Destructive plate boundaries and compressional tectonics and associated structural style
Focus on Fold and Thrust belt - thin skinned vs. thick skinned tectonics
Inversion and basement involvement
Salt and Halokinesis
Plate tectonics and petroleum geology
Petroleum structural geology
Exploration projects and derisking using geosetting prediction criteria