Basin Evolution and Geochemical Modeling
Paleozoic source rocks
Postdoctoral research by Dr Sebastian Luning, Stephan Lubesder and Dr Jonathan Redfern
Background:
Assessing the source rock quality of Palaeozoic shales from outcrop studies has proved difficult due to intense weathering. The project includes the analysis of a number of methods to allow more accurate regional mapping of source rock facies including surface exposures.
Methodology:
Based on their characteristic uranium gamma-radiation and pyrite framboid distribution, it is attempted to map the original organic richness of the Silurian / Upper Devonian shales in weathered outcrops, e.g. in Morocco, Algeria or Libya. Further details in Lüning et al. (2003b).
Fieldwork has been carried in November 2003 in the Moroccan Anti-Atlas where the Frasnian and Silurian hot shales have been studied in outcrops by portable gamma-ray spectrometer. The unit is typically marked by an enrichment in uranium. Additional fieldtrips to Ghat (SW Libya) and Algeria are planned. An analogue study is carried out for the Silurian hot shales of Jordan.
Duration: 1 year
Key references;
Lüning, S., Craig, J., Loydell, D. K., Storch, P. & Fitches, W. R. (2000): Lowermost Silurian 'hot shales' in North Africa and Arabia: Regional Distribution and depositional model. Earth Science Reviews 49: 121-200.
Lüning, S., Adamson, K., Craig, J. (2003a): Frasnian ‘Hot Shales' in North Africa: Regional Distribution and Depositional Model. In: Arthur, T. J., Macgregor, D. S., Cameron, N. (Eds.), Petroleum Geology of Africa: New Themes and developing technologies, Geol. Soc. (London) Sp. Publ. 207: 165-184.
Lüning, S., S. Kolonic, D. Loydell, J. Craig (2003b): Reconstruction of the original organic richness in weathered Silurian shale outcrops (Murzuq and Kufra basins, southern Libya). GeoArabia 8: 299-308.
Lüning, S., S. Kolonic, E. M. Belhadj, Z. Belhadj, L. Cota, G. Baric, T. Wagner (2004): Integrated depositional model for the Cenomanian-Turonian organic-rich strata in North Africa. Earth-Science Reviews 64: 51-117.