Sedimentological Model of Los Molles Formation (Cuyo Group, middle Jurassic) at Arroyo Carreri, Neuquen Basin

LÓPEZ CAJARAVILLE, T.; KIETZMANN, D.A.

Congreso; International Convention & Exhibition 2019; 2019

Submarine lobe and turbidite channel deposits are considered one of the main targets regarding the exploration, development, and appraisal of deep-water facies. Given the complexity of these sedimentary bodies, it is key factor to determine their facies to get a better understanding of the reservoir variability and distribution. The outcrops of Los Molles Formation at arroyo Carreri in the Neuquén Basin (western Argentina) represents an uninterrupted exposure of middle Jurassic (Upper Bajocian ? Lower Bathonian) siliciclastic marine strata, where only few brief studies where performed. A detailed sedimentological study was carried out in order to determine the processes related to the genesis of each element of this thick turbidite sequence. From distal to proximal, it includes the record of prodelta siltstones, turbidite lobes enclosed within prodelta strata, incised turbidite channels on delta-slope and lobe facies, and coarse delta front bars. A petrographical characterization of the main facies is presented and its relationship with the main source areas is also addressed.