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A sensitivity study on the numerical model of displacement and deformation of embedded brittle rock bodies in extension environment during salt tectonics

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Abstract

Many salt bodies contain large rock inclusions (called stringers) such as carbonate or anhydrite bodies. Mostly, large rock inclusions embedded in salt bodies have different ways of movement and deformation, including displacement, folding and fracturing. A finite element model with adaptive remeshing has been built for downbuilding simulation. The standard model set-up is constrained by observations from the South Oman Salt Basin. Based on the generic model in the previous research which shows the fracture, overtrusting or folding deformation during downbuilding process, a sensitivity study has been conducted on the numerical model of the deformation and displacement of brittle rock bodies, including the parameters such as the initial depth and the distance between them. The results of simulation are analyzed based on the data from SOSB and Zechstein salt basin. The study shows that the frequency of the break and the size of stringer fragments are strongly affected by the initial depth and thickness of stringers and the basement configuration.

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Acknowledgment

We greatly appreciate the help of Janos Urai, Steffen Abe, Heijn van Gent, Frank Strozyk, and Lars Reuning with this research. Our sincere thanks also go to Petroleum Development Oman for their contribution to the research. The research is funded by the startup project of China University of Petroleum, Beijing (No. 2462014YJRC041), and supported by the Science Foundation of China University of Petroleum, Beijing (No. C201601).

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  1. School of Petroleum Engineering, China University of Petroleum, Fuxue Road 18, Beijing, 102249, China

    Shiyuan Li

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  1. Shiyuan Li
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Correspondence to Shiyuan Li.

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Li, S. A sensitivity study on the numerical model of displacement and deformation of embedded brittle rock bodies in extension environment during salt tectonics. Arab J Geosci 9, 680 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12517-016-2700-7

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