Application of high-precision gravity in fracture identification: a case study of the Miquan region of the Junggar Basin
Jiang Ning, Li Zhu-qiang*, Wang Yin, Bao Yi, and Wang Jun*
1. Jiangsu East China 814 Geophysical Exploration Co., Ltd., Nanjing 210007, Jiangsu, China
2. Jiangsu Geological Bureau, Nanjing 210001, Jiangsu, China
3. Exploration and Development Research Institute, Shengli Oilfield Company, SINOPEC, Dongying 257000, China
4. School of Resources and Geosciences, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221116, China
5. SINOPEC Geophysical Research Institute Co. Ltd, SINOPEC, Nanjing Jiangsu 211103, China
Abstract The gravity gradient anomaly zone is produced due to density differences on both sides of a fault. Tracking of extreme points enables the characterization and description of fault locations. However, for some deep-seated faults with large burial depths and secondary faults with moderate burial depths, the gravity horizontal total gradient anomaly must be enhanced using the concept of dip angle to strengthen the weak anomaly extraction for the identification of more fault information. This method was used to predict five regional deep-seated faults and six secondary faults in the Miquan region. The fracture plane extends in a near north-northeast direction; that is, it mostly expands out of the study area, spreads out in a trumpet shape to the southwest, and converges to the northeast. Fracture activity is an important factor in controlling structural units or local structures. The Miquan block is located in a complex structural zone in front of the Bogeda Mountains, which have very complex surface and subsurface geological conditions, and seismic data are unideal. Therefore, fracture prediction results using gravity data are important in-depth understanding of the structure in this area.
Fund: This work was supported by the Sinopec Science and Technology Research Project (No. P22161 and No. 24029).
Corresponding Authors: Li Zhu-qiang(email: 276414616@qq.com), Wang Jun(email: wangjun.swty@sinopec.com).
E-mail: 276414616@qq.com&wangjun.swty@sinopec.com
About author: Jiang Ning, Senior Engineer, is currently employed by Jiangsu East China 814 Geophysical Exploration Co., Ltd.. He mainly engages in the collection, processing, interpretation, and comprehensive research of non-seismic geophysical exploration related to oil, gas, and mineral resources, including gravity, magnetic, and electromagnetic methods.
Email: 119846077@qq.com
Cite this article:
. Application of high-precision gravity in fracture identification: a case study of the Miquan region of the Junggar Basin[J]. APPLIED GEOPHYSICS, 2024, 21(4): 869-877.
2024, Vol. 21 
