Carbonate diagenesis

Cambridge Carbonates offer expertise in carbonate diagenesis, plus the description and interpretation of microfacies.

We produce diagenetic models which provide key results such as timing of fluid flow and evolution of reservoir properties throughout the entire diagenetic history. Resultant diagenetic models are useful to optimise the understanding of rock types.

To achieve these studies, we follow a well-defined workflow integrating:

  • Macroscopic qualitative and quantitative observations (cores and/or outcrops).
  • Microscopic qualitative and quantitative investigations (observations on stained thin sections, cathodoluminescence, SEM).
  • Geochemistry (stable C & O isotopes, Sr isotopes, trace/major elements) and thermometry (fluid inclusion analysis), keeping in mind the constraint provided by the sequence stratigraphic framework and burial history.

Diagenetic and Petrographic Workflow - Example

1. Outcrop observations

2. Core analysis

3. Petrographic investigation

4. Advanced petrographic analysis e.g. Cathodoluminescence (CL)

5. Application of geochemical and thermometric techniques e.g. fluid inclusion and oxygen isotope analysis

6. Production of paragenetic sequences: based on the findings from 1-5.

7. Burial history and sequence stratigraphy integration - provide crucial constraints for placing the paragenetic sequence into a reservoir/basin history.