Tectono-stratigraphic development of the Cenozoic sedimentary succession of the shallow water Norwegian Sea

Abstract

The understanding of Cenozoic sedimentary succession in the Norwegian Sea (62°N- 69°N) has proven to be important in petroleum exploration endeavors in the Norwegian Sea. The purpose of this study was to improve the understanding of the dynamics of the Cenozoic depositional and sedimentary system of the mid-Norwegian Continental Shelf. This study includes a seismic stratigraphic and seismic facies analysis on a mega-regional 3D seismic survey and seventeen exploration wells on quadrants 6507, 6508, 6607 and 6608.

The Cenozoic succession formed as a response to a complex interplay between a set of diverse controlling factors, such as tectonics, climate, sediment supply and accommodation space. Seven seismic sequences and six seismic facies were identified and mapped based on reflector terminations and internal reflector configuration. The bounding surfaces between these sequences include Regional Downlap Surface (RDS), Unconformity Clinoform Surface (UCS) and Upper Regional Unconformity (URU).

Sedimentation rates changed through time, mostly depending on glacial activity and relative sea level changes. A model for the tectono-stratigraphic development for the Norwegian Sea is proposed, incorporating major bounding surfaces, tectonics, eustacy and climatic changes.