Shoal-to-Strata Ratio Technique and Its Use in Describing Carbonate Rock Sedimentary Facies in the Eastern Sichuan Basin

The requirements for the accurate characterization of shoal sediments have increased in view of the fact that strata are eroded due to uplift and it is difficult to calculate the real thickness of granular shoal. To solve this problem, with the shoal-to-strata ratio, the type and distribution range of carbonate rock shoal facies are described, and the characterization of sedimentary facies is subsequently presented. Taking the P(2)m(2)a in Eastern Sichuan as an example, the following conclusions were obtained. (1) The primary rock types of the shoal facies of the P(2)m(2)a are bioclastic limestone and micrite limestone. The logging facies of platform margin shoals, intra-platform high-energy shoals, intra-platform low-energy shoals, and sloping low-energy shoals are large funnel-type, small funnel-type, box-type, and finger-like, respectively. The platform margin shoals and intra-platform high-energy shoals are imbricate seismic facies, and the intra-platform low-energy shoals and sloping low-energy shoals are S-type progradation seismic facies and oblique progradation. (2) The shoal-to-strata ratio of platform margin shoals is the highest, followed by intra-platform high-energy shoals, intra-platform low-energy shoals, and sloping low-energy shoals. (3) Shoal facies deposits have a certain controlling effect on gas production, and platform margin shoals have greater exploration potential. (4) This example shows that in the areas where carbonate rock strata are eroded, compared with the method of characterizing the sedimentary facies of carbonate rock using the shoal thickness, the shoal-to-strata ratios are more accurate. (5) The planar distribution diagram of the shoal-to-strata ratio can be used as a supporting map for compiling sedimentary facies maps. This method is worth applying in related research fields.