IAP-24-047

Multiscale interpretations of the internal complexity of evaporite sequences from mine workings, borehole and seismic data

The unique behaviour of evaporite lithologies, particularly their buoyant and ductile characteristics that enable them to flow and deform under pressure, results in structurally complex and heterogeneous sequences. Laterally extensive evaporite sequences are commonly interbedded with sequences of halite and other evaporite and non-evaporite (e.g., carbonate) lithologies. The extensive existing research on salt tectonics has frequently focused on salt structures (e.g. Stewart, 2007), with less focus on intra-salt deformation. There has been a limited emphasis on distinguishing the variation in the intra-salt deformation across multiple scales. Often, the ability to discern the internal deformation of an evaporite sequence is constrained by the quality of available seismic reflection data. Although advancements in seismic imaging of evaporite sequences and evolutions in interpreting their internal structural heterogeneity (e.g., Barnett et al., 2024) have been made, a comprehensive understanding of the internal complexity cannot be achieved solely through seismic data.

This project will principally focus on making using of a truly unique datasets of seismic and borehole data from across and adjacent to the Boulby Underground Laboratory (BUL). What makes this a truly unique opportunity is to integrate the geophysical data with underground field mapping within BUL.

This project aims to provide new insights into the internal complexity of evaporite sequences through the integrated interpretation and modelling of geophysical and geological data. The goal is to improve our ability to interpret and predict the internal complexity of evaporite sequences. The objectives are to:

1) Integrate seismic interpretations with borehole data to constrain kilometre to decimetre scale heterogeneity
2) Undertake detailed field mapping with the BUL to characterise the decimetre to centimetre scale heterogeneities.
3) Integrate the interpretations across scales to constrain lithology predictions as part of seismic inversion workflows.

The project will involve the interpretation of geological and geophysical data. It will involve the unconventional fieldwork through the observation and interpretation of the internal structure of salt within the Boulby Underground Laboratory. This project will take an integrated approach to subsurface characterisation. It will involve the interpretation of 3D seismic reflection data, borehole logs and core. These interpretations will be complemented by detailed structural mapping from within the BUL. This will provide a unique muti-scale interpretation of the internal complexity of evaporite sequences. The project aims to integrate the findings from across the scales to constrain lithology predictions as part of seismic inversion workflows.

Year 1

Literature review, data identification and management, training in seismic interpretation, seismic and well interpretations.

Year 2

Fieldwork and core logging within Boulby Underground Laboratory and integrating these observations with the seismic interpretations

Year 3

Structural modelling based on the multiscale interpretations to investigate the ability to predict internal complexity of evaporites from seismic data.

Year 3.5

Write up and completion of thesis
Journal article preparation

Newcastle University has a faculty run postgraduate research development programme that follows the Vitae Researcher Development Framework focusing on: knowledge and intellectual abilities, personal effectiveness, research governance and organisation, engagement, and influence and impact. Each PhD student has a tailor made Personal Development Plan, with the expectations of them to take 60 credits in the first year and 40 credits in the second year.

The student will join the post graduate community in the School of Natural and Environmental Sciences. They will join have the opportunity to work alongside other researchers involved in a range of geo-energy projects and have the opportunity to be involved with Newcastle University’s Centre for Energy.

Training in the usage of specialist geophysical interoperation and geological modelling software will be provided.
The student will be part of the IAPETUS DTP which offers a multidisciplinary package of training focused around meeting the specific needs and requirements of each student, benefitting from the combined strength and expertise that is available across the partner organisations.