Geological and geophysical studies for assessing the energy potential of transitional (land-sea) zones of the Azov-Black Sea region
Abstract
The article is devoted to the need for comprehensive geological and geophysical research in the transitional zones (land-sea) of the Southern region of Ukraine (Western Black Sea region and Kerch Peninsula), since these territories have high energy potential. These zones, covering more than 30,000 km², are strategically important for the search for hydrocarbons, but are extremely difficult for standard seismic exploration due to special physical-geographical and technogenic conditions. The research is of crucial importance for reducing the risk of "dry" drilling and attracting investments, as well as for solving engineering and security issues in the context of post-war reconstruction.
A detailed analysis of two key regions - the Western Black Sea region and the Kerch Peninsula - was conducted. Thus, three areas were identified in the Western Black Sea region. The most promising is the area from Lake Sasyk to Lake Alibey with a predicted density of unexplored reserves of 20-30 thousand t.u.p. per 1 km², where the main prospects are associated with Paleozoic (Silurian, Devonian, Carboniferous) and Mesozoic deposits. The Kerch Peninsula, confined to the Indo-Kuban rift, is one of the most promising areas (20-30 thousand t.u.p. per 1 km²). Oil and gas bearing capacity has been proven in Neogene (Torton) and Oligocene deposits, and is also predicted in older complexes (Cretaceous, Jurassic).
In the conditions of the transitional zones of the North-Eastern part of the Kerch Peninsula (Kerch Bay - Sea of Azov), the State Enterprise "Ukrgeofizika" successfully carried out MSGT 2D seismic prospecting work (2009-2011). 5 profiles with a total length of 43.64 km were investigated, which cross anticlinal structures, in particular, the Veliko-Tarkhansky and Baksy mud volcanoes. The obtained migrated time sections allowed to recreate in detail the geological structure of the transition zone and the structure of mud volcanoes, confirming their connection with anticlinal folds. Mud volcanism is a key feature of probable hydrocarbon deposits, since volcanic gases (up to 96% methane) indicate the migration of hydrocarbons from deep layers.
Seismic methods (especially 3D seismic exploration) are the only effective tool for detecting and delineating promising structures in transition zones. Comprehensive geophysical study of these areas is critically important not only for the realization of Ukraine's energy potential, but also for engineering geophysics (mapping weak soils, designing anti-slide structures) and seismic microdistricting (due to the activity of the Vrancea zone), providing the basis for sustainable development of transport infrastructure and safety of coastal areas.
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