Oligocene, Gulf Coast, Gulf of Mexico (11)

Comments on Geologic Parameters

11 Flow Direction:

Flow direction within the Frio is complex, and interpretation of major- and minor-element chemistry does not unequivocally support a single interpretation of brine origin. Generally fluids are being expelled from the Gulf Coast basin because of compaction in this depocenter, and deeper sections are overpressured. Overprinted on this system is fresh water moved downdip during higher hydrologic gradients during Pleistocene sea-level lowstand and depressurizing as a result of oil and associated brine production.

11 Map:

11 Reference:

Kreitler, C. W., Akhter, M. S., Donnelly, A. C. A, and Wood, W. T., 1988, Hydrology of formations for deep-well injection, Texas Gulf Coast: The University of Texas at Austin, Bureau of Economic Geology, unpublished contract report, 204 p.