Seismic and Lithological Characterization and Source Rock Potential of the Aptian Naskapi Shale Member, Logan Canyon Formation, Offshore Nova Scotia

Abstract

The fluvial-deltaic successions of the Cretaceous Logan Canyon Formation in the Sable Subbasin, offshore Nova Scotia, have been one of the main sources of hydrocarbon production for decades. The distal and laterally equivalent strata of the Logan Canyon Formation (Aptian – Albian) are transgressive shale sequences within the sand-rich successions, appearing to correspond to global oceanic anoxic events (OAEs). The Aptian Naskapi Member of the Logan Canyon Formation is one of these shale sequences, and the focus of this study. The distal Cretaceous/Jurassic shale section offshore Nova Scotia is considered source rock, although it is uncertain whether there are sufficient concentrations of strata with elevated total organic carbon (TOC) values to form the continuous fluid phase necessary for effective hydrocarbon generation and migration. When comparing existing levels of TOC from the Scotian Basin with those from OAEs elsewhere, the Cretaceous Naskapi Member exhibits lower levels of organic matter.