RT Journal Article
T1 Sedimentology and sequence stratigraphy of a Tithonian–Valanginian carbonate ramp (Vaca Muerta Formation): A misunderstood exceptionalsource rock in the Southern Mendoza area of the NeuquénBasin, Argentina
A1 Kietzmann, Diego A.
A1 Palma, Ricardo Manuel
A1 Riccardi, A.C.
A1 Martín Chivelet, Javier
A1 López Gómez, José
AB The Vaca Muerta Formation (early Tithonian–early Valanginian) is a rhythmic succession of marls and limestones, cropping out in the Neuquén Basin, west-central Argentina. This lithostratigraphic unit was traditionally interpreted as basinal to slope deposits. Detailed facies analysis allows to differentiate seven facies associations, representing basinal to middle ramp facies of a homoclinal ramp system prograding westward from the eastern margin, and slope facies attributed to a distally steepened rampsystemthat progrades eastward fromthe Andean volcanic arc in the west. Two sequence hierarchies are recognized: five third order depositional sequences, and fifteen fourth order high-frequency sequences. Fluctuations in organic matter content within the Vaca Muerta Formation suggest relationship with depositional sequences, finding the highest values associated with transgressive systemtracts. This work represents an important advance in the understanding of the sedimentary and stratigraphic evolution of this exceptional unconventional reservoir. Our sequence stratigraphic approach contributes to the understanding of the relationship between organic matter, facies, and sea-level changes.
PB Elsevier
SN 0037-0738
YR 2014
FD 2014
LK https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14352/34149
UL https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14352/34149
LA eng
DS Docta Complutense
RD 25 dic 2025