Remote sensing and field analysis of the Palaeozoic structural style in NW Libya: The Qarqaf arch a paleo-transfer fault zone between the Ghadamis and Murzuq basins

Chorowicz, J.; Benissa, Mahmoud

doi:10.1016/j.jafrearsci.2016.08.008

Cited by 8 publications

(2 citation statements)

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“…Altogether these extension trends evidence a homogeneous stress field trending mainly NNE-SSW, which should be also that initiating later the formation of the Hon graben. Compared to the main NW-SE orientation of the Hon graben, it appears that this trough started its evolution by an oblique opening, which is a frequent case for graben [21].…”

Section: ) Tension Fracturesmentioning

confidence: 90%

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Tectonic Analysis of the Al Hamadah Al Hamra Plateau of the Ghadamis Basin (NW Libya): Hydrological Network, Sinkholes, Folds and Fractures. Style of Reactivation and Setting of Cenozoic Volcanism

Benissa¹,

Chorowicz²

2019

IJG

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Remote sensing analysis is an efficient tool for updating geological maps. The regional scale map obtained in this project from compilation of the pre-existing maps and of a number of space images is somewhat more complete. It takes into account the usual field and laboratory parameters of the rock units, through the previous geologic maps, together with remote sensing parameters such as spectral signatures, textures, roughness, morphology that are observed from optical, microwave and DEM imagery. With more rock characteristics, the old maps are obligatory improved. The Cenozoic faulting in the Al Hamra al Hamadah plateau is largely influenced by the tectonics affecting the Paleozoic oil bearing structures that are hidden by the late Cretaceous-Paleocene layers. The tectonic style is that of reactivation of the Paleozoic faults under effects of the NNE-trending regional tension. Then the faults on the surface of the plateau would indicate location of the hidden Paleozoic faults in depth. A flat plateau, in the arid environment, appears to be a very favorable environment for mapping of gentle folds, faults and tectonic sinkholes. Remote sensing is a fruitful approach in this case study. The gentle anticlines for instance are undetectable in the field, but computer assisted shadowing with a low elevation angle of illumination is the key processing for evidencing these features. Problems of drillings in the area are well known for example to Waha, AGOCO and PB Companies during their exploration activities in the concessions in Ghadames Basin. According to them several incidents of losing drilling Pits have occurred and drilling came into a hole.

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Section: ) Tension Fracturesmentioning

confidence: 90%

“…Comparing (Figure 15) and (Figure 29), [21] The style of reactivation however is unclear. According to our observations along wadi Hawaz, few movements had occurred during deposition of the late Cretaceous-Paleocene sediments, over unstable Palaeozoic faults.…”

Section: Reactivation Of Palaeozoic Faultsmentioning

confidence: 99%