3D topological analysis in deformation bands: Insights for structural characterization and impact on permeability

• Published in: Journal of structural geology Vol. 176; p. 104959
• Main Authors: Freitas, Raquel Bezerra Rodrigues de Melo, Nogueira, Francisco Cézar Costa, Vasconcelos, David Lino, Honório, Gabriel de Brito, Nicchio, Matheus Amador, Stohler, Rômulo de Campos, Souza, Jorge André Braz de
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01-11-2023
• Subjects: Deformation bands; Fluid flow; Permeability; Topology; Deformation bands; Topology; Permeability; Fluid flow
• ISSN: 0191-8141; 1873-1201
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jsg.2023.104959

This study uses a 3D exposure of a fault zone in the Rio do Peixe Basin (NE Brazil) to investigate the impact of deformation band connection on permeability in porous sandstones. We analyze the topological deformation band distribution pattern and in situ permeability measurements. The results show that more Y-nodes dominate the fault core, while the damage zone registers more Y- and X-nodes. The I-nodes are associated with the highest permeability values, while X-nodes have lower values close to the fault core. In the damage zone, permeability acquisition on segment intersections (nodes) varies according to the type of node and directions (horizontal and vertical) of measurements. The vertical section (horizontal permeability) shows maximum values for I-nodes and minimum for X-nodes, whereas the horizontal section (vertical permeability) exhibits higher permeabilities for I-nodes and the lowest for Y-nodes. Therefore, this study contributes with new perspectives on the influence of deformation band connections on the permeability of fault zones and has implications for the modeling and flow simulation of siliciclastic reservoirs with deformation bands in the damage zones.
•We analyzed the 3D topology and permeability in fault zone on Rio do Peixe Basin.•We compared the topological parameters in the fault core and in the damage zone.•The Y-node is dominant in the fault core and tends to decrease in the damage zone.•The highest and smallest permeability values are associated with the I- and X-nodes.•We suggest that connections affect the fluid flow behaviour in a fault zone.