Tectono-sequence stratigraphic analysis on Paleogene Shahejie Formation in the Banqiao sub-basin, Eastern China

Tectonics is extremely important to the depositional record preserved in continental sedimentary basins, affecting both the formation of sequence boundaries and the filling characters of these sequences. This comprehensive analysis of Paleogene depositional patterns and the sequence compositional types in the Banqiao sub-basin of the Bohai Basin, Eastern China, shows that episodic rifting and differential activity on major faults have resulted in the formation of various types of transfer zones and structural slope-break zones, both of which played significant roles in the formation and distribution of sequence types and depositional systems. Transfer zones controlled the positions of sediment source areas, entry points for sediment into the basin and, as a result, the development of depositional systems. Structural slope-break zones are paleotopographic features where there is a sharp basinward increase in depositional slope that is controlled by fault geometry. The location of structural slope-break zones influenced the distribution of depositional systems and sand bodies. Areas where the structural slope-break zone overlapped with transfer zones were sites for major drainage systems and the preferred positions of delta fans and turbidite fans. The areas controlled by the transfer zone and the structural slope-break zone with the distribution of sand bodies are the favorable place for the prospecting of subtle stratigraphic traps in the Banqiao sub-basin.

► Various types of transfer zones and structural slope-break zones are formed.
► Transfer zones control the source areas and the sedimentary system development.
► Structural slope-break zone influences the distribution of sedimentary system and sand bodies.
► Sand bodies' belts controlled by them are the favorable place for the subtle stratigraphic traps.