Characteristics of Organic Matter and Biomarkers in Core Sediments From the Offshore Area of Leizhou Peninsula, South China Sea

Total organic carbon (TOC), total nitrogen (TN) and multi-biomarker indexes were analyzed for two sediment cores from the eastern coastal area of Beibu Gulf (core 45, AMS 14 C dated) Qiongzhou Strait 29), South China Sea. The results showed that TOC TN content samples studied 0.32–0.62% 0.02–0.07%, respectively. hydrocarbons in offshore sediments Leizhou Peninsula consisted biogenic petrogenic hydrocarbons. Core 29 contain more terrigenous matter than core 45 due to difference hydrodynamic conditions. composition distribution various lipid biomarkers indicate presence whole profile cores. There are multiple natural sources could potentially contribute petroleum background through oil seeps erosion carbon-rich rock outcrops or bitumen deposits. Deep sourced hydrocarbon inputs submarine seepage cannot be excluded. Further study is needed resolve specific may significant exploration area.