Effects of basement structures and Carboniferous basin configuration on evaporite distribution and the development of salt structures in Nordkapp Basin, Barents Sea—Part I

Potential field data, reprocessed regional 2D seismic reflection profiles and 3D tied to wells were used study the late Devonian-Permian development of Nordkapp Basin in Barents Sea. The composite basin can be subdivided into northeastern, central southwestern segments that developed above a basement contains elements Timanian Caledonian regimes. transition between structures is positioned below segment. rheological properties, locations, orientations interaction inherited together with two subsequent extensional phases, defined presalt rift architecture gave rise seven subbasins within Basin. During Devonian-early Carboniferous NE-SW oriented extension, consisted half-grabens (northern southern) separated by an interbasin ridge. Carboniferous, shift extension direction NW-SE orientation reshaped half-grabens. In particular, transfer zone divided northern half-graben separating its hinged-margin portion (incipient northeastern segment) from deeper part segment). At same time, elevated ridge incipient segments. Internally subbasins, evolving structural including cross-cutting master faults highs have influenced deposition character Pennsylvanian-lower Permian layered evaporite sequence distribution salt structures. We suggest synrift early postrift processes, relative depth each subbasin, arrangement depositional palaeo-environment all controlled thickness facies sequence. latter combination comprised laterally varying substratum during earliest Triassic sediment routings progradational system arriving outcomes are pertinent applicable other salt-influenced basins worldwide.