Multi-disciplinary approach to sedimentary facies analysis of Messinian Salinity Crisis tectono-sequences (South-Mansoura Area, Nile Delta): Incised-valley fill geological model reconstruction and petroleum geology–reservoir element delineation

Abstract The quality of a hydrocarbon reservoir is strongly controlled by the depositional and diagenetic facies nature given rock. Therefore, building precise geological/depositional model rock critical to reducing risks while exploring for petroleum. Ultimate characterization constructing an adequate geological still challenging due in general insufficiency data; particularly integrating them through combined approaches. In this paper, we integrated seismic geomorphology, sequence stratigraphy, sedimentology, efficiently characterize Upper Miocene, incised-valley fill, Abu Madi Formation at South Mansoura Area (Onshore Nile Delta, Egypt). Formation, study area, SW-NE trending fairway consisting alternative sequences shales channel-fill sandstones, Messinian age, that were built as result River sediment supply upon Salinity Crisis. Hence, it comprises range continental coastal facies. We utilized dataset including data, complete set well logs, core samples. performed attribute analysis, spectral decomposition, over stratal slices outline geometry fill. Moreover, log analysis was done distinguish different lithofacies associations, define their paleo-depositional environments; preceding further look log-based stratigraphic setting well. Furthermore, mineralogical composition post-depositional diagenesis identified performing petrographical some thin sections adopted from A linkage between such approaches, study, impact on determination aimed shed light successful characterization, capable giving robust insight into facies, associated petroleum potential. results show MSC constitutes third-order fluvial estuarine units, infilling Eonile-canyon, with five sedimentary associations; overbank mud, channel complex, tidal channels, bars; Y-shape geometry. association (zone 1 3) enriches coarse-grained deposited subaerial setting, significantly higher quality, acting best area. Although dissolution detrital components, mainly feldspars, enhanced secondary porosity, improving sediments, represent main fluid flow conduits, where marine influence limited.