Quantitative Physical Simulation Research on Salt Structure: a Case Study of the Pre-Caspian Basin

The study of salt structures has been a hot spot. Currently, the main controlling factors, dynamic mechanism of deformation, and the relationship between the deformation of salt layer and the structure styles of the underlying strata are still difficulties. To this end, based on the techniques of structural physical simulation and industrial CT scanning, a set of quantitative and visual research methods to study the salt structure deformation are established. The main procedure are as follows. Firstly, to confirm the characteristics of salt structure deformation and its structural origin on basis of structural interpretation and geological analysis. Then, to clarify the main controlling factors and dynamic mechanisms of salt structure deformation by physical simulation. Finally, to achieve digital and quantitative research by the method of industrial CT scanning and 3D reconstruction modeling.

Pre-Caspian basin is taken as an example. The physical simulation results show that the salt structures were mainly formed due to salt body gravity and differential compaction of the overlying strata. Also，salt structure in this area is closely related to subsalt structure. The results is highly consistent with the original seismic profile, which effectively guiding the interpretation of subsalt structure and trap evaluation.