Sedimentary dynamics and structural geology of pre-rift deposits of the interior basin of Gabon

Recent studies combining field data (facies and paleocurrent analyses, structural surveys), sub-surface data (core analyses, well logs, seismic sections) and palynological data provide insight into the sedimentary dynamics of pre-rift deposits of the interior basin of Gabon and their structural and paleoclimatic setting. These sedimentary deposits belong to the Noya, Agoula. and M'vone series of Late Precambrian to Jurassic age. Although these deposits are potential sources of petroleum, they are partly known because of poor outcrop in a wet equatorial climate, low density and uneven distribution of exploration wells and poor seismic survey coverage. The pre-rift deposits reflect fluvial-lacustrine and glacial continental sedimentation, punctuated by many sedimentary gaps and episodes of erosion, and were affected by Late Precambrian extensional faulting indicated by NNE-SSW oriented tilted blocks. This Precambrian extensional faulting was reactivated during subsequent tectonic episodes, and most notably during the Early Cretaceous rifting phase. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.