STRATIGRAPHIC MODELING OF EPICONTINENTAL BASINS - 2 APPLICATIONS

This paper highlights some recent results of computer simulations of sedimentary basin fills. Two types of applications of the simulation program are illustrated from epicontinental basins: (1) Conceptual modelling. Computer simulations are ideal for establishing and quantitatively testing geological models. Here we investigate hierarchical levels of stratigraphic cyclicity, and record some criteria to distinguish cycles caused by eustatic variations and by fluctuations in clastic input or in intraplate stress. These possibilities may be differentiated by details in stratal patterns (time lines). (2) Evaluation of "real" basin stratigraphy. This application is demonstrated with a calibration exercise from the Paris Basin. Data from only one well proved sufficient to simulate adequately the gross features of the basin-fill. With more well data being incorporated, more acurate simulations are obtained. Stratigraphic modelling is useful as a learning tool and as a predictive tool, and is best used in conjunction with conventional basin analysis techniques. Constraining the input parameters (e.g. by more empirical data) and the model sensitivity will remain a major task for future work.