IDENTIFYING SALT SUTURE ZONES AND LITHOLOGICAL CHANGES OF THE LOUANN SALT IN THE GULF OF MEXICO BASIN, LA. U.S.A.

<p>The Louann Salt, a key evaporite unit in the Gulf of Mexico Basin, influences salt tectonics, hydrocarbon migration, and basin evolution. This study examines Louann Salt deposition and deformation within the Puma Diapir, focusing on mineralogical, geochemical, and structural features of suture zones in three offshore wells (Puma 2(w), Puma 3, and Panther). Using drill cuttings, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), well-log data, and 3D seismic interpretation, the study analyzed salt composition and suture formation. Results show the salt primarily consists of halite, with minor anhydrite, gypsum, and sylvite, indicating continuous precipitation. Geochemical analysis identifies localized anhydrite zones, suggesting fluctuating brine chemistry, while quartz and clay minerals point to siliciclastic influx. The study reveals active salt deformation, identifying autosutures and allosutures, with implications for salt flow dynamics and petroleum exploration. Further research will refine the understanding of these interactions.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science - Geology

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Geology

Year dc:date.available

2025

Author dc:creator

• singer, jamie dale

Contributors dc:contributor

• Julie Bloxsom
• Wesley Brown
• L. Nielson

• Salt Tectonics
• Diapir
• Geochemistry
• Luann Salt
• Geology

Repository record dc:identifier

https://scholarworks.sfasu.edu/etds/609

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:scholarworks.sfasu.edu:etds-1646