Tectonic-Structural Regionalization with Purposes of Hydrocarbon Exploration and Mapping of New Potential Oil–Gas Goals

Abstract

A summary of the main results achieved in the tectonic-structural regionalization with hydrocarbon exploration purposes, focusing mapping of new possible oil–gas targets in the regions of Onshore Blocks 9, 23, and 17–18 is given. In some of the new places of interest (Majaguillar, Southeast Motembo, Guamutas, El Pinto, and Maniabón), there were performed reconnaissance work by a profile of Redox Complex (complex of unconventional geophysical–geochemical exploration techniques) with positive results. In Block 9, from the presence of a complex of indicator anomalies, three locations of greater oil–gas interest were established: Majaguillar (Placetas Tectonic-Stratigraphic Unit), Southeast Motembo (Ophiolites), and Guamutas (northern boundary of Mercedes Basin). Block 23, in the locality of El Pinto (near the Zaza Dam), is distinguished as an anomalous complex (AC) given by a local gravimetric maximum, coincident with a geomorphic maximum with the same position and dimensions. Block 17–18 is distinguished, in the locality of Maniabón (south of Puerto Padre and Nuevitas bays), as an AC given by a local gravimetric–geomorphic maximum within a regional gravimetric minimum, a minimum of K/Th ratio, and U(Ra) local anomalies at the end of the AC. Definitively, for its geological significance (associated to foreland basin), it was established as main interest of all locations, the Maniabón area.