Otway Basin Marine Geology and Heatflow Survey

A 1987 research cruise collected geological, geochemical, and heatflow data from 130 sampling stations across the Otway Basin and west Tasmanian margin. Scientists aboard the R.V. Rig Seismic gathered rock samples and sediment cores over a 29-day period to assess petroleum potential. The dataset was contributed by the Australian Ocean Data Network.

Use Cases

• Map hydrocarbon source rock maturity using heatflow calculations from 20 stations to estimate thermal maturation depth.
• Analyze sediment composition and age from recovered Palaeozoic volcanics, Cretaceous sandstones, and Tertiary carbonates to develop regional geological frameworks.
• Model post-Eocene subsidence rates using palaeontological results from slope samples.
• Identify areas of high thermogenic hydrocarbon potential using headspace gas analysis readings from core samples.
• Correlate rock type and age with water depth (continental slope) using samples taken along seismic profiles.

Strengths

• 130 sampling stations provide spatial coverage across two basins.
• Multi-faceted data collection includes rock samples, sediment cores, and heatflow measurements.
• Samples were taken along seismic profiles, enabling integration with regional geological frameworks.

Limitations

• Data is from a single cruise in 1987, representing a historical snapshot with no recent updates.
• Sample size for specific analyses is limited (e.g., heatflow calculations from only 20 stations).
• Primary data formats are PDF and HTML reports, not structured tabular data, limiting direct computational analysis.

Provenance

Source

Australian Ocean Data Network

Collection Method

Sampling via dredges, corers, grabs, and a heatflow probe from the R.V. Rig Seismic research vessel.

Time Range

1987 (29-day cruise)

Freshness

null

Geography

Otway Basin and Sorell Basin of the west Tasmanian margin.