Spatio-temporal evolution of stratigraphic-diffusive methane hydrate reservoirs since the Pliocene along Shenhu continental slope, northern South China sea

When biogenic methane produced in marine shallow sediments flows laterally into hydrate stable zones, there is likely to be formation of disperse stratigraphic-diffusive hydrate reservoirs that generally appear thin-bedded and disseminated. The stratigraphic-diffusive layers are also potential industrial exploitation targets because they have moderate abundance, wide distribution, and convenient mining maneuverability. After success of the second trial production in Shenhu area of South China Sea, it is urgent for us to find out the evolution dynamics of the stratigraphic-diffusive hydrate system which is widespread along oceanic continental slopes. Here, the Pearl River Mouth Basin in the northern slope area of South China Sea as a typical passive margin was selected to probe the principles of the accumulation mechanism and distribution pattern of stratigraphic-diffusive methane hydrates, determine the optimal degree of aggregation and spatial extension, and thus evaluate the potential recovery value. Based on the composite stratigraphic sequence, we theoretically described the occurrence characteristics of this type of stratigraphic-diffusive hydrate reservoirs. A two-dimensional model that coupled sedimentation process, fluid flow and reaction kinetics was designed to gauge the influence of engineering geological conditions and other controlling factors since the Pliocene (5.3 Ma) in this system. Several key parameters (including porosity, temperature, salt, and hydrate content) at three different moments, 5 Ma ago, 1.5 Ma ago and at present, were exhibited. The impacts of geothermal gradient and kinetic reaction coefficient on the evolution process were also discussed. Finally, the methane generated from local particulate organic carbons and different start time was used to verify the rationality of this theoretical approach. Our two-dimensional model clearly depicted the occurrence and accumulation characteristics of local stratigraphic-diffusive hydrates, disclosed the exploration value and exhibited the exploitation possibility.