“Compression dynamometamorphic solid bitmen” and its significance in oil and gas exploration

There is natural occurrence of pressure-induced solid bitumen, here referred to as “compression dynamometamorphic solid bitumen”. It differs in physical properties and chemical structure from thermal metamorphic solid bitumen. Under a high pressure and moderate temperature, the solid bitumen forms crystals and its reflectance rises rapidly with increasing crystallization. Accordingly, its reflectance can reach a very high value without having been exposed to a high level of thermal stress. Laboratory simulation confirms the formation of pressure-induced solid bitumen at moderate temperatures. The revelation of this new bitumen type is very helpful in the accurate maturity determination of carbonate organic matter. Foundation item: Supported by Chinese Key Project of Science and Technology (96-111-03-04) Biography: GAO Zhi-nong (1961-), male, Ph.D, Associate professor, Research direction: organic geochemistry.