This research reveals the coupling mechanism between structural deformation and hydrocarbon accumulation. The Dibei area in the Kuqa Depression represents a key hydrocarbon exploration domain within the northern Tarim foreland basin. Although extensive studies on stratigraphy, sedimentology, and accumulation mechanisms have been conducted, the control of segmented deformation on traps remains poorly understood. Furthermore, the synergistic regulation mechanism involving paleo-uplifts, salt thickness, synsedimentation, and erosion is still ambiguous. Based on high-quality 2D and 3D seismic data, this study integrates tectonic evolution balanced restoration with physical modeling. We conducted two sets of 3D sandbox experiments: “differential paleo-uplift and salt thickness” and “synsedimentation-erosion.” This approach systematically investigates the control of tectonic evolution on trap formation. Results show a strong correspondence between the “subsalt–salt–supra-salt” structural deformation and trap types. The supra-salt layer is dominated by detachment fold traps, whereas the subsalt layer features thrust-fold anticline traps. The basement paleo-uplift governs structural segmentation and trap distribution. Salt thickness modulates strain partitioning and trap stability. Synsedimentation optimizes trap conditions via tectono-sedimentary coupling. Erosional unconformities serve dual functions as both migration pathways and seal beds. These four factors work synergistically throughout the entire petroleum system, from “trap formation–migration–accumulation–preservation.” It enriches the genetic theory of salt-related structures in foreland basins. The findings provide a reference for predicting favorable exploration zones, evaluating trap characteristics, and assessing resource potential in the Kuqa Depression.
Wang et al. (Fri,) studied this question.
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