Recent magmatism drives hydrocarbon generation in north-east Java, Indonesia

Area of Science:

• Geochemistry
• Sedimentary Geology
• Volcanology

Background:

• Traditional petroleum basin models link oil generation to sediment burial, pressure, temperature, and time.
• These processes typically occur over geological timescales but can be accelerated by magmatic fluid interactions.
• The Lusi eruption in Indonesia exemplifies deep volcanic-sedimentary domain interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate ongoing hydrocarbon generation driven by magmatic intrusion at the Lusi mud eruption.
• To develop a conceptual model for hydrocarbon migration in a volcanically active basin.
• To identify sensitive geothermometers for magmatically influenced basins.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of oil and clast samples from the Lusi eruption site.
• Integration of multidisciplinary techniques for basin analysis.
• Application of palynology, organic petrology, and chlorite microthermometry.

Main Results:

• Evidence of large hydrocarbon generation induced by recent magmatic intrusion.
• Identification of palynology, organic petrology, and chlorite microthermometry as sensitive geothermometers.
• Development of a conceptual model for complex hydrocarbon migration history.

Conclusions:

• Magmatic intrusions can significantly accelerate hydrocarbon generation in petroleum basins.
• The Lusi eruption provides a unique natural laboratory for studying modern hydrocarbon generation.
• Understanding these processes is crucial for both petroleum exploration and mud volcano dynamics.