Microfacies related diagenetic alterations control on the Neoproterozoic Khufai carbonate succession from Huqf region, Oman: evidence from field studies, petrography and geochemistry

Reservoir rocks in the Sultanate of Oman are mainly carbonates that display various extents of diagenetic alterations. This proposal aims to elucidate the conditions, controlling parameters, and spatial and temporal distribution diagenetic alterations in Neoproterozoic carbonate successions that crop out in Jabal Akhdar areas, the Sultana of Oman. However, the outcropped carbonate rocks can serve as analogs for the reservoir rocks in the subsurface. The goals of study can be better achieved and predictive conceptual models can be developed when the diagenetic alterations are linked to depositional facies and to the sequence stratigraphic framework (systems tracts and key sequence stratigraphic surfaces) of the carbonate successions. Special emphasis will be put on the dolomitization of limestone and its role in fracturing (i.e. increase in secondary porosity). The study will, thus, be conducted employing an integrated approach, which involves the study of field geometries, fracture system characterization, petrography, micro-thermometry (fluid inclusions), and geochemical (major and minor elements as well as stable and radiogenic isotopes) analyses of the diagenetic minerals and of host carbonate rocks.