An integrated analysis of tar sand occurrences in Paraná Basin, Brazil

Tar sandstones occur in the Eastern Border of the Parana Basin, Brazil. An integrated spatial analysis of these occurrences was performed according to geological features present in the area. Airborne magnetometrics, gravimetric data, field data and remote sensing were applied. Based on these data the structural framework related to the occurrences was interpreted. Besides, based on analysis of regional and field data, a genetic model for the occurrences of tar sandstones in the area was proposed. It was concluded that the best model relates oil generation to the intrusion of Serra Geral sills in the Permian Irati black shales; migration through faults and dike walls and accumulation in Triassic Piramboia Sandstones trapped by argillaceous layers and basic dikes. The most preeminent structure on the area, the Jacu Structure, is an example of the relationship between geologic structure and geomorphologic development, which helps the understanding the location of the occurrences.