New scaling of fractures in a giant carbonate platform from outcrops and subsurface

摘要: Abstract We scale properties of fractures in the Late Kimmeridgian carbonate platform Arabian Shelf from outcrop and subsurface strata. The is flat-lying undeformed except low-relief anticlines domes, at which strata hosts world's most prolific petroleum reserves. exhibit stylolites veins, besides dominant fractures. are opening-mode, steep, forming major sets NW–SE NE–SW orientations. Faults uncommon. Fracture abundance varies significantly across platform, but it constrained spatially by inherent variation mechanical stratigraphy temporally anticlinal growth isotope geochemistry. In early burial stages, were slightly deformed bed-parallel mutually crosscutting veins. fracturing increased Cretaceous. spacing an average 2 m horizontal-bedded outcrops Central Arabia 0.30 m equivalent a dome Eastern Arabia. end member deformation spectrum interior, with up to c. 5° structural dip 2% dilational strain expressed doming few faults. This finding indicates that platforms can reach fracture oversaturation under such subtle tectonic extension.