Multi-Phase Tectonic Movements and Their Controls on Coalbed Methane: A Case Study of No. 9 Coal Seam from Eastern Yunnan, SW China

Abstract

Multi-phase tectonic movements and complex geological structures limit the exploration and hotspot prediction of coalbed methane (CBM) in structurally complex areas. This scientific problem is still not fully understood, particularly in the Bumu region, Southwest China. The present paper analyses the occurrence characteristics and distribution of CBM based on the comprehensive analysis of CBM data. In combination with the analysis of the regional tectonics setting, geological structure features and tectonic evolution. The control action of multi-phase tectonic movements on CBM occurrence are further discussed. Results show that the Indosinian local deformation, Yanshanian intense deformation, and Himalayan secondary derived deformation formed the current tectonic framework of Enhong synclinorium. The intense tectonic compression and dextral shear action in the Yanshanian and Himalayan movements caused the complex geological structures in Bumu region, composed of the Enhong syncline, associated reverse faults and late derived normal fault. The CBM distribution is complex, which has the central and western NNE-trending high gas content zones along the syncline hinge zone and the reverse faults. The geological structure controls on CBM enrichment are definite and important. Based on geological structure features and responses of gas content, methane concentration, and gas content gradient, the gas controlling patterns of geological structure are determined and can be classified into five types: the reverse fault sealing, syncline sealing, monoclinal enrichment, normal fault dispersion, and buried floor fault dispersion types. The structural compression above the neutral surface plays an important role in the syncline sealing process, which is indicated by an increase in gas content gradient. The EW-trending tectonic intense compression and dextral shear action in the Himalayan movement avoided the negative inversion of NNE-trending Yanshanian compressive structure and its destruction of CBM reservoir. However, the chronic uplift and derived normal fault during Himalayan period caused the constant dissipation of CBM.