Compaction Curve with Consideration of Time and Temperature Effects for Mudstones

Abstract

A compilation of compaction curves shows that the curves vary widely (porosity-burial depth), especially at the depth shallower 2000 m. There is no unique physical or mathematic expression of mudstone compaction. In this study, we have considered the burial depths (shallower 2000m), where the process of mechanical compaction dominate, and point out on time and temperature effects influencing variations of mudstone compaction curves. We revised and reconstructed the existing, widely referred, mudstone compaction curves using a correction of clay mineral dehydration and thermal correction based on time and temperature effects, respectively. The results show that the mudstone compaction curves seem to improve matching with one another. These corrections are possible toward establishment of a standard compaction curve of mudstones.