Content, Composition, and Thermal History of Organic Matter in Mesozoic Sediments, Falkland Plateau

Abstract

Ten samples from DSDP Leg 36, Site 330 and Hole 327A, on the Falkland Plateau have been analyzed for organic matter content and maturity (Figure 1). Nine samples are from a thick, relatively uniform black shale of Mesozoic age which is described as sapropelic claystone by the DSDP Scientific Staff (1974). The other sample is from an older Mesozoic rock unit occurring at Site 330 which consists of interbedded clayey siltstone, sandstone, and limestone containing terrigenous plant debris (DSDP Scientific Staff, 1974). Geochemical analyses were performed to determine whether the black shales could be a source for commercial hydrocarbon deposits. In addition, the thermal history of the organic matter as determined by palynomorph translucency and elemental composition was examined for its implications about the tectonic history of the region.