Publications

Kendeng fold thrust belt has been problematic for hydrocarbon exploration since the early 1970s. There are numerous surface-expressed anticlines associated with oil seeps within the area, but negligible drilling due to reasons related to geological risk factors (i.e. overpressure, thick volcanic sediments, poor seismic data quality and structural complexity etc.). This paper discusses three Western and Eastern Kendeng experimental analogue scenarios that demonstrate different degrees of Pliocene syncontractional sedimentation influenced by the time of fold-thrust development, amount of shortening and resulting geometry. Eastern Kendeng with higher syn-contractional sediments has less shortening, thrust reactivation and greater back thrust formation than the Western area. As a result, the area may have more discrete structures and lower risk for hydrocarbon trap due to positive effect of sediment building. Understanding the Kendeng fold and thrust belt movement by use of experimental compressional apparatus is important to define timing of trap formation relative to generation and expulsion of hydrocarbons. The process significantly improves hydrocarbon play concepts as well as opening new perspective towards future exploration within Kendeng fold thrust belt.