Sedimentary characteristics and model of gravity flows in the eocene Liushagang Formation in Weixi'nan depression, South China Sea

Gravity flows have been well investigated in deep-marine settings but less so in deep-lacustrine environments. To further understand the sedimentary characteristics and processes of gravity flows in a lacustrine rift basin, sublacustrine fans in the Weixi'nan Depression in the South China Sea were identified and studied by integrating core, well logging and 3D seismic data. Several aspects of gravity flow deposits were discussed in this study: (1) classification: seven lithofacies types were further grouped into four lithofacies assemblages/associations associated with emplacement by slumps, gravel-rich debris flows, high-density turbidity currents (which may transform into muddy debris flows) and low-density turbidity currents. (2) Proximal vs. distal position: the quantitative analysis of the lithofacies associations indicated that the gravity flow deposits are dominated by gravel-rich debris flow deposits and high-density turbidites in the proximal parts of the sublacustrine fans, whereas low-density turbidites dominate in the basin center. (3) Major triggers (humid climate and/or slope failures): the presence of active structures and a humid climate favored the formation of gravity flows, which originated from delta collapses and/or floods. (4) Lateral and vertical lithofacies distributions: the coarse-grained deposits represent a spectrum of different categories of gravity flows. In proximity to the slope break zone, slumps transformed into gravel-rich debris flows through liquefaction and deformation. As the gravity flows advanced toward the basin, the gravel-rich debris flows gradually became diluted with the surrounding water and transformed into high-density turbidity currents. When the flows reached the deep basin plain, the high-density turbidity currents transformed into low-density turbidity currents because the coarse grains could no longer remain in suspension. (5) An alternative mechanism: when the flows eroded the muddy substrate/basement, an alternative mechanism involving reverse-flow transformation occurred. In some cases, high-density turbidity currents transformed into muddy debris flows because the eroded light material became segregated toward the rear of the turbidity current and inhibited turbulence. This sedimentary model of gravity flows can be used for oil exploration in the study area and similar lacustrine rift basins.