Petrographic and X-ray Microtomographic Analysis of the Upper Montney Formation, Northeastern British Columbia, Canada
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Abstract
Utilizing electron microprobe (EMP), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and petrographic analysis, 14 thin sections from the Upper Montney Formation were analyzed. Five microfacies were identified. Rock types observed include: dolomitic lithic arkos, dolomitic litharenite, dolomitic feldspathic litharenite and dolomitic feldspathic litharenite. These microfacies are interpreted to be dominantly event beds, possibly sourced from turbidity currents. Depositional environments range from the lower shoreface to offshore. Pyrite analysis suggests deposition in dominantly disoxyic conditions, with 3 anoxia spikes in association with a decrease in ocean acidity. Additionally, microfocus-computed tomographic analysis was conducted on a representative sample from the Upper Montney. By comparing these analyses with EMP images, 3-D mineral characterization was made possible. This technique reveals low overall porosity and the presence of dedolomite.