Abstract:

Stylolite, as a common pressure solution structure, develops extensively in carbonate, which is of great significance in stress analysis, finite strain determination and research on oil-gas resources. Based on field observation and indoor analysis about the stylolites in Tieshan, Daye, Hubei Province, this paper raises some fresh understandings about the stylolite as follows: (1) Stylolites are classified into wave-shaped, sawtooth-shaped, city-wall-shaped and thin-column shaped stylolites. (2)Two kinds of composite stylolites are identified in the area and named after parasitic composite stylolites and transitional composite stylolites. (3)Stylolite, in fact, is an irregular pressure solution surface. According to the data collected from field outcrops, we gain the 3D-morphology of a stylolite using computer technology. (4)Stylolite formation process is related to rock composition, stresses, fluid chemicals etc., which provides theoretical basis to practical application. (5) It is considered that the stylolite will be more useful in the assessment of oil-gas resources.

Key words: stylolite, classification, formation mechanism, Tieshan, Hubei Province