Momentum and energy balance equations for compacting sediments

Coupled energy and momentum balance equations are derived for a one-dimensional sequence of compacting sediments. These transient, nonlinear partial differential equations represent the one-dimensional equations of state for an accumulating sedimentary basin. A numerical solution is presented which provides a first-order approximation for porosity, temperature, and fluid pressures in the northern Gulf of Mexico. It seems that compaction disequilibrium is the primary mechanism for development of excess fluid pressures. Furthermore, the coupling of the equations demonstrates that temperature and pressure cannot be treated independently as may have been done in diagenetic studies. Some areas for further investigations are indicated.