Coupling processes between self-oscillation of formation pressure and periodic migration-accumulation of natural gases in Yinggehai Basin, South China Sea

The modeling of formation pressure in Yinggehai shows that DF1-1 diapir has oscilla-torily released thermal fluids twice since 5.0 Ma, which may be controlled by the multi-structural subsidences and their accompanying thermal events. Using thermal indicators of formation temperature by DST, I/S mixed clay minerals, homogeneous temperature of inorganic fluid inclusion and δ¹³C of methane to trace the thermal fluid migrating order and path, we found that there are two orders of natural gas migration-accumulation in the upper site over the top of the overpressured compartment. Based on the oscillatory development of formation pressure, we postulate there would exist earlier (before 5.0 Ma) gas accumulation in their deeper site.