Arcuate and growth faults in basin models, with an application to a south Louisiana roll-over structure

Using a two-dimensional fluid-flow/compaction code an investigation is given of the influence of dynamically evolving curved faults in impacting the overpressure development of a sedimentary basin. Four synthetic cases are examined: an homogeneous sandy-shale section, and a mixed layered section of sand and shale, with fault conditions investigated being open to fluid flow, and closed to fluid-flow, respectively. Fault throws can be instantaneous either in time (such as a gravity slump) or can be progressive in time (such as a growth fault). A case history from south Louisiana also is examined to illustrate typical response patterns.