This practical handbook on basin analysis is an extremely useful introduction to the many techniques, methods and language of basin analysis; to the concepts of time stratigraphy, depositional systems and sequence stratigraphy; and to the importance of scale when data include well cuttings and global plate motions. Approaching the subject from a sedimentological viewpoint, Miall avoids the pitfall of endless and detailed taxonomy. However, the book does not make full use of the seismic reflection method as a regional basin analysis tool, but does discuss its importance.
The “Principles of Sedimentary Basin Analysis” book is an invaluable reference for undergraduate students of sedimentary basins, whether academically or industrially focused. It is also useful for the professional researcher or explorer looking for an introduction to some forgotten or unknown stratigraphic technique, method or jargon. The comprehensive referencing, updated to 1988, makes the book a useful starting point for a review of most basin related subjects. At f46 this hardback issue is beyond the average undergraduate pocket but is an essential library reference book.
The “Principles of Sedimentary Basin Analysis” book is structured into two sections: Chapters 1-6 concentrate on the philosophy, methods, and limitations of stratigraphic and sedimentological analysis. Meanwhile, Chapters 7-9 address the global controls on basin evolution in terms of geodynamics, stratigraphic cyclicity, and plate tectonics.
Chapter 1 outlines the scope of the book and emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to basin analysis, the variety of data collection needed and the benefits of a ‘team’ approach. The basic philosophy of basin analysis is clearly established, with emphasis on chronostratigraphy. and the concepts of depositional systems and sequence stratigraphy. With this regard the importance of both vertical and lateral facies variations is developed. Following this theme, the nature of the seismic reflection method, and its impact on regional correlation and basin architecture, are also discussed.
Chapters 2-4 deal with the techniques of stratigraphic analysiswhat to observe and how to record it; stratigraphic correlations, their limitations and display: and sedimentary facies analysis. The facies chapter in particular brings out the importance of appreciating scale when data includes well cuttings, outcrops and seismic reflection profiles. This chapter also begins to make the link between traditional facies analysis and the concept of a depositional systems tract. It concludes with a useful and brief review of facies models.
Chapter 5 discusses techniques of displaying stratigraphic data. Chapter 6 introduces the depositional systems approach to basin analysis and its importance to stratigraphic architecture and the seismic scale of observation. The common depositional systems are outlined, followed by an introduction to the concept and models of sequence stratigraphy. Although brief, this section is a good and readable introduction to one of the most important and misunderstood fields of modern observational geology.
Part 2 of the book deals with global controls on basin development and has seen the most revision for this second edition. Chapter 7 deals qualitatively with basin forming mechanisms and the techniques used to identify them. The stratigraphic implications of these mechanisms are highlighted, although the chapter is generally too superficial to be useful.
Chapter 8 discusses the variable nature of stratigraphic cyclicity and the current controversy surrounding this subject. The mention of the use of this in global petroleum exploration understates what could be an extremely powerful tool, not only globally but also at the reservoir scale.
Chapter 9 discusses the classification of basins by plate tectonic setting, and the kinematic controls exercised on basin evolution by plate motion. This somewhat ad hoc chapter also offers the only direct input on the structural geology of basins. Miall ends with an overview of the book, its use, and a list of research themes having a major impact on problems relating to basin analysis.
The book lacks a discussion of the nature of fluid flow in sedimentary basins. Fluid flow is of considerable geological and economic importance, be the fluid water, petroleum or a hydrothermal system. It is also a major topic of research, both academic and industrial.
In conclusion, this is a well-researched, well-referenced and carefully produced book covering the multidisciplinary, and rapidly changing subject of basin analysis. The message from Miall is the right one and his book is a fine attempt to pass on that message
Contents
- The Stratigraphy and Sedimentology of Sedimentary Basins: Introduction to Part 1
1. Introduction
2. The Stratigraphic-Sedimentologic Database
3. Stratigraphic Correlation
4. Facies Analysis
5. Basin-Mapping Methods
6. Sequence Stratigraphy - Global Controls of Sedimentary Basin Development
1. Tectonism and Sedimentation: Principles and Models
2. Regional and Global Stratigraphic Cycles
3. Sedimention and Plate Tectonics
4. Conclusions
