Mitra, Shankar¹, Gerardo Correa Figueroa², Jesus Hernandez Garcia², Antonio Murillo Alvarado² 
(1) University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK 
(2) Petroleos Mexicanos, Cd. del Carmen, Mexico

ABSTRACT: Three-dimensional Structural Model of the Cantarell and Sihil Structures, Campeche Bay, Mexico

The Cantarell and Sihil fields are located within a complex system of compressive structures in the Campeche Bay province in Mexico. A three-dimensional model for the Cantarell and Sihil structures has been developed by integrating 3-D seismic interpretation, data from over 300 wells, and a series of structural cross sections. Structural reconstruction has been used to understand the kinematic evolution of the structure. The geometry of the Cantarell-Sihil structure varies considerably along trend from a simple fault-related structure in the south, to a duplex consisting of the Cantarell and Sihil structures in the central part, to a more complex system displaced by Tertiary normal faults in the north. The structures formed during three main episodes of deformation: (1) Jurassic extension, (2) Miocene compression, and (3) late Tertiary reactivated extension. 
The Cantarell field produces out of three separate fault-bounded allochthonous blocks: the Akal, Nohoch, and and Kutz blocks. The main field is located in the Akal structure. Secondary fields in the allochthonous block include Kutz, formed along the crest of a downthrown extensional block, and Nohoch, formed above a back thrust. The Chac field is located at the updip edge of a tilted fault block in the autochthonous sheet. The recently discovered Sihil field is located within a subthurst compressive structure, and consists of two separate lobes above the sub-Sihil fault. The detailed three-dimensional structural model is being used for future production of remaining reserves in the Cantarell field as well for delineation of the Sihil field.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90026©2004 AAPG Annual Meeting, Dallas, Texas, April 18-21, 2004.