PROSPECT OF GAS HYDRATE RESOURCES IN THE AREA TO SOUTHWEST SHEN-HU OF NORTHERN SOUTH CHINA SEA

As a new type of energy resources, gas hydrates have gained great attention from the society because of its cleanness and huge potential. In addition to low temperature and high pressure, the formation of gas hydrate requires more boundary conditions, such as the origin of gas and its sufficient supply, gas migration conduit and favorable conditions of sedimentation. In this regard, it becomes necessary to study the relationship between the gas hydrate occurrence and the geological conditions of tectonics, sedimentation and gas supply for better resource assessment of gas hydrates in a region. Using high-resolution multichannel seismic reflection profiles as a mean, we made a geological assessment of gas hydrates in the continental slope areas of Southwest Shen-hu in this paper. Prospective areas are identified and resource potential is estimated. The results will be helpful for future exploration of gas hydrate in the region.