Structural characteristics of the basement and the prospective of favorable oil and gas blocks in the Tacheng basin

The Tacheng basin has been identified as a Carboniferous basement with a central uplift, surrounded by orogenic belts.This identification was based on the comprehensive analysis of field outcrops, regional magnetic and gravimetric data, skeleton seismic profiles, magnetotelluric profiles and drilling data.Here, we present gravimetric and magnetic data analyses of the basement structures of the Tacheng basin and its base formation.We also provide a magnetotelluric profile analysis of the structural features and tectonic framework of basin-mountain patterns.We use local geology, drilling data, and other comprehensive information to document the tectonic framework of the basement of the basin.Small-scale nappe structures are found in the northern basin, whereas stronger and more pronounced thrusting structures are found to the south and east of the basin.The basin is divided into four first-order tectonic units:a central uplift, a northern depression, a southeastern depression and a western depression.In addition, the Emin sag is suggested as a possible reservoir for oil and gas.