THE PETROLEUM POTENTIAL OF ARMENIA BASED ON THE CONCEPT OF “DEHYDRATION OF ROCKS WITHIN THE EARTH'S CRUST AS THE MAIN SOURCE OF HYDROCARBON GENESIS”

Abstract

The results of studies of seismic and density properties of rocks, as well as some geodynamic processes occurring at high pressures and temperatures, taking into account the actual geological and geophysical data, allowed to present a new concept on the Genesis of hydrocarbons. The main source for all indicators is the dehydration of serpentinized rocks, relicts of the 3rd layer of oceanic crust, at different depths of the earth's crust in different regions of the Earth. Based on the proposed concept, the Genesis of some giant hydrocarbon deposits (the Gulf of Mexico, the Caspian basin, Western Siberia) is proposed. More than 17 criteria have been identified on the basis of which it is proposed to conduct prospecting and exploration in different regions of the Earth. For these regions, the territory of Armenia has been selected with more than 15 criteria specified. Specific structures have been identified and proposed for exploration, which, according to the proposed concept are the most promising in terms of oil and gas potential.