Rapid hydrocarbon accumulation mechanism in later period in Kelasu thrust belt in Kuqa depression

Based on the analyses of generation, migration and accumulation of oil and gas in the structures of Kela 1, Kela 2 and Kela 3 in Kasangtuokai anticlinal belt using a series of geological and geochemical evidence, this paper proposes that the rapid rate of hydrocarbon generation, main drain path for overpressured fluid flow and converging conduit system are indispensable conditions for the rapid, late-stage gas accumulation in the Kelasu thrust belt in the Kuqa depression. Due to structural overlapping and the resultant rapid burial, the maturity of the source rocks had been increased rapidly from 1.3 to 2.5% R ^sub o^ within 2.3 Ma, with an average rate of R ^sub o^ increase up to 0.539% R ^sub o^/Ma. The rapid maturation of the source rocks had provided sufficient gases for late-stage gas accumulation. The kelasu structural belt has a variety of faults, but only the fault that related with fault propagation fold and cut through the gypsiferous mudstone cap could act as the main path for overpressured fluid release and then for fast gas accumulation in low fluid potential area. All the evidence from surface structure map, seismic profile explanation, authigenic kaolinite and reservoir property demonstrates that the main drain path related with faults for overpressured fluid and the converging conduit system are the key point for the formation of the giant Kela 2 gas field. By contrast, the Kela 1 and Kela 3 structures located on both sides of Kela 2 structure, are not favourable for gas accumulation due to lacking converging conduit system.[PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]