Cretaceous well-log and sequence stratigraphic correlation of the outer continental shelf and upper slope off of New Jersey

Distinct, regionally continuous Cretaceous sand bodies are present beneath the outer continental shelf and upper slope off of New Jersey that encompasses much of the basin known as the Baltimore Canyon Trough (BCT). These sand bodies are possible candidates for liquid CO2 sequestration. This thesis aims to delineate and correlate four distinct sand units (Middle Sandstone, Upper Logan Canyon, Lower Logan Canyon Sand units, and Missisauga Unit) and their suitability for CO2 sequestration that requires sufficient depth, porosity, permeability, spatial continuity and presence of cap rock. I have analyzed geophysical logs and biostratigraphic data from 11 wells to identify the lithostratigraphic units of the BCT that are potentially suitable for carbon sequestration and have established three well log transects to demonstrate the spatial continuity of the target sand units.;The correlation of lithostratigraphic units along the dip profiles reveals the stratigraphic patterns of the target sand units. The Middle Sandstone Unit has a progradational pattern throughout the study area, spanning the Coniacian through Santonian. Weak continuity and presence of hydrocarbon-bearing intervals indicate that this unit is not suitable for sequestration. The Upper Logan Canyon Sand Unit has a progradational pattern, spanning the Albian through Cenomanian. This sand body has a spatial continuity in the northeastern part of the BCT area and includes thick porous sandstone beds sealed with impermeable rocks above, suggesting potential for sequestration. The Lower Logan Canyon Sand Unit follows a retrogradational pattern, spanning the Aptian through Albian. The Lower Logan Canyon Sand Unit promises more continuity towards the south, unlike the upper unit. The Lower Logan Canyon Sand Unit is more favorable as a sequestration target. The Missisauga Unit has a progradational pattern, spanning the Hauterivian through Aptian. This unit is very thick and continuous throughout the study area, including abundant porous sand beds sealed with impermeable beds. However, many gas-bearing intervals are present within this deeply buried unit, and the age control is ambiguous, thus, making it a less favorable to unfavorable sequestration target.