High-Resolution Distribution of Organic Matter in Carbonate-Rich Oil Shales Controlled by Climatic Cycles and Depositional Environments

The objective of this joint sedimentological and organic matter study was to document and understand the vertical heterogeneity of organic matter distribution of an oil shale interval which belongs to the lower Muwaqqar Fm in Jordan. The high resolution logging of organic carbon using new pyrolysis instrument reveals the cm-scale rhythmic bedding of the oil shale deposits. Cyclostratigraphy based on recognition of Milankovitch cycles appears to control the alternation of rich and lean organic layers within this carbonate interval.