Sequence Stratigraphic Mapping of point bar deposits in the MU2 and MU3 units of the McMurrayFormation, Sunrise Lease, Athabasca Oil Sands

This project will map the sandstone and shale deposits in the McMurray Formation to improve resource extraction and recovery efficiency. The detail that this study will provide can help lower our energy sector’s carbon footprint in the future, and answer questions regarding changes in coastal river environments. It examines the interaction between rivers and the open seaway and the effects that has on the upstream reach of those rivers, potentially affecting over 60% of the world’s population who live within 100km of the coastline, at an elevation of less than 10 m above sea level. Additionally, this work predicts the behavior and migration of coastal rivers in times of earth’s history that experienced significant changes in sea level and potentially changes in climate.

Faculty Supervisor:

Janok P. Bhattacharya

Student:

David Kynaston

Partner:

Husky Oil Operations Ltd.

Discipline:

Geography / Geology / Earth science

Sector:

University:

McMaster University

Program: