Magister Scientiae - MSc (Earth Science)

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https://hdl.handle.net/10566/20292

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    The petrophysical analysis and evaluation of hydrocarbon potential of sandstone units in the Bredasdorp Central Basin
    (University of the Western Cape, 2005-12-01) Olajide, Oluseyi; Carey, Paul F.
    This research was aimed at employing the broad use of petrophysical analysis and reservoir modelling techniques to explore the petroleum resources in the sandstone units of deep marine play in the Bredasdorp Basin.
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    A structural analysis of the Ou Kaapse Weg fault zone, Cape Peninsula, South Africa
    (University of the Western Cape, 2024) Arnold, Andy Antonio
    This thesis presents a structural analysis of the Ou Kaapse Weg Fault Zone, situated within the Silvermine Nature Reserve, with a specific focus on its interactions with the Muizenberg Fault Zone. The study aimed to characterise the fault systems, document their structural complexities, and place them within the broader tectonic framework of the region. A combination of detailed field mapping, remote sensing techniques, lineament extraction, and kinematic analysis was employed to identify and interpret the fault and joint systems in the area. Results indicate that thefaults within the Ou Kaapse Weg Fault Zone, particularly the Silvermine, Waterfall, and Boyes-Drive Faults, as well as the Muizenberg Fault Zone are predominantly strike-slip in nature, with significant evidence of left- lateral (sinistral) movement. Additionally, four major joint sets were identified: joint set-1 (NW-SE), joint set-2 (NE-SW), joint set-3 (E-W), and joint set-4 (N-S), which are spatially associated with the dominant fault trends. The spatial distribution and density of joints were found to increase significantly near fault zones, forming well-defined damage zones. These areas of intense fracturing are characterised by both orthogonal and conjugate joints. The presence of displaced joints and joint step-overs further underscores the complex stress regime and kinematics of the area.
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    Designing a virtual geological field trip based on geo-cognition principles
    (University of the Western Cape, 2024) Maart Rudy B.
    This thesis investigates the design of Virtual Field Trips (VFT) using geocognition principles for geology education. As traditional in-person field trips face logistical, financial and accessibility challenges, this study explores Virtual Field Trip as a complementary tool. The VFT were created using high-resolution photography and geocognitive frameworks to create overlays and info text to highlight important features the students should be aware of when exploring an outcrop. The effectiveness of the VFT's design was tested on two first-year cohorts at the University of the Western Cape. Through a pre- & post-assessment approach, the learning gained from the VFTs was analysized. The results showed that the concepts that the VFTs explicitly showed, showed significant learning gained and the concepts that were merely implied showed little learning gained. Reflective feedback from the students emphasize the visual detail and interactive elements enhanced their understanding, though they recognized the importance of multimedia enhancements and instructor-led engagement. While VFTs are not meant to replace in-person field trips, they do offer a valuable and versatile educational tool. This study recommends the continued use and development of VFTs within the geosciences
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    Application of the minalyzer core scanner in sandstone reservoirs of the orange basin, South Africa for reservoir zonation
    (University of the Western Cape, 2025) Snyman, Dian
    This thesis investigates the elemental and petrophysical properties of tight sandstone reservoirs in the Orange Basin, South Africa, focussing on two wells, AC1 and AJ1. The study employs the Minalyzer Core Scanner for high- resolution X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis to characterize reservoir zonation and heterogeneity. The integration of continuous elemental data with petrophysical information from the Petroleum Agency of South Africa (PASA) provides a comprehensive approach to understanding reservoir quality and hydrocarbon potential. Key findings indicate that the sandstone reservoirs are predominantly composed of silica, with significant concentrations of potassium, calcium, and aluminium, suggesting a mixed depositional environment. Variations in elemental composition between wells AC1 and AJ1 reflect differences in sedimentary processes and diagenetic history, with well AJ1 exhibiting superior permeability and fluid flow potential. Additionally, Sr/Cu ratios are used to infer depositional environments and climate influences on sedimentation. Five distinct flow zones were identified with porosity ranging from 1.0 to 24.7%, permeability from 0.1 to 7777mD, and pore throat radius from 0.1 to 17.5 μm.
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    The geology, geochemistry, and geochronology of proterozoic gneisses in the Lüderitz area, southern Namibia: insights into the evolution of the NW Namaqua Metamorphic Province
    (University of the Western Cape, 2025) Shifotoka, Gerhard Mekondjo Naatangwe
    The basement rocks of the Lüderitz area, SW Namibia are dominated by migmatitic metavolcanic and intrusive gneisses that resemble those of the Paleoproterozoic Richtersveld Magmatic Arc (~1890 Ma; RMA; of the Namaqua Natal Metamorphic Province (NNMP)). Detailed geological mapping, geochemistry, isotopic and geochronological analysis was undertaken to establish a new, modern lithostratigraphy for the area and to determine whether the Lüderitz gneisses indeed form part of the RMA. The mafic, andesitic and dacitic metavolcanic gneisses (1876 ± 9 Ma) are grouped in the Albatrosskop Formation and occur as rafts within the coeval orthogneisses (1918-1855 Ma). Six main types of orthogneiss were mapped, namely: the Kolmanskop Migmatite, Adventure Bay metagabbro-metadiorite, the Radford Bay, Kowisberg and Albatross Bay granodiorite-granite gneisses and the Elizabeth Point leucogranite gneiss. The volcanic and plutonic rocks are overlain by the Dagger Rocks Group that yielded a youngest detrital grain age of 1731 ± 46 Ma. The supracrustal and plutonic rocks were strongly deformed and metamorphosed during the polyphase Mesoproterozoic Namaqua Orogeny.
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    Using Geophysical Tools for Aquifer Characterisation of Paleowater’s: A Case Study of the Bredasdorp Basin, South Africa
    (University of the Western Cape, 2025) Patel, Malikah
    Reservoir depletion in the Bredasdorp Basin has come with many rising challenges, such as exorbitant decommissioning costs and deteriorating pipelines. However, a depleted offshore reservoir also has many opportunities that can be explored. This research study looks closely at offshore aquifers occurring in the Central Bredasdorp Basin, South Africa, as an alternative source of water. Groundwater usage accounts for 56% of South Africa’s population, either as sole or combined with surface water resources. Therefore, exploring different water sources is essential to the sustainability of our water resource management and security. Offshore aquifer research bridges the gap between two research groups, petroleum geology and hydrogeology, but is very rarely a reality, as data is not publicly available due to propriety rights restrictions. Integration of seismic and well log data acquired by the petroleum industry has demonstrated the effectiveness for offshore fresh groundwater modelling.