Tectonic control and geometric characterization of hydrothermal vent complex using seismic data, Potiguar Basin – Brazil

Abstract. Hydrothermal vent complexes in sedimentary basins are linked to igneous intrusions, which induce structural and thermal perturbations, causing forced folds, hydrocarbon maturation, and fluid remobilization. While their genesis is often associated with magmatic heat and hydraulic fracturing, the controlling factors of their geometry and development remain debated. This study analyzes 3D seismic data from the Potiguar Basin (onshore Brazil), identifying vent structures, two of which were extracted in a 3D perspective from the variance attribute. Our results indicate that all the vents are structurally controlled by regional-scale faults, which enhance permeability starting from the hydraulic fracturing and boiling processes. Seismic attributes, such as variance and dip illumination have proven effective in identifying vent structures, fault associations, and fluid pathways, providing insights into their spatial distribution and geometric characteristics. Cosine of phase attribute reveals that hydrothermal vents exhibit varying geometries as they cut different sedimentary units within the basin. Our findings highlight the petrophysical implications of a fault zone in a hydrothermal vent complex and advance understanding of silicification processes in sedimentary reservoirs.