Using 3-D mapping to understand an Upper Ordovician buildup and facies complex in the upper Lexington Limestone, central Kentucky, USA

Abstract

The upper parts of the Upper Ordovician Lexington Limestone in central Kentucky, USA, are interpreted to reflect a structurally controlled carbonate buildup, represented by a facies mosaic of shoal complexes and interbedded shale units. Facies intertonguing is complex and two-dimensional (2-D) mapping has been difficult. In this project, we converted 2-D maps to 3-D maps to show the extent of various facies and the complex nature of intertonguing. The resulting 3-D maps can be viewed from various vantage points and show the likely influence of basement structures as well as the results of post-depositional structural activity.

Keywords

• upper ordovician
• lexington limestone
• facies mosaic
• structure
• 2-d maps
• three-dimensional (3-d) mapping