The formation of the northwestern Dniepr-Donets Basin: 2-D forward and reverse syn-rift and post-rift modelling

Forward and reverse modelling of structure and stratigraphy have been used to investigate the syn-rift (Devonian) and early post-rift (Carboniferous) evolution of the northwestern Dniepr-Donets Basin, Modelling shows that basin formation is consistent with Frasnian-Famennian rifting followed by post-rift subsidence starting in the early Tournaisian. Forward syn-rift modelling, using the flexural cantilever model of rift basin formation, satisfactorily models the observed syn-rift stratigraphic thicknesses and structure within the basin using total syn-rift extension of approximately 15 km in the region studied with a maximum beta stretching factor of 1.3. Forward structural and stratigraphic modelling suggests that the Devonian rifting, which formed the northwestern Dniepr-Donets Basin, was accompanied by regional uplift of the order of 300 m. Both forward and reverse (flexural backstripping) modelling of post-rift stratigraphy through the Carboniferous suggest that post-rift thermal subsidence, which commenced in the Tournaisian following Devonian rifting, was augmented by additional regional subsidence of the order of 300 m in middle Carboniferous times. Ir is suggested that this transient regional uplift event, which accompanied rifting and decayed in middle Carboniferous times, was generated by a mantle plume.