The sedimentology and geochemistry of the Second White Specks Formation, north/central Alberta, Canada

Deposition of the calcareous and organic carbon-rich Cenomanian-Turonian Second White Specks Formation occurred during maximum transgression of the Western Interior Seaway with corresponding high organic productivity in the upper water column and anoxic bottom waters. The Formation has been well studied in southern Alberta, however, less is known about the unit's properties in central and northern Alberta. To characterize the Formation in central and northern Alberta, paleontology, palynology, sedimentology and geochemistry have been used with geophysical logs to produce a basin-wide framework.; The shale is unique due to its potential as both a source and reservoir rock for hydrocarbons. Geochemically, some maximum values for the unit include: 1331 ppb Ag, 140 ppm Cu, 169 ppm Mo, 290 ppm Ni, 469 ppm Zn, 22.1% S and 10.8% organic carbon. Some locations are enriched enough in organic carbon and metals to be geochemically classified as a metalliferous black shale.