This report examines the palynostratigraphy of the Bunter Sandstone CO₂ storage complex through detailed analyses of two key onshore Triassic reference wells, located in North Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, encompassing the Penarth, Haisborough, and Bacton groups. The results significantly enhance our understanding of regional Triassic stratigraphy, with direct implications for subsurface projects, including for Geological Carbon Storage and Geological Disposal Facilities, specifically in the Southern North Sea Basin, but also along the wider UK continental shelf.

The study involved the analysis of 166 samples, including material from a unique, previously unstudied core providing near-continuous coverage of the Triassic succession. This analysis led to the recognition and description of nine biozones (Olenekian–Rhaetian), significantly enhancing regional correlations and refining the dating of key reservoir and seal units. The revised age model also allows for the linking of facies and biotic changes to global climatic events, thus augmenting their regional significance.

Delivery of data

The data are presented in a fully illustrated physical and electronic report (153 pages), which includes seven photoplates and enclosures documenting the biozone assemblages and the range and occurrence of their constituent Triassic palynomorphs, respectively.

Completed: November 2024.

Contact(s): Niall Paterson