GAS-GEOCHEMICAL STUDIES OF SURFACE SEDIMENTS OF THE SOUTH TATAR SEDIMENTARY BASIN (SEA OF JAPAN)

The results of gas-geochemical and lithogeochemical studies of modern bottom sediments sampled in the South Tatar sedimentary basin (Sea of Japan) during a comprehensive geological and geophysical expedition on the R/V AkademikOparin (OP-54) are presented. Anomalies of hydrocarbon gases (УВГ) and chemical elements in surface bottom sediments were estimated. Sediments hosting hydrocarbons are mainly represented by aleuritic varieties with psammitic (up to 46%) and pelitic (up to 43%) components. The maximum contents of Si, Ti, K, Ca, Sr, Zr, Y are noted in the bottom sediments of coastal shelf zones; the concentrations of S, Ni, Cu, Zn, Pb, V, Fe, Mn, Rb increase in the shelf-bathyal direction. Sediments with anomalous methane contents are significantly enriched in S, Mn, V, Cu, Ni, Zn, Pb. The data obtained allows to suggest the presence of sources of hydrocarbon migration and further consider the prospects for conducting detailed work to assess the oil, gas and gas hydrate content in the southern part of the Tatar Strait.