Salvador is an MS. candidate at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology supervised by Professor Frans van Buchem in the Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering program. His research focuses on studying asphaltite’s geochemical properties, using analytical techniques such as TOC analysis, SEM, geochemistry, and biomarkers. Salvador has extensive experience leading interdisciplinary teams to explore energy projects and integrate geochemistry and geophysics data to produce accurate cinematic models. He aims to expand his knowledge of asphaltite’s origins and potential applications in the asphalt, foundry, bitumen, and energy industries. 

MS Thesis abstract:

Geochemical Characterization of Asphaltite Deposits in the Middle Magdalena Valley, Colombia: Unveiling Their Origins and Potential

This thesis deals with the geochemical characteristics and depositional origins of asphaltite deposits in the San Pablo mine, located in Colombia's Middle Magdalena Valley Basin (MMVB). Utilizing advanced analytical techniques including Rock-Eval pyrolysis, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, this study explores the linkage between these asphaltites and their potential source rock, the La Luna Formation (Turonian-Coniacian). Key findings indicate that the asphaltites consist primarily of organic matter (88%) of marine origin, have a high hydrogen index, and are significantly enriched in vanadium and chromium. The similarity in biomarker composition of the asphaltites and associated oil seeps confirms a shared origin, supporting the La Luna Formation as a primary source. The Andean tectonics determined the migration pathway, distribution, and timing of the asphaltite, which is distributed in fracture-controlled pathways. The results not only shed light on the genesis, geochemical composition, and properties of the MMVB asphaltites but also have implications for the regional petroleum systems.