Abstract: Restoring the exact thickness of eroded strata is critical to reconstruct the histories of initial sedimentary-structural evolution, thermal evolutions, hydrocarbon generation, expulsion, migration and accumulation, and also to quantitatively evaluate the potential of oil and gas resources. On the basis of the scientific definition of eroded thickness and the analysis of factors that affect eroded strata thickness, a new category scheme on eroded strata thickness restoration in sedimentary basins is proposed, which classifies all currently used methods into five types as geological comparison, geothermal parameters, well logging technology, sedimentary rate and the others. Four commonmethods are also discussed to analyze the basic principle, advantages and disadvantages, and applicability of the new method. It is considered that the eroded strata thickness should be restored quantitatively and synthetically by using proper method combined with other approaches based on the understanding of regional geological backgrounds and characteristic of other methods.

Key words: strata uplift and erosion, eroded strata thickness, restoration method, sedimentary basin