Understanding geological time: An innovative fusion of diagenetic and cyclostratigraphic concepts to reconstruct sediment composition, deposition rate, and geological time spans
Final Report Abstract
The aim of the project was to improve the reconstruction of time in the geologic record by integrating diagenetic and cyclostratigraphic methods into a holistic approach. The main research questions were (1) how do post-depositional processes and diagenesis affect the shape and manifestation of sedimentary cycles in rhythmically alternating lithologies? and (2) how is time distributed within an individual astronomically-forced sedimentary cycle? To achieve this research aim we selected several IODP and ODP drill cores and outcrops which span different depositional settings and ages. The project started with collecting and organising all available data on the target drill cores, and preparing the field trip to two outcrops in Poland. Unfortunately, the polish quarry authorities denied sampling and the field work had to be cancelled. Sampling the drill cores in the Bremen Core Repository took place in December 2023 as planned. For one drill site the cores were much deploited and a visit to Utrecht was necessary to retrieve residual sample material. I finished the initial stage of data accumulation and organisation, as well as sampling and starting to analyse the samples. The project will be pursued in alternate form.
