Cyclostratigraphic analyses of Upper Cretaceous chalk successions, based on high-resolution geochemical data, has proven successful for dating and correlating rock strata. However, this approach has not yet been applied in the type-Maastrichtian area in the southeastern part of the Netherlands and northeastern Belgium – which would put its rich paleontological record better in time . Even though other apparent cyclic variations, such as changes in bioclast compositions and suggested Milankovitch-paced flint cycles, already have been used to build a tentative cyclostratigraphic age model for the type-Maastrichtian, the interpretation of these signals is rather complex. This Master dissertation is a contribution towards the Maastrichtian Geoheritage Project, presenting a new high-resolution (5 cm) micro X-ray fluorescence geochemical dataset and cyclostratigraphic interpretation of the type-Maastrichtian chalk elemental composition of the Gulpen Formation. The selected, continuous interval of 22.75 m is characterized by a gradual increase in chalk purity and corresponding increase in flint occurrence. A methodological assessment was carried out for micro X-ray fluorescence measurements on type-Maastrichtian chalk. In addition, fine-tuning of magnetic susceptibility measurements on type-Maastrichtian chalk was carried out and the potential of magnetic susceptibility as a proxy for terrigenous material was explored.
A new independent age model for type-Maastrichtian chalk of the Kreco quarry near Hallembaye (Gulpen Formation, Upper Cretaceous), using a cyclostratigraphic approach based on X-ray fluorescence data
Huygh, J. ((PhD) Student), Vellekoop, J. (Co-promotor), Sinnesael, M. (Co-promotor), Kaskes, P. (Advisor), Claeys, P. (Promotor). 28 Jun 2021
Student thesis: Master's Thesis