Multi-method study of the Middle Pleistocene loess–palaeosol sequence of Köndringen, SW Germany

Schwahn, Lea; Schulze, Tabea; Fülling, Alexander; Zeeden, Christian; Preusser, Frank; Sprafke, Tobias (2023). Multi-method study of the Middle Pleistocene loess–palaeosol sequence of Köndringen, SW Germany E&G Quaternary Science Journal, 72(1), pp. 1-21. Deutsche Quartaervereinigung 10.5194/egqsj-72-1-2023

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Loess–palaeosol sequences (LPSs) remain poorly investigated in the southern part of the Upper Rhine Graben but represent an important element to understand the environmental context controlling sediment dynamics in the area. A multi-method approach applied to the LPS at Köndringen reveals that its formation occurred during several glacial–interglacial cycles. Field observations, as well as colour, grain size, magnetic susceptibility, organic carbon, and carbonate content measured in three profiles at 5 cm resolution, provide detailed stratigraphical information. Only minor parts of the LPS are made up of loess sediment, whereas the major parts are polygenetic palaeosols and pedosediments of varying development that are partly intersected, testifying to a complex local geomorphic evolution. The geochronological framework is based on 10 cm resolution infrared-stimulated luminescence (IRSL) screening combined with 18 multi-elevated-temperature post-IR IRSL ages. The luminescence ages indicate that two polygenetic, truncated Luvisols formed during marine isotope stages (MISs) 9(–7?) and MIS 5e, whereas unaltered loess units correspond to the last glacial (MISs 5d–2) and MIS 8. The channel-like structure containing the two truncated Luvisols cuts into > 2 m thick pedosediments apparently deposited during MIS 12. At the bottom of the LPS, a horizon with massive carbonate concretions (loess dolls) occurs, which may correspond to at least one older interglacial.

Item Type:

Journal Article (Original Article)

Division/Institute:

School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences HAFL
School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences HAFL > Agriculture
School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences HAFL > Agriculture > Soils and Geoinformation

Name:

Schwahn, Lea;
Schulze, Tabea;
Fülling, Alexander;
Zeeden, Christian;
Preusser, Frank and
Sprafke, Tobias0000-0003-1198-4482

Subjects:

G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GB Physical geography
Q Science > QE Geology
Q Science > QH Natural history

ISSN:

2199-9090

Publisher:

Deutsche Quartaervereinigung

Language:

English

Submitter:

Tobias Sprafke

Date Deposited:

20 Mar 2024 11:33

Last Modified:

20 Mar 2024 11:33

Publisher DOI:

10.5194/egqsj-72-1-2023

ARBOR DOI:

10.24451/arbor.21442

URI:

https://arbor.bfh.ch/id/eprint/21442

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