New palaeocurrent analysis approach from two-dimensional trough cross-strata using photographs and anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility

Abstract

Palaeocurrent analysis is vital for basin analysis and helps in the interpretation of depositional environments (along-slope or downslope). For that, it is crucial to have multiple measuring methods at hand to apply palaeocurrent analysis with a wide range of different datasets (outcrops, cores and photographs). Here, two relatively underexploited palaeocurrent measurement techniques are assessed when applied to trough cross-stratification observed in the Arenazzolo Formation at Eraclea Minoa (Sicily). The first technique is a novel design of a qualitative approach to infer palaeocurrent directions from photographs of two-dimensional sedimentary structures. The second technique involves measurements of the anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility from drilled samples. A broad agreement, with overlapping uncertainty boundaries, is observed between results from both techniques. This agreement validates the use of trough cross-strata to infer palaeocurrent directions. Moreover, the addition of photographs improves reproducibility and prevents a bias towards the best-exposed troughs. The application of both techniques to outcrops and sedimentary cores provides new opportunities for palaeocurrent analysis in any type of sedimentary environment.