Features of meteoric diagenesis in coquinas of Morro do Chaves Formation (Barremian-Aptian of Sergipe-Alagoas Basin)

Abstract

The Morro do Chaves Formation (Barremian-Aptian of the Sergipe-Alagoas Basin) presents a sedimentary succession of approximately 150 m of thickness, composed of coquinas. Despite the sedimentological, stratigraphic, and petrophysical studies developed in coquinas, the general understanding of the relationship between sedimentary processes and meteoric diagenesis is not clear. The aim of this study is to recognize and understand the features of meteoric diagenesis in bioclastic from a well core drilled at Atol quarry. The core is composed of calcarenites and calcirudites interbedded with sandstones and shales. Taphonomic signatures show a low degree of physical alteration, without shells in life position. The main features related to meteoric diagenesis are bioclasts with bioerosive macrostructures (Caulostrepsis isp. and Oichnus isp.) and destructive micritization process. This was the main alteration process identified in the bioclasts and occurs throughout the coquinas interval and, in some beds, it was possible to distinguish three different stages of micritization. The differentiation of the stages results from different periods of variation of water depth, intensity of microorganisms attack, time of alteration, and variations in siliciclastic input. Additionally, one interval exhibits extremely micritized shells, curved fissures, and carbonate nodules, interpreted as having been deposited and subsequently altered in a palustrine environment.

KEYWORDS:
meteoric alteration; micritization; bioclasts; Atol quarry; Morro do Chaves Formation