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. Copernicus Publications 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:

08 Faculty of Science > Institute of Geography > Geographies of Sustainability > Unit Land Systems and Sustainable Land Management (LS-SLM)
08 Faculty of Science > Institute of Geography > Geographies of Sustainability
08 Faculty of Science > Institute of Geography

UniBE Contributor:

Sprafke, Tobias

Subjects:

900 History > 910 Geography & travel
500 Science
500 Science > 550 Earth sciences & geology

ISSN:

2199-9090

Publisher:

Copernicus Publications

Language:

English

Submitter:

Tobias Norbert Sprafke

Date Deposited:

30 Jun 2023 06:52

Last Modified:

28 Apr 2024 15:58

Publisher DOI:

10.5194/egqsj-72-1-2023

BORIS DOI:

10.48350/184246

URI:

https://boris.unibe.ch/id/eprint/184246

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