Cryogenic physico‐chemical precipitations: Iron, silica, calcium carbonate

• Published in: Permafrost and Periglacial Processes
• Main Author: Vogt, Thea
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Wiley 1990
• Subjects: Permafrost and Periglacial Processes
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/ppp.3430010308; https://api.wiley.com/onlinelibrary/tdm/v1/articles/10.1002%2Fppp.3430010308; https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/ppp.3430010308

Abstract In Quaternary and present‐day alluvial deposits, secondary mineral accumulations are common. Previous theoretical and experimental studies have shown the occurrence of frost‐related iron and calcium carbonate precipitations. Microscopic and ultramicroscopic observations of alluvial materials from Quaternary cold periods allow the recognition of diagnostic features of cryogenic calcite crystallizations. Some iron and silica concentrations also suggest frost control, although further laboratory experiments are needed to obtain a satisfactory understanding of the mechanisms concerning these precipitations. Nevertheless, it can be suggested that the migration of minerals under frost action is probably more important than previously taken into account.