Early diagenetic deformation structures of the Furongian ribbon rocks in Shandong Province of China—A new perspective of the genesis of limestone conglomerates

Abstract

Ribbon rocks are characterized by an alternation of millimeter- to centimeter-thick limestone and argillaceous deposits (marlstone or shale). The sedimentary processes and diagenetic characteristics of ribbon rocks might be critical to the formation of limestone conglomerates. According to detailed field measurement and laboratory analyses (thin section observation and XRD analysis), four types of ribbon rocks are classified, i.e., limestone and marlstone couplet (L-M), limestone and shale couplet (L-S), thin-bedded lime mudstone (Ltb), and laminated limestone and marlstone couplet (Cl). These ribbon rocks were mostly deposited in low-energy subtidal environments (below fair-weather wave base). Ribbon rocks exhibit various subtle deformation structures such as intrastratal cracks and “boudin” structures. Differential cementation of carbonate and argillaceous layers during early diagenesis is a prerequisite condition for the deformation of ribbon rock under compaction. Ribbon rocks would be deformed into limestone conglomerates under differential compaction that might be triggered by external forces such as storm and earthquake.