Geochemistry of mudrocks from the Calcare di Base Formation (Catanzaro Basin, Calabria): preliminary data

Abstract

The Messinian Salinity Crisis (MSC) occurred in the Mediterranean area during the late Miocene, between two glacial stages with a strong tectonic activity characterized by paleoclimate variations (alternated dry and warm/humid period). The geochemical composition of mudrocks of the Calcare di Base Formation (Catanzaro Basin, Calabria) was studied using X-Ray Flurescence. The data reveals that the Si, Ti, Al, Na, K, Mn and P concentrations are generally depleted relative to values of the PAAS (Post- Archaean Australian Shales). In particular, Na, K and Al depletions are probably due to the paucity/absence of feldspars and clay minerals. The relationships between the mobile and immobile elements indicate a weak- moderate source area(s) weathering environments with a paleoclimate characterized by persistent dry and warm/arid conditions alternating with relatively wet conditions. The geochemical proxies of the studied samples based on elemental ratios suggest a provenance from a mainly felsic source such as the rocks composed the Sila Massif.