Abstract
AbstractCalculations of absolute elemental gains and losses based on isovolumetric bedrock alteration are applied to deep weathering profiles and silcrete developed on Dwyka Tillite and Bokkeveld Shale. Bedrock weathering to kaolinite and illite yields sufficient SiO2 to account for observed thicknesses of associated silcrete. Absolute accumulation of SiO2 in silcrete is complemented by substantial absolute depletion of Al2O3. Absolute accumulation of TiO2 in both silcrete and associated weathered material together with authigenic anatase concentrations in silctete recorded during micromorphological investigations indicate TiO2 mobilization in a low pH environment (pH < 3·75) during silcrete formation. Under these low pH conditions increased Al2O3 solubility led to replacement of kaolinite and illite by a proportion of SiO2 retained in the weathering profile through restricted drainage.
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