The loess sequence from Remisowka (northern boundary of the Tien Shan Mountains, Kazakhstan)—Part I: Luminescence dating

Abstract

Similar to the Chinese loess, the loess deposits surrounding the high mountain regions of Central Asia play an important role in understanding the climate and environmental change during the Pleistocene in Eurasia. Despite their thickness and widespread distribution, the loess deposits in southeast Kazakhstan have so far not been investigated in detail. The Remisowka loess–palaeosol sequence is located in the vicinity of the North Tien Shan Mountains at an altitude of 1070 m above sea level. In the profile under study nine loess layers were distinguished, intercalated by eight pedocomplexes and so indicating a similar cyclicity like the loess–palaeosol sequences in Central Asia and China. At the Remisowka section, 12 loess samples were taken to set up a more reliable chronological model for the section, using a luminescence dating approach. Polymineral fine grains were investigated by infrared optically stimulated luminescence applying the multiple aliquot additive dose protocol. Preliminary fading experiments were carried out for one sample taken from the uppermost loess layer. While the results of the uppermost layer are in agreement with geological age estimates and indicate a correlation to the Late Glacial, age underestimation is very likely for the samples below the first weak palaeosol. No significant age increase with depth was recognised. The reason for this age underestimation is not yet fully understood but could be related to anomalous fading. Further methodological approaches are necessary as well as a combination of different chronometric techniques for improvement of the results.