The Role of SiO2 Boxwork in Hypogene Karstification: Distinctions from Epigene Processes and Implications for Secondary Mineral Deposition

Buchanan 2022

Abstract

This paper explores the significance of SiO2 boxwork structures as indicators of hypogene karstification, contrasting them with epigenetic processes. It discusses the formation mechanisms of chert and boxwork, their implications for groundwater migration, and their role in the development of karst features. The paper emphasises the lack of SiO2 boxwork in epigene environments due to limited groundwater permeation and highlights the relevance of low-energy settings in secondary mineral deposition.

Introduction

Karst systems are characterised by unique geological features formed through the dissolution of soluble rocks, primarily limestone and dolomite. This paper focuses on the distinctions between hypogene and epigene karstification, particularly the role of SiO2 boxwork structures in hypogene environments.

Hypogene vs. Epigene Karstification

  • Hypogene Karstification: Occurs at greater depths, influenced by thermal or mineral-rich groundwater. SiO2 boxwork forms through the diagenesis of silica-rich sediments and the precipitation of silica from hydrothermal fluids.
  • Epigene Karstification: Driven by surface water interactions, leading to the dissolution of carbonate rocks. Features such as sinkholes and caves are formed primarily through surface processes.

SiO2 Boxwork as an Indicator of Hypogene Processes

  • Formation Mechanism: Chert and boxwork structures indicate deep-seated processes, reflecting unique hydrological regimes. Their presence suggests enhanced permeability and groundwater flow paths influenced by hypogene conditions.
  • Groundwater Dynamics: SiO2 boxwork enhances groundwater migration and influences the dissolution of host carbonates, contributing to the development of karst features like caves and proto caves (Classic hypogenic caves not open to atmosphere).

Lack of SiO2 Boxwork in Epigene Environments

  • Groundwater Permeation: The absence of significant groundwater flow at depth in epigene systems limits the conditions necessary for SiO2 boxwork formation.
  • Secondary Mineral Deposition: In low-energy epigene environments, secondary mineral deposition is characterised by minerals like calcite and gypsum, rather than silica-rich structures.

Conclusion

SiO2 boxwork structures are critical indicators of hypogene karstification, highlighting the differences between hypogene and epigenetic processes. Understanding these distinctions is essential for interpreting karst systems and their associated groundwater resources.

References

  1. Palmer, A. N. (1991). Origin and Morphology of Karst. In: Karst Geomorphology (pp. 1-20). New York: Wiley.
  2. Ford, D. C., & Williams, P. (2007). Karst Hydrogeology and Geomorphology. Chichester: Wiley.
  3. White, W. B. (1988). Geochemistry of Karst Waters. In: Karst Hydrology (pp. 1-20). New York: Wiley.
  4. Hill, C. A. (2000). Cave Minerals of the World. 3rd ed. Huntsville, AL: National Speleological Society.
                                                    Chert Boxwork with Microbial Moonmilk

 

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