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How reliable is µXRF core scanning at detecting tephra layers in sedimentary records? A case study using the Lake Suigetsu archive (central Japan)
Journal of Quaternary Science, Volume: 37, Issue: 7, Pages: 1189 - 1206
Swansea University Authors: Danielle McLean, Paul Albert
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DOI (Published version): 10.1002/jqs.3432
Abstract
Here, we evaluate the ability of micro X-ray fluorescence (µXRF) core scanning to identify non-visible volcanic ash (cryptotephra) layers in sedimentary records. Its suitability is assessed using the annually resolved lacustrine sediments of Lake Suigetsu (Japan) for which there is high-resolution I...
Published in: | Journal of Quaternary Science |
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ISSN: | 0267-8179 1099-1417 |
Published: |
Wiley
2022
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Online Access: |
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URI: | https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa66239 |
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Abstract: |
Here, we evaluate the ability of micro X-ray fluorescence (µXRF) core scanning to identify non-visible volcanic ash (cryptotephra) layers in sedimentary records. Its suitability is assessed using the annually resolved lacustrine sediments of Lake Suigetsu (Japan) for which there is high-resolution ITRAX µXRF core scanning data, and a detailed crypto-tephrostratigraphy (formerly established via density separation techniques). The studied core sections contain 10 visible and 30 cryptotephra markers that span a range of glass concentrations (from 1000 to >20 000 shards per gram of dried sediment) and compositions (basalts, trachy-andesites, phonolites, trachytes and rhyolites), thus providing an ideal case study. The ITRAX core scanner produced recognisable µXRF elemental responses for the visible ash layers, including those just 1 mm thick. However, just 10% of the cryptotephra layers could be unequivocally identified. Although this study demonstrates that µXRF core scanning should not be used as an independent method within a similar geological setting, we show it can provide a powerful tool alongside traditional techniques. Where detected, µXRF profiles can verify and refine cryptotephra positions (here to a sub-millimetre resolution), and help establish reworking signatures. These insights create possibilities for ultra-precise synchronisation of records, improved chronological modelling and help generate more complete eruption histories. |
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Keywords: |
Tephra Detection; ITRAX; Lake Suigetsu; Lake sediment; µXRF core scanning |
College: |
Faculty of Science and Engineering |
Funders: |
UK Research and Innovation. Grant Number: MR/S035478/1
Natural Environment Research Council. Grant Number: NE/D000289/1
Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS). Grant Number: KAKENHI-15H021443 |
Issue: |
7 |
Start Page: |
1189 |
End Page: |
1206 |