X-ray Diffraction and Trace Element Analyses of K/Pg Boundary Samples Collected from Agost and Caravaca, Spain

Abstract

The boundary between Cretaceous and Paleogene (K/Pg) plays an important role in deciphering the Earth’s history and biological evolution from Mesozoic to Cenozoic. As such, the delineation and characterization of the boundary layer has attracted significant attention. In this study, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and elemental analyses were conducted to characterize the samples of boundary layer and the layers around Agost and Caravaca, Spain. The XRD results showed that the layers immediately above and below the boundary layer are made of limestone, while in the boundary layer, a significant increase in the clay minerals smectite, kaolinite, and illite was observed. The major element analyses revealed an increase in Si and Al contents, confirming the presence of clay minerals. The trace element analyses showed elevated concentrations of V, Cr, Ni, Zn, Pb, and Th, but not for Rb, Cu, and U. The rare Earth element (REE) analyses showed elevated La, Ce, and Nd concentrations in the boundary layer. Correlation analyses between selected trace elements and REE showed good agreements, with R2 values of about 0.9. The results agreed well with the finding in the area, except the lower contents of Rb, Cu, and U; thus, they may promote further studies to make detailed comparisons.