A Challenged Evaporite Paradigm?

Abstract

The general subject of this article deals with the term salt. Salt deposits usually contain chlorides, sulphates/gypsum, borates, carbonates, etc., that are seemingly part of the same system. Even though this article mainly presents data and observations on chlorides, which are not easily explained by the present paradigm, it should also prove relevant for the formation of sulphates and other types of salts observed in major salt deposits. The paradigm explaining large salt deposits rests on two pillars governing salt formation and salt deformation. Salt formation is thought to occur vis solar evaporation of seawater in restricted basins. Salt deformation and forming of salt diapirs is thought to occur due to gravity-induced movements. Our review presents peer-reviewed and published data and observations from different authors within different disciplines that challenge the present evaporite paradigm. The current theory/paradigm rests on numerous observations and interpretations in support of it. Adding more observational interpretations in support of the paradigm will not nullify even one observation that contradicts or remains unexplained by the theory. The contradicting evidence must be explained within the present paradigm for it to survive. Significant observations of and within salt deposits are presented, as well as visual and geophysical observations of salinity in crusts and mantles in relevant tectonic settings. In our view, the omnipresent salinity observed in the subsurface needs to be understood and included in the description of a new salt formation mechanism in order to fully explain all features presented herein.