Depth-Dependent Transformation of Kaolinite to Dickite In Sandstones of the Norwegian Continental Shelf

Abstract

AbstractReplacement of kaolinite by dickite has been observed to occur with increasing depth of burial in sandstones from three different basins on the Norwegian continental shelf. In the Garn Formation (Middle Jurassic) of Haltenbanken, samples from 1.4-2-7 km below the sea floor (110°C) contain kaolinite, whereas deeper than 3.2 km (130°C) mainly dickite is present. In the Statfjord Formation (Late Triassic-Early Jurassic) from Gullfaks and Gullfaks Sør Fields, transformation of kaolinite to dickite occurs at ~3.1 km below the sea floor (120°C) From the Stø and Nordmela Formations (Lower to Middle Jurassic) to the Troms Area, kaolin polytypes have been identified in only two shallow and two deep samples, but the results are consistent with the transformation depth determined in two other areas studied. These occurrences are significant because they allow the temperature of the kaolinite/dickite transformation to be established with greater confidence than had been possible previously. Also the observation of this transformation in all three areas so far examined indicates that it may be a general and predictable feature of kaolinbearing sandstones worldwide and therefore a potentially reliable paleogeothermometer. In most cases, the kaolinite occurs as relatively large vermicular crystals, whereas dickite forms more euhedral, blockier crystals. This morphological difference, together with the nature of the structural difference in octahedral occupancy between the kaolinite and dickite, suggests that the transformation occurs by dissolution and reprecipitation, rather then in the solid state.