Sandstone predictions

Sandstone prediction is the last step in the source to sink reconstruction and provides the ultimate linkage between hinterland events (uplifts, magmatism, rifting, climate), and the settled, buried sedimentary packages offshore. A multi-phased workflow was developed to systematically predict sandstone provenance, texture and mineralogy, from the geodynamic framework and the results of the S2S studies. Provenance lithology, tectonic setting, effects of climate and transport, river length (distant vs proximal sources), slope, oceanography and environment of deposition are amongst factors that influence sandstone characteristics. These are defined through S2S studies and prediction can also be made on diagenetic pathways.  

Go to Methods. Or read more on how sandstone mineralogy evolved after the Karoo Plume eruption.