Inter-Basin Comparison of Sedimentary dynamics and Diagenetic Evolution of the Middle Buntsandstein: Insights from Outcrop Samples (Vosges and Trier) and Subsurface Data (Southern Netherlands)

This study explores the depositional and diagenetic evolution of the Lower Triassic Middle Buntsandstein exposed in the Vosges and Trier areas and subsurface strata from released wells in the southern Netherlands. Analysis of sedimentological and petrographical properties reveals marked dissimilarities in lithostratigraphic units, despite shared tectonic and climatic settings. The stratigraphic successions reveal the evidence of climate change throughout the deposition of Middle Buntsandstein within and across the basins. The sedimentary structures and detrital compositions are matched well between the outcrops and subsurface samples, indicating analogous source rock types. Eodiagenetic processes, predominantly controlled by depositional environments and climatic conditions, exhibit similarities in both sample series. Subsurface samples, however, display higher concentration of mesodiagenetic cements (e.g., (non-) ferroan calcite/dolomite, siderite and anhydrite). In addition, extensive quartz overgrowths also suggest a higher thermal exposure than outcrop samples. In outcrop samples, telodiagenetic processes have significantly altered the grain framework because of the dissolution of carbonate nodules/cements and the precipitation of Fe- and Mn- oxides. Moreover, bleaching processes are a function of the interaction of reducing and/or acidic fluids, which depends on the basin evolution and thus differs within and across the basins.