Chapter 12: evolution of organic matter as an indicator of erosion

Résumé -Abstract - Zusammenfassung -:Coal beds of less than 1 m thickness underlying karstified Triassic carbonates were sampled. Laboratory vitrinite reflectivity measurements provide information about the degree of diagenetic evolution of organic matter. Modelling using the WAPLES technique calibrated on the laboratory measurements indicates that the measured values can be explained only by the higher regional rates of sedimenation of the Triassic series, or at least by rates higher than the regional average. A post-Triassic sedimentation is probable. The geomorphological models normally used for the area are compatible with these conclusions.

Keywords : Geohistory, burial depth, organic matter, coal, vitrinite diagenesis,  geomorphology, karst, Permian, China, Guizhou.