Origins of massive-type sandstones in braided river systems

This study details largely ignored massive-type, predominantly structureless sandstones preserved within braided fluvial successions of Carboniferous to Triassic age. Architectural element analysis reveals that these sediments were deposited within sand-dominated perennial systems of low braiding index. Cross-stratified braid bar deposits are interbedded with, and laterally equivalent to geometrically distinct, largely structureless massive-type sandbodies identified as two separate architectural elements: channel-like (SMC) and sheet-like (SMS). Sub-divisions within these broad categories define six geometric units which are texturally distinct from each other and from the structured sediments of the same lithological unit. Since massive-type sandstone elements have many features in common with the deposits of highly concentrated, laminar sediment/water flows, they are interpreted in terms of similar depositional processes. SMC elements form elongate channel-like features which trend both at high angles to, and parallel with, the palaeoflow of host fluvial channels. The lower bounding surfaces of SMC elements may be either erosive or non-erosive, and describe symmetrical cross-sections with margins dipping <50°. Concentric laminae are preserved parallel to the scour margins which grade into a structureless sandstone fill. Diffuse laminae and water escape structures are commonly preserved in the upper portion of these elements, which are interpreted as the deposits of sandy debris flows related to fluvial bank and/or bar collapse. SMS elements form sandsheets up to 8 m in thickness which may be traced >250 m parallel and transverse to the fluvial palaeoflow direction established from cross-stratified sandstones of adjacent architectural elements. The basal surface of SMS elements may either be undulose (where the sandbodies are termed SMSU) or erosional (where they are termed SMSE). Internally SMSU elements preserve parallel laminae marginal to basal scours, diffuse sweeping laminae, isolated cross-sets and water escape structures. The SMSU sediments are compositionally identical to the structured sandstones with which they are associated and are interpreted as the result of deposition from highly concentrated stream flows developed through flooding and entrainment of sandy floodplain material. Along the basal surface of SMSE elements scours in excess of 4.5 m are preserved which are elongate both parallel and oblique to fluvial flow. These are commonly lined with a mudclast breccia and/or massive sandstone with crude laminae developed parallel with the margin. In the upper portion of SMSE elements diffuse dune structures and sweeping laminae are preserved. SMSE units are texturally and compositionally immature with respect to the cross-stratified sandstones with which they are associated. Thus, they are believed to be of first cycle origin and are interpreted as the deposits of highly concentrated flows possibly generated by glacial outburst floods or jِkulhaups.