Implications of the geochemistry of L1LL1 (MIS2) loess in Poland for paleoenvironment and new normalizing values for loess-focused multi-elemental analyses

• DOI: 10.1017/qua.2023.69
• Publication Date: 2024-01-31T05:53:25Z
• Authors: Jacek Skurzyński; Zdzisław Jary; Kaja Fenn; Frank Lehmkuhl; Jerzy Raczyk; Thomas Stevens; Małgorzata Wieczorek
• Keywords: info:eu-repo/classification/ddc/550; Geosciences, Multidisciplinary; Multidisciplinär geovetenskap

Abstract Loess paleoenvironmental reconstructions on regional to supra-regional scales have recently gained much attention. Geochemistry comparisons in relation reference datasets, such as the Upper Continental Crust (UCC) data, furthered our understanding of climatic and geomorphological conditions under which terrestrial sites developed. However, UCC data differs from loess, thereby obscuring important features, existing “average loess” datasets also are not sufficient for modern investigations. In this study, we examine youngest Polish loess (L1LL1 = MIS 2, ca. 26–15 ka) its suitability a new, loess-focused dataset. Eighty-nine samples seven were analyzed, using inductively coupled plasma spectrometry. The had assumedly been homogenized during transportation and/or sedimentary recycling (La N /Sm 3.34–4.06, median 3.78; Eu/Eu* 0.46–0.66, 0.55; Gd /Yb 1.08–1.49, 1.26), weakly affected by pre- or post-depositional weathering (CIA 53.64–69.12, 57.69). statistically significant differences between elemental medians mostly conditioned variations grain size “fresh” “re-deposited” sediment ratio. Nonetheless, overall geochemical composition homogeneity provided basis estimation Median (PML) determined 41 chemical elements. When used, PML highlight regions Europe, providing tool cross-continental comparisons.