Loess stratigraphy in Dutch and Belgian Limburg

Abstract

Purpose of this paper is constructing a loessstratigraphical framework for a small region along the Albert Canal in Dutch and Belgian Limburg. Field observation and heavy mineral analysis are central focus of this study. The large-scale sediment trap environment, at scarpe foots or between river-Terraces led to the conservation of thick and differentiated loess sequences. The exposed walls of the widened Albert Canal, loess sections in the adjacent loess-exploitation zone and excavations at four major archeological sites did provide important data. By means of characteristic lithological and paleopedological "marker"horizons, mineralogical and chronological data and correlation with loess sections in Germany, a reliable loess-stratigraphical framework has been constructed. Beginning with the Holsreinian, it is matching marine/ice isotope records and terrestrial lacustrine pollen records. It contains four glacial loess cycles with five intercalated interglacial paleosols on top of the Rothem river terrace of the Maas.