INORGANIC GEOCHEMISTRY AS A TOOL FOR SEDIMENTOLOGICAL STUDIES

ABSTRACT

The study incorporates inorganic geochemistry for a comprehensive stratigraphic analysis. To further elucidate sediment provenance, paleo-redox conditions, tectonic settings, and sandstone classification, ditch cutting samples were collected from the Osedestiny well in the Niger Delta Basin. The geochemical results revealed trace element ratios of V/Cr and U/Th, suggesting an oxic environment for deposition. The sediments' source was identified as felsic rock through bivariate plots of Ni vs Tio2, La/Sc vs Th/Co, and trace elemental ratios including Th/Sc, Th/Co, Cr/Th,and La/Sc. Graphical representations of K2O/Na2O versus SiO2 and Log (K2O/Na2O) versus Log(SiO2/Al2O3)predominantly fell within the passive margin zone. Various chemical sandstone classification systems classified the sediments as sublitharenite, Fe-rich sand, and with minimal content of quartzarenite. This comprehensive geochemical approach enhances the understanding of sediment characteristics and depositional environments in the NigerDelta Basin.