Mapping of diagenetic processes in sandstones using imaging spectroscopy: A case study of the Utrillas Formation, Burgos, Spain

Distinctive characteristics of the absorption features of clay minerals were used to develop a kaolinite crystallinity index to identify detrital kaolinite and authigenic kaolinite in the Utrillas Formation. Results show that poorly ordered kaolinite is only present in floodplain deposits, whereas well-ordered authigenic kaolinite is related to paleochannel deposits and organic-rich irregular patches. Meteoric water flux probably induced feldspar and mica alteration, as well as authigenic clays precipitation. Contemporary microbial degradation of organic matter in the subsurface might be the cause of authigenic clay formation at the alteration areas. This study provides new data and interpretation on diagenetic alterations of the Utrillas Formation. Results of this work may have important implications in the mining industry as a methodology to evaluate mining areas of interest.