REDDENED BEDS IN THE COAL MEASURES BENEATH THE PERMIAN OF DURHAM AND SOUTH NORTHUMBERLAND

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Summary: A zone of reddening of Coal Measures sediments averaging 25 ft. thick underlies the sub-Permian surface in Durham and south-east Northumberland. It is present irrespective of stratigraphical horizon. The fact that the basal Permian sands and the Permian limestones which rest on the surface are nowhere reddened is regarded as conclusive evidence that the reddening of the Coal Measures strata took place before the commencement of Permian sedimentation in the area. Petrographical study indicates that it is due to oxidation of pyrite and chalybite in situ and to introduction of red iron oxide along joints and in the pore-spaces of sandstones. It is suggested that hot-humid uplands during the Coal Measures-Zechstein interval became covered with thick red soils, perhaps in part protected by rain forests. Erosion of these soils from remaining high areas in late Zechstein, Bunter and Keuper times may have contributed towards “Red Bed” sediments.