ROCK MAGNETIC ANALYSES OF THE MIOCENE-PLIOCENE SEDIMENTS OF THE WEST ALBORÁN BASIN (IODP LEG 401 HOLE U1611A)

Abstract

This thesis presents a comprehensive study of the rock magnetic properties of Miocene-Pliocene sediments from the West Alborán Basin, retrieved from IODP Leg 401, Hole U1611A. The research aims to understand the magnetic mineralogy and paleoenvironmental conditions during the Messinian Salinity Crisis (MSC), a major geological event that drastically altered the Mediterranean's salinity and hydrology. By applying a range of rock magnetic techniques—Natural Remanent Magnetization (NRM), Anhysteretic Remanent Magnetization (ARM), Isothermal Remanent Magnetization (IRM), and thermomagnetic measurements—the study identifies significant variations in sediment composition and magnetic properties. These findings reveal changes in depositional environments, suggest shifts in the region’s paleoenvironmental conditions, and offer insights into the MSC's impact on the geodynamic evolution of the Mediterranean. The results also highlight the presence of high-coercivity magnetic minerals and alternating polarity intervals, contributing to the ongoing debate regarding the connectivity and geological processes in the Alborán Basin during the MSC.