New sequence stratigraphic framework on a ‘passive’ margin: Implications for post-breakup depositional environment and onset of glaciomarine conditions in Northeast Greenland
Detailed sequence stratigraphic frameworks have been produced for most of the Cenozoic deposits around the North Atlantic and Greenland Sea. However, the sequence stratigraphic evolution of the Northeast Greenland shelf, a significant part of the Atlantic Ocean margin, has so far never been interpreted. This study provides for the first time, a detailed sequence stratigraphic interpretation of the Northeast Greenland shelf since the late Eocene. Tectonic evolution, eustatic sea level change and the impact of glaciations are integrated into a consistent geological history. Based on the identification of pronounced unconformities and their correlative conformities, 10 stratigraphic sequences are identified. The onset of deposition is defined by a pronounced erosional event, where late Palaeocene tectonic activity caused mass wasting of the uplifted footwall of the Danmarkshavn Ridge along ca. 200 km section of the ridge. During the mid Miocene, a second pronounced unconformity developed across the margin, which caused forced regressive submarine fans to prograde across the margin. The following tectonic quiet period is overlain by glaciomarine deposits, with evidence of ice deformation reaching the present day shelf break. Finally, unknown superregional plate tectonic forces are suggested as a driver of sequence formation based on correlation with the Canadian Arctic.