Interaction of tectonic, sedimentary, and diapiric processes in the origin of chaotic sediments: an example from the Messinian of Torino Hill (Tertiary Piedmont Basin, northwestern Italy).

Geologic mapping and integrated strati- graphic and structural observations of a gyp- sum quarry from northwestern Italy allow evaluation of the relative contributions, the time relationships, and the causative links between tectonic, sedimentary, and diapiric processes in the genesis of chaotic sediments of Messinian age. Three chaotic units are exposed in the quarry: together, they make up a composite chaotic unit that is unconform- ably overlain by post-chaotic sediments. Unit 1 is composed of blocks of primary evaporites that are juxtaposed to marine marls by sub- vertical transpressive faults and are parallel to the fault surfaces. Unit 2 unconformably overlies Unit 1, and consists of a lenticular sedimentary body containing both angular and rounded blocks, randomly distributed in a fi ne-grained matrix. Unit 3 consists of a 10-m-wide body bounded by transpres- sive faults, and pierces both Units 1 and 2. It is composed of strongly deformed muddy deposits that envelop blocks of gypsum and carbonate rocks. Between the core and the margins, various zones have been defi ned based on the increasing amount of deforma- tion toward the margins. The post-chaotic sediments unconformably overlie both Units 1 and 2, sealing the main fault systems. The composite chaotic unit is related to thrust propagation during a regional phase of deformation, and is the result of different evolutionary stages, in each of which a sin- gle genetic mechanism prevailed. Tectonic faulting prevailed during stage 1 and was responsible for the formation of a tectonically disrupted assemblage (Unit 1). During stage 2, gravity-driven sedimentary phenomena, related to slope oversteepening triggered by ongoing thrust propagation, resulted in the deposition of Unit 2. Gravity sliding was favored by the mechanical weakening of sediments caused by tectonic faulting. Over- pressure conditions resulting from the rapid deposition of Unit 2 triggered the rise of a diapir (Unit 3) that pierced Units 1 and 2. The involvement of methane-rich fl uids in the formation of the diapir is suggested by the occurrence of blocks of methane-derived carbonates, found not in the quarry, but just outside it.