Genetic high-resolution stratigraphy of the Upper Maastrichtian - Danian chalk, Danish Central Graben: a multidisciplinary palaeoecological, isotopic, cyclostratigraphic approach

The goal of the project is to increase stratigraphic resolution and stratigraphic/sedimentological understanding of the succession by means of a multidisciplinary study combining qualitative/quantitative biostratigraphy, palynofacies, sedimentology, stable isotope analysis and cyclostratigraphy. The primary aims are thus two-fold: (1) To identify environmental signals of regional significance that can form the basis of a high-resolution genetic stratigraphy; (2) To develop an improved understanding of the factors controlling pelagic carbonate production and chalk sedimentation. Detailed integration with petrophysical data will ensure the practical application of the results in production and exploration activities. The project will be subdivided into three phases: Phase 1. Selection, broad correlation, sampling and sedimentological logging of cores from the Danish Central Graben and outcrops/cores in the Danish Basin. Phase 2. Palaeoecological and geochemical analysis, together with cyclostratigraphical analysis of petrophysical log data and spectral analysis of the palaeoecological and isotope data. Phase 3. Detailed integration and interpretation of the palaeoecological, isotopic, sedimentological and cyclostratigraphic data in order to identify climatic, oceanographic and sea-level signals and thus establish a regional, genetic high-resolution stratigraphy