Authors
1
M. Sc (graduated), Dept., of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
2
Assist. Prof., Dept., of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
3
Assoc. Prof., Dept., of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
Abstract
The mud volcanoes of Sivan region are unique phenomena that are closely related to the folded and fine-grained sedimentary units of the Miocene. These mud volcanoes are in the form of eroded and inactive or semi-active cones, as well as mud ponds in the region. The results of the analysis of the sediment samples, in terms of texture, place them in the mudstone and clayey silt groups, in the Folk and Shepard classifications, respectively. Quartz, feldspars, mica, various heavy minerals, clay minerals (Illite and chlorite) and rock fragments (metamorphic, carbonate and volcanic) are the components of these sediments. Mineralogical evidence indicates the origin of sediments from metamorphic and possibly volcanic rocks of the region. The amount of calcium carbonate in the mud samples varies between 19 and 45%, and accordingly, the sediments of the mud volcanoes are calcareous mud, argillaceous marl, and marl. The formation of Sivan mud volcanoes can be related to some factors such as the presence of fine-grained sediments of Miocene, the thickness of sediments, and the influence of overburden pressures and regional tectonics. Also, the presence of a hidden salt dome according to the geological map as well as surface features can be effective factor in the formation and activity of the mud volcanoes in this area. In terms of the composition of sediment, water and formation mechanism, these mud volcanoes are comparable to mud volcanoes on the margins of the Caspian basin, which can be related to their sedimentation-tectonic conditions.
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