Sedimentary Evolution of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau in Cenozoic and its Response to the Uplift of the Plateau

Research identifies five major uplift events in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau during the Cenozoic, revealing a shift from eastward to westward high elevations by the late Miocene. The study analyzed 98 remnant basins across the plateau, documenting sedimentary and tectonic changes from the Paleocene to Pliocene. Key findings include widespread regional unconformity around 23 million years ago, indicating peak uplift followed by collapse, and the expansion of lacustrine deposition peaking between 18–13 million years ago. The research highlights how continuous uplift and taphrogeny fragmented basins, reducing lacustrine deposits and increasing boulderstone accumulation, marking a response to the plateau's overall elevation changes.

Kexin, Z., Guocan, W., Yadong, X., Mansheng, L., Junliang, J., Guoqiao, X., An, W., Bowen, S., Yinpin, L., Shangsong, J., Kai, C., Fenning, C., Ruiming, C., & Yongfeng, Y. (2013). Sedimentary Evolution of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau in Cenozoic and its Response to the Uplift of the Plateau. Acta Geologica Sinica - English Edition, 87(2), 555–575. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/1755-6724.12068