Surface textural analysis of quartz grains from varved sediments of Lake Kusai in the Hoh Xil area, Tibetan Plateau

Researchers have confirmed that coarse-grained layers in the varved sediments of Lake Kusai, located in Qinghai Hoh Xil on the Tibetan Plateau, are primarily formed by aeolian (wind-driven) processes. This discovery was made through a detailed surface textural analysis of quartz grains using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The study compared quartz grain microtextures from Lake Kusai's sediments with those from typical aeolian dune deposits, fluvial sediments, and lacustrine deposits in the region. Key indicators such as rounded outlines, low to medium relief, acuate steps, crescent percussion marks, upturned plates, bulbous edges, and dish-shaped depressions were identified in Lake Kusai's coarse-grained layers, aligning closely with aeolian sediment characteristics rather than fluvial ones. This finding provides critical insights into the sedimentary history and depositional environment of this remote, frequently dust-storm-affected region on the northern Tibetan Plateau.

Yu, C., & Xingqi, L. (2016). Surface textural analysis of quartz grains from varved sediments of Lake Kusai in the Hoh Xil area, Tibetan Plateau. Journal of Lake Sciences, 28(5), 1123–1133. https://doi.org/10.18307/2016.0523