Formation and structure of hypergenesis zone in the above-salt layer of the Verkhnekamskoe potassium salt deposit, Perm Krai, Russia

Abstract

The paper describes the formation conditions and factors, as well as the structure and properties of rocks at the unique geological object within the Verknekamskoe potassium salt deposit, i.e., more than 90-m-thick zone of hypergenesis in the above-salt massif of interbedding terrigenous, terrigenous-carbonate and halogen deposits of lower Permian age, which covers the salt horizon of 300-700 m thickness. The geological history of the area is described in brief, which controls its geological and geomorphological structural features. The natural conditions and rock-transforming factors operating for millions of years are discussed. The composition, state and properties of rock in the hypergenesis zone are characterized, including their changes with the depth. This is important for the assessment and prediction of karst development in the considered area, as well as surface deformations and collapses.