Micro-karstification in a stalactite from Küpeli Cave, southern Turkey

Abstract

This study investigates the dissolution characteristics of a stalactite from Küpeli Cave in southern Turkey, employing a holistic approach that includes macroscopic and microscopic analyses alongside advanced techniques such as X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. The studied stalactite exhibits distinct morphological features: an upper main body with visible growth layers and dissolution channels, and a lower pendant made of solid sparite calcite crystals. The outer surface of the main body exhibits partial dissolution corrosion and protrusion-like structures resulting from channel infilling resisting corrosion. Notably, the pendant section of the stalactite remains largely unaffected by the dissolution, preserving its original structure. The longitudinal cross-section of the main body reveals dissolution channels along the growth layer's surface, partially filled with calcite cement. Secondary channels branch off the main channels, some connected to the outer surface at certain points, allowing cave water to enter. The dissolution processes also lead to microscale changes in the primary microfabrics, including the widening of intercrystalline pores, microperforated zones, microchannels, rhombohedral microcrystalline blocks, spiky calcite, pits, and abiotic micritization. The recurring dissolution features inside the stalactite indicate synchronous dissolution during stalactite formation, where the precipitation/dissolution conditions repeat cyclically. Dissolution typically occurs during the rainy season when cave water is unsaturated with calcite, otherwise, calcite precipitates, forming overgrowth layers and/or cement.