Abstract: Physical diagenesis: a neglected aspect in the reconstruction of ancient sedimentary environments

As used here physical diagenesis embraces all post-depositional pre-metamorphic changes resulting from dewatering, compaction and sub-surface remobilization of sediments. Conditions governing physical diagenesis include high initial porosity, excessive pore-fluid pressures, rapid sediment accumulation, density inversion and differential viscosities. The principal pro·cesses involved are ·fluidization, liquiractiori and elutriation.