ABSTRACT

The sequential application of a number of techniques permits the determination of bedding attitudes in apparently massive carbonate cores. The initial step is the preparation of a sanded strip along the full length of the core. When this surface is wet with water or mineral oil, it effectively simulates a polished section and may in itself reveal dip. The surface also provides a base for etching and/or the application of various stains. If examination under white or ultraviolet light with binocular microscope does not show bedding attitude, it is advisable to saw a pair of oriented slices at least 0.379 cm in size and photograph them using a standard medical X-ray machine. Failure t obtain the desired results requires a more lengthy process of making etched transparencies with the slices. If the first transparency is unsuccessful, a thin section should be made with the remaining slice. If this technique yields positive results, another complimentary slice is cut and true dip will be determined. This schedule of core examination is generally satisfactory, but should not be followed dogmatically in all situations. Isotope adsorption, infrared photography, electrolytic staining, and the use of a linear densitometer may aid in determining bedding attitude but they were not attempted in this study.