Loess spectroscopy and its use as a proxy for past climate change
| Executive Summary | |
|---|---|
| Researchers | Dr M. J. Smith (Principal Investigator (PI on NERC FSF application)): CEESR Dr T. Stevens (Co-investigator (CI on NERC ARSF application)): CEESR |
| Funding Body/Source | NERC |
| Duration | July 2008-ongoing |
| Project Summary | This research will analyse various loess profiles to: a) compare reflectance spectra to traditionally used proxies and b) calibrate camera equipment that could be readily and rapidly deployed in the field to image loess profiles. |
This pilot project will test the use of imaging equipment to measure various reflectance spectra of exposures of Quaternary/Neogene age Chinese loess. Chinese loess contains one of the most detailed sedimentary records of the past monsoon system, yet question marks remain over how much of the variation in loess sedimentary and pedogenic facies can be ascribed to the monsoon, and how much reflects local processes. This uncertainty severely limits the accuracy of monsoon reconstructions. To differentiate between the two, it is necessary to conduct a coordinated study of large numbers of loess sections. However, traditionally used methods of loess climate proxy analysis are too time consuming to allow such a study. By contrast, imaging of reflectance spectra may provide a rapid method to determine local variations in loess properties and hence calibrate (and extract) the monsoonal signal. The pilot project will test the applicability of this technique.
Fieldwork commences in July 2008 when imaging equipment on loan from the NERC Field Spectroscopy Facility will be used to measure EMR reflectance at wavelengths from 500-1000nm for a variety of loess profiles. These results will provide a high spectral resolution that can be directly compared to traditional climate proxy analyses (e.g. magnetic susceptibility). In tandem a prosumer digital camera will be used to measure profile reflectance at four wavelengths. These results will provide low spectral resolution, but will benefit from rapid deployment, at high spatial resolutions, providing areal measurements. This research will be used to a) analyse the relationship of reflectance spectra to traditionally used proxies and b) calibrate the camera equipment.
Publications
Nothing before 2009
Further Information
Unpublished doctoral thesis: Stevens, T. 2006. Late Quaternary climate recorded in Chinese loess: OSL analysis of record continuity and preservation. Jesus College, University of Oxford, Centre for the Environmen, Unpublished D.Phil thesis.
