Mechanism of Salt Migration in Northern Germany

ABSTRACT The object of this paper is to describe and explain the formation of salt stock structures in Northern Germany and to contribute in this way to a better understanding of similar phenomena in other parts of the world. The majority of the structures in the North German basin can be directly or indirectly attributed to “halokinesis.” This term, proposed by the writer (1957), designates the formation of salt structures, and their structural and stratigraphic implications, which are essentially the result of the autonomous movements of salt under the influence of gravity. Phase-bound tectonic forces play only a minor part. The Permian salt structures of Northern Germany are classified into salt pillows, salt stocks, salt walls, and extrusions along fissures. They are accompanied by primary, secondary, and third-order peripheral sinks. The halokinetic movements have taken place in an essentially continuous and autonomous fashion from the Triassic to the present day. Reckoned throughout long periods of geological time, the absolute rate of flow of the salt averages 0.3 mm. per year.