Interpretation of Micromorphological Features of Soils and Regoliths

Interpretation of Micromorphological Features of Soils and Regolith, 2nd edition, provides researchers and students with a global tool for interpretation of micromorphological features of regoliths and soils. After an introduction and general overview by the editors, micromorphological aspects of regoliths (e.g. saprolites, unconsolidated sediments, transported materials) are highlighted, followed by a systematic and coherent discussion of the micromorphological expression of various pedogenic processes. This is done by discussing diagnostic horizons, materials and processes. The following topics are also treated: freeze-thaw features, redoximorphic features, calcareous and gypsiferous formations, textural features, spodic and oxic horizons, andic and volcanic materials, organic and surface horizons, laterites, surface crusts, salts, biogenic and inorganic siliceous materials, authigenic silicates, phosphates, thionic and derived materials, and features related to faunal activity. The last chapters address the impact of anthropic activities, with regard to archaeology and palaeopedology.

Interpretation of Micromorphological Features of Soils and Regolith, 2nd edition, is written by a team of well-known, global experts in the field who all used a single set of concepts and terminology, making it a valuable interdisciplinary reference.

• The first exhaustive publication on interpretation of micromorphological features
• Covers related topics, making micromorphology more attractive and accessible for geographers, archaeologists and quaternary geologists
• Thematic treatment of a range of soil micromorphology fields broadens the content’s applications
• Authored by a multi-disciplinary team, ensuring thorough coverage of archaeological, geological, and earth science disciplines

Georges Stoops contributed substantially to the understanding of the genesis of arid and tropical soils, and to the development of concepts and terminology for the description of soil thin sections. His outstanding research activities in an international context, contributed considerably to the development of soil micromorphology, while his enthusiastic teaching in Ghent and elsewhere promoted the use of soil micromorphology worldwide. His achievements have been honoured for instance by the Kubiëna Medal of the International Soil Science Society (1992) and the Philippe Duchaufour Medal of the European Geosciences Union (2010)..

Dr. Marcelino has many years of research experience in soil micromorphology, especially in the field of tropical soil development, and was guest lecturer at several Intensive Training Courses on Micromorphology organised in various European countries.

Dr. Mees has many years of research experience in sediment petrology, soil mineralogy and micromorphology, applied to sediments and soils in arid and semi-arid environments, and later mainly in humid tropical environments, especially in Central Africa.