Chemostratigraphic correlation of Devonian-Carboniferous sedimentary sequences at Roboré SUB-BASIN, Bolivia

A chemostratigraphic analysis was performed on cutting samples from Devonian-Carboniferous intervals belonging to three wells located in the Roboré sub-Basin, east of Chaco Plain, southeast Bolivia. Using multivariate statistical analysis (Factor Analysis), we have established two main geochemical associations serving as control for the chemistry of the analyzed samples: detrital (clay and heavy minerals) and redox-organic matter association. In addition, different geochemical zones (chemozones or chemofacies) were established by the application of a hierarchical statistical analysis (constrained cluster analysis), both for the detrital and redox-organic matter associations. Furthermore, total correspondence of the established chemozones was observed and better definition of the predefined stratigraphic contacts was obtained after a chemostratigraphic correlation scheme was applied. Taking together our chemostratigraphic data, we have identified an interval that represents a possible marker of Lower Carboniferous glacial event in the Roboré sub-Basin. We have evaluated the general characteristics of the sources of sediment provenance along the studied sequences. In conclusion, we proposed a large active continental margin accretionary complex tectonic setting for Los Monos (Late Devonian) and Tupambi (Mississippian) formations in the Roboré sub-Basin (Chaco Plain). •A regional chemostratigraphic correlation is established in Devonian-Carboniferous sequences at the Robore sub-Basin, Chaco Plain.•Changes in the paleo-climatic conditions are detected, recording a possible Carboniferous Glacial Event.•Tectonic setting for the Los Monos and Tupambi formations are associated with an Active Collision Margin system.