Microfacies analysis and depositional environments of the Middle Eocene (Bartonian) Qurn Formation along Qattamiya—Ain Sokhna district, Egypt

Abstract The exposed Middle Eocene (Bartonian) Qurn Formation along Qattamiya—Ain Sokhna district is measured, sampled and microscopically investigated. Besides, the vertical distribution of chemical oxides strontium (Sr) has been determined to identify their petrographic, geochemical characteristics interpret depositional environments. facies analysis (lithofacies, microfacies, biofacies) studied rocks revealed recognition three microfacies associations: (1) restricted lagoon association (FT1–FT3), (2) open (FT4–FT7), (3) shoal (FT8–FT9). Lithofacies reflect carbonate inner ramp regime ranging from buildup conditions. These identified are changed eastward mid-ramp, while they represented westward by tidal flat shallow lagoonal facies. both CaO MgO that related mainly dolomitization process rather than primary deposition. Sr in samples matches with SiO 2, thus may be warm environmental