Quaternary fluvial evolution of the Eastern Cantabrian valleys (North of Spain): Using DEM LiDAR as a tool for geomorphological analysis, geochronological characterization and identification of the control factors

• Autores: Miren del Val Blanco
• Directores de la Tesis: Eneko Iriarte Avilés (codir. tes.), Arantza Aranburu Artano (codir. tes.)
• Lectura: En la Universidad del País Vasco - Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea ( España ) en 2025
• Idioma: inglés
• Número de páginas: 175
• Programa de doctorado: Programa Oficial de Doctorado en Geología
• Materias:
  • Ciencias de la tierra y del espacio
    • Geología
      • Otras especialidades de geología
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• Resumen

  • This thesis investigates the Quaternary evolution of fluvial systems in the eastern Cantabrian margin (north of Spain), integrating advanced geospatial analysis with trapped-charge dating techniques. LiDAR-derived Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were employed to identify, characterize, and map fluvial features, leading to the delineation of Potential Terrace Areas (PTAs). Complementary, a geochronological framework was established through Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) and Electron Spin Resonance (ESR) dating of fluvial terrace sequences. Despite recurring challenges, including poor terrace preservation due to slope processes, vegetation, and urbanization, as well as problematic luminescence and ESR signal properties¿the study defines a consistent stratigraphic architecture across the region. Nine recurrent terrace levels (T1¿T9, from +120 m to +5 m) were recognized, with preliminary ages indicating that the lower terraces (+10 m to +25 m) formed during the Middle Pleistocene (~140¿400 ka). These findings demonstrate a coherent regional pattern of fluvial development, highlighting the role of climate fluctuations and tectonic activity in shaping the Quaternary landscape of the eastern Cantabrian valleys