Sediment constituent analysis; application of a new 'toolbox' for the study of Iranian coastlines

Sediment constituent analysis (SCA) is the method of assessing sediment samples under a microscope to determine the origin of constituent particles by visual inspection, and in some cases by the aid of stains. The analysis is usually performed using two basic techniques: a) by examination and identification of the origin of whole grains through a microscopic, as reported by Thorp (1936), and Perry (2000) and b) by embedding sediments for thin section preparation and microscopic examination of thin sections as reported by Illing (1954), and Lidz and Hallock(2000). Both methods use basic counting techniques through a microscope. Selection of the technique depends on resources and goals. Thin sectioning requires much more sample preparation, however most grains can be identified in details, while the first method is simpler. This type of sediment analysis is a new subject for the Iranian Coastal Engineering community, particularly as it relates to carbonate sands. Application of this method was taught to a number of Iranian experts during the second phase of Monitoring and Modeling Studies of Iranian Coastlines by training on techniques for constituent analysis for sediment samples taken particularly from Naiband Beach. This paper introduces a few case studies done in different parts of Iranian Coastlines by using this method as a general assessment toolbox