Integrative perspectives on diagenesis: Linking processes, scales, and applications in sedimentary systems

Diagenesis lies at the heart of sedimentary system evolution, shaping the physical, chemical, and mineralogical attributes of sedimentary rocks. Once regarded primarily as a post-depositional process, diagenesis is now understood as a fundamental driver that connects depositional processes, provenance, fluid–rock interaction, and basin-scale dynamics. Current research emphasizes its operation across spatial scales—from nanometer-scale mineral transformations within pores to kilometre-scale fluid flow systems—and across temporal scales that record the burial and tectonic evolution of sedimentary basins. Despite substantial progress, significant gaps persist in integrating diagenetic processes into broader sedimentary, structural, and geochemical frameworks. Recent advances in petrographic imaging, isotope geochronology, and data-driven modelling have provided new insights into these linkages, yet a unified, quantitative understanding of diagenesis across scales remains elusive. Addressing these gaps is essential for refining predictive models of reservoir quality, fluid migration, and basin evolution, with far-reaching implications for energy, environmental, and cultural heritage applications.



This Research Topic aims to advance a holistic and process-based understanding of diagenesis within sedimentary and stratigraphic frameworks. It seeks to foster interdisciplinary collaboration by bridging sedimentology, geochemistry, structural geology, and basin analysis to elucidate how diagenetic processes govern porosity, permeability, and mineral reactivity over geological timescales. The central objectives include refining models that couple diagenetic evolution with depositional setting, burial history, provenance, and tectonic activity; identifying quantitative parameters that link diagenetic alteration to fluid flow and rock stability; and applying these insights to predictive tools for resource management, energy transition, and environmental sustainability. By integrating traditional geological observations with experimental, analytical, and computational approaches, this Research Topic strives to build a comprehensive understanding of diagenetic processes as a unifying concept in sedimentary geology.



The Research Topic encompasses contributions that integrate diagenetic processes across spatial and temporal scales in both natural and engineered systems. Studies focusing on innovative analytical methodologies, modelling frameworks, and interdisciplinary applications are particularly encouraged.

To gather further insights into this field’s complexity and breadth, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:



• Relationships between diagenesis, sedimentary frameworks, facies, and provenance

• Influence of climate and paleoenvironmental factors on diagenetic alteration and proxy interpretation

• Application of geochronology to constrain timing, rates, and controls of diagenetic processes

• Interactions between diagenesis, tectonic activity, and basin-scale fluid flow

• Coupling of diagenetic and hydrogeological processes within subsurface systems

• Integration of diagenetic studies with seismic, petrophysical, and geophysical characterization of reservoirs

• Role of diagenesis in geothermal energy, hydrogen storage, and CO₂ sequestration

• Environmental and applied dimensions of diagenesis, including contamination, remediation, and groundwater quality

• Mineralization processes and diagenetic controls on ore deposit formation

• Implications of diagenetic alteration in archaeological materials and cultural heritage preservation

• Use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and reactive transport modelling to quantify diagenetic evolution



Appendix: We invite contributions in the form of Original Research, Review, Methods, Data Reports, and Perspectives that advance the understanding of diagenesis and its applications across sedimentary systems.