Stratigraphy, facies characteristics and economical potential of the paleozoic-mesozoic limestones of the Bartin area (western pontides)

Under the investigation of economical potential of the Paleozoic-Mesozoic limestones at the Bartın area, Göktepe, Yılanlı, Alacaağzı, Arıtdere formations of Paleozoic and Ulus, Dallıca, Kapanboğazı and Yemişliçay formations of Mesozoic are determined. All of the formation names, except Dallıca Formation, are given from the studies of Tokay et al., (1952), Tüysüz et al., (1999) and Sener et al., (1980).Dallıca Formation is first determined in this study and its equivalent to the Turonian conglomerate of Tokay. Field works of Tokay around Süzek River, it was not identified by the latter who probably limited his field work along the road where indeed the Lower Visean is cropping out.Coal, is the main economic potential on the region, other potential deposits, like clay, marl, dolomite and limestone, are existing for lime, cement and brick industries.In all three industries, cement lime and aggregate producers are using limestone or dolomite deposits. The key sustainable development issue is the access to high quality limestone and dolomite deposits to secure geological reserves for a 30-60 years operation.Selective mining is the most important mile stone for economical production. Industry always needs constant quality for efficient production and customer satisfaction.Mining operation needs restricted areas that are well protected for safety and to prevent any environmental inconvenience.The resource carbonate potential of the limestones and dolomites at the region is approximately 2.5 and 1 billion tonnes. However potential mineable site is not more than one-tenth. After creating quality maps and getting permissions for mining, each quarry works with a potential of 10 million to 100 million tonnes of reserves estimation in their licensed areas.