Coastal morphological formations are studied to assess the impact of natural processes such as sediment transport, tectonic activity, as well as coastal and climate changes. Understanding coastal changes is crucial for coastal planning and management, for reconstructing of ancient landscapes and developing archaeological interpretations.
Beachrock is a sedimentary rock composed of coastal materials that have been cemented with calcium carbonate in the intertidal zone. Once consolidated, beachrock can remain resistant to further erosion even after the removal of the overlying surface layer. Beachrock outcrops, typically found parallel to the coastline, are common along the Mediterranean shores of Israel. They exhibit a range of morphological features and can serve as valuable indicators for paleogeographic and morphodynamic assessments of coastal changes.
This study focuses on outcrops that have formed since the Mediterranean reached its current level approximately 4,000 years ago. The clastic composition and mineralogy of the cement were analyzed using microscopy, chemical techniques, portable optical luminescence (POSL) measurements, and OSL dating. These analyses demonstrate different morphological processes along the coast. Additionally, the study explores the use of beachrock as a raw material in ancient times, aiming to better understand the economic interactions between coastal populations and their environment.