Geology of Saline Deposits, Edited by G. Richter-Bernburg 
1972

This volume is part of UNESCO’s Earth Sciences series and presents a comprehensive, international overview of the geology, formation, and distribution of saline (evaporite) deposits. It compiles contributions from multiple experts, reflecting global research on salt-bearing formations.

The book focuses on evaporites, which are sedimentary deposits formed through the evaporation of saline waters. It begins by explaining the geochemical and environmental conditions required for their formation, including arid climates, restricted basins, and high evaporation rates.

Key topics include:

Types of saline deposits: halite (rock salt), gypsum, anhydrite, potash salts, and other evaporitic minerals
Depositional environments: marine basins, inland lakes, and coastal sabkhas
Stratigraphy and sedimentology: layering, cyclic deposition, and basin evolution
Diagenesis and post-depositional changes: recrystallization, deformation, and dissolution processes

The volume also examines the structural geology of salt formations, including salt domes and diapirs, and their role in shaping geological structures. These features are particularly important in petroleum geology, as they often form traps for hydrocarbons.

In addition, the book addresses economic aspects, such as:

Mining and extraction of salt and associated minerals
Industrial uses of evaporite resources
The relationship between saline deposits and oil and gas exploration

Because it draws on international case studies, the text provides examples from various regions, offering a global perspective on evaporite geology.