Chemical mass balance in a reaction zone between serpentinite and metapelites in the Nishisonogi metamorphic rocks, Kyushu, Japan: Implications for devolatilization

Abstract

Abstract Reaction zones of 0.5–10.0 m thick are commonly observed between serpentinite and pelitic schist in the Nishisonogi metamorphic rocks, Kyushu, Japan. Each reaction zone consists of almost monomineralic or bimineralic layers of talc + carbonates, actinolite (or carbonates + quartz), chlorite, muscovite and albite from serpentinite to pelitic schist. Magnesite + quartz veins extend into the serpentinite from the talc + carbonates layer, while dolomite veins extend into the pelitic schist from the muscovite layer. These veins are filled by subhedral minerals with oriented growth features. Primary fluid inclusions yield the same homogenization temperatures (145–150°C) both in the reaction zone and in the veins, suggesting their simultaneous formation. Mass‐balance calculations using the isocon method indicate that SiO2, MgO, H2O and K2O are depleted in the reaction zone relative to the protoliths. These components were probably extracted from the reaction zone as fluids during the formation of the reaction zone.