Contrasts between platinum group element contents and biotite compositions of Duluth Complex troctolitic and anorthositic series rocks

Abstract

This paper presents new data on sulfide assemblages, platinum group elements (PGE's) and halogen contents of biotites in anorthositic series rocks from the Duluth Complex. The data are contrasted with similar data from troctolitic series rocks. Sulfides occur in only trace amounts in anorthositic series rocks as interstitial grains, inclusions in plagioclase, and veinlets cutting olivine. These textures and the sulfide assemblage (pyrrhotite, pentlandite and chalcopyrite) are similar to the sulfide mineralization in troctolitic series rocks. However, the sulfide assemblage is dominated by chalcopyrite in anorthositic rocks. The highest concentration of PGE's in anorthositic series rocks found to date is 163 ppb Pt, with the bulk of the data at limits of detection. PGE contents of troctolitic series rocks range from 100=200 ppb Pt + Pd to an anomalously high 14 ppm Pt + Pd over a one meter interval. The variation of F/Cl ratios with Fe-Mg compositions of Duluth Complex magmatic biotites may be interpreted to imply equilibration with a fluid phase of constant composition. We have no definitive interpretation of the significance of the distinctly different biotite compositions reported from the Stillwater and Bushveld Complexes.