Goethite (U–Th)/He geochronology and precipitation mechanisms during weathering of basalts

Abstract

(U–Th)/He geochronology of 33 goethite grains from in situ ferruginous duricrusts overlying the Paraná flood basalt in the Guarapuava region, Paraná, Brazil, reveals ages ranging from 3.6±0.4 to 0.4±0.1Ma. Thirty-one grains from detrital fragments of ferruginous duricrust yield ages in the 6.2±0.6 to 0.7±0.1Ma range. The results show that goethites from detrital blocks are generally older than those from the in situ ferruginous layers and that all the goethites from the Guarapuava sites are relatively young (≤6.2±0.6Ma). Goethites show variable U and Th contents depending on the mode of precipitation. Goethite that forms by progressive ferrugization and pseudomorphic replacement of basalts are rich in Th, U-poor, contain various mineral inclusions (e.g., kaolinite, rutile, ilmenite) and display a distinct “checkered” appearance. Colloform goethite precipitated within cavities and desiccation cracks contain higher U, show low Th/U values, and are free of mineral contaminants, suggesting direct precipitation from solution. The geochronological results reveal a dynamic evolution for the soils overlying the Paraná basalt, where recurrent duricrust formation and dismantling lead to the evolution of regional colluvial soil profiles while simultaneously preventing the evolution of chemically stratified lateritic weathering profiles. The modes of formation and U, Th, and He contents of goethite at Guarapuava provide useful constraints on the expected compositions and modes of formation of goethite formed on basaltic soils on Mars.