Mineralogical and geochemical studies of hardened subsurface layers in soils of the Azufres and Atecuaro volcanic calderas, southwestern Mexico

Abstract

Free silica and halloysite-bearing hardened subsurface layers in the ash fall deposits of the Azufres and Atecuaro volcanic calderas (Michoacan State, southwestern Mexico), known as “tepetates”, have been characterized by chemical analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman and Infrared spectrometry, optical (OM) and scanning (SEM) microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDXRA). Chemical analysis of these weathered and hardened formations shows the oxidation of Fe2+, enrichment of Al, Fe3+ and Ti, loss of Si, Na, Ca, K, Mg, and formation of minerals with hydroxyls groups. Tepetates are characterized by elevated SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios (4.86–8.82) that show part of the SiO2 has crystallized in free siliceous phases. X-ray analysis reveals hydrated (1.0 nm) and dehydrated halloysite (0.7 nm), sanidine, plagioclases, cristobalite, and tridymite. Raman and infrared spectra confirm the presence of these mineral phases and show that the structural transformations occur in opal neoformations. SEM shows a compact matrix with a skeleton of different phenocrysts (aluminosilicates, ferromagnesian minerals and various crystalline silica phases) and the presence of non-crystalline silica (volcanic glass and opal with different degrees of crystallinity). The tepetates form by interaction of two processes: volcanic ash fall then subsequent weathering under variable climatic conditions. These indurated horizons are partly or totally cemented by the diagenetic secondary minerals: non-crystalline silica with variable crystal chemical characteristics and clay minerals. Key words: Ash fall, tepetates, volcanic soil, mineralogy, geochemistry