P-T-X-controlled element transport through granulite-facies ternary feldspar from Lofoten, Norway

Abstract

Fluid transport on the grain-scale controls many rock properties and governs chemical exchange. Charnockites from Lofoten indicate fluid penetration into ternary alkali feldspars controlled by their microtextures. In a process of fluid infiltration at granulite-facies conditions (∼600°C and 8–11 kbar), tiny pyroxenes enclosed in alkali feldspar reacted to amphiboles, which are always spatially connected to perthitic albite. Investigation of these microtextures by TEM imaging of Focused Ion Beam (FIB) prepared foils revealed that pyroxenes in contact with albite lamellae show dissolution features. An amorphous Fe- and Cl-bearing material interpreted to be a residuum of the percolating fluid was found within albite lamellae. Textures and mineral compositions indicate that a Cl-rich aqueous fluid attacked the lamellae, which then provided pathways for further fluid flow. A correspondence was found between feldspar compositions, their microtexture and their degree of alteration as a result of their permeability for fluids at specific temperatures. Hence, in addition to pressure and temperature, small variations of feldspar composition can strongly influence the fluid permeability of feldspathic rocks under lower crustal conditions.