Extensional Regime Research Articles

When did the large-scale extensional tectonics begin in North China Craton?

In response to the craton destruction, the North China Craton (NCC) underwent the Early Cretaceous extensional tectonics. During this period, the eastern NCC has also experienced numerous plutonism, volcanism, and extensional structures. Particularly, half-graben or graben, Early Cretaceous extensional domes, metamorphic core complex, and syn-kinematic plutons are widespread throughout the NCC and its surrounding area, with a peaking age of 125 Ma, pointing to a large-scale severe NW-SE extension. However, it remains unknown when and how the large-scale extension is initiated. To answer this key issue, we choose two plutons (Fengjiayu-Xibailianyu and Gubeikou plutons) with the age of early stage of the Early Cretaceous (130–127 Ma) as the target of this study. The Fengjiayu-Xibailianyu pluton is close to, while the Gubeikou pluton is far away from the Early Cretaceous intensive extensional region. A multidisciplinary study, including structural geology, anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS), and gravity modeling, has been carried out on these two plutons to reveal the tectonic regime coeval with their emplacement. Both of these two plutons share similar features of concentric magnetic foliations and variable magnetic lineations which are decoupled with the ductile fabric in their country rocks. Accordingly, we considered that they intruded in a permissive way at a weak extension regime during the Early Cretaceous (130–127 Ma), just before the Late Mesozoic peak of the magma flare-up and large-scale extensional tectonics of the NCC. Combined with our previous works, the Early Cretaceous NW-SE trending extension in NCC was further subdivided into the early-stage weak extension during 130–127 Ma and the late-stage intensive extension during 127–110 Ma, namely the large-scale extension initiated after 127 Ma. The early-stage extension could be ascribed to the westward subduction of the Izanagi plate under the Eurasian continent.

Cambrian mafic magmatism in the Kékem area, NW edge of the Adamawa-Yadé domain, Central African Fold Belt: Implications for Western Gondwana dynamics

The tectonic evolution of the Central African Fold Belt (CAFB) has been intensely studied, but the timing of the end of the Pan-African orogenic cycle is poorly constrained, leading to contrasting tectonic models. In order to address the nature of magmatic products associated with and the timing of the end Pan-African orogenic cycle, we use mineral chemistry, whole-rock geochemistry and Sr − Nd isotopes, and zircon trace element and U − Pb geochronology of northern and southern gabbro that cut the post-collisional Central Cameroon Shear Zone; results are discussed in the tectonic framework of the CAFB. Clinopyroxene and whole-rock chemistry show that the northern and southern gabbros are mainly subalkaline, with a tholeiitic/transitional affinity. Northern and southern gabbros have REE and trace element patterns, characterized by enrichment in LREE, and depletion in HREE, Th, U, Nb, Ta, and Pb. Their Sr − Nd isotope data show low (87Sr/86Sr)i of 0.703793–0.704608 and slightly negative ɛNd(t) values ranging from −3.20 to −0.66 with Paleoproterozoic Nd model ages of 2149–1612 Ma. Moreover, the northern and southern gabbros yield U − Pb zircon ages of 486 ± 15 Ma and 497 ± 13 Ma, respectively. Our combined data is consistent with the northern and southern gabbroic magma having originated at (or near) a deep, probably asthenospheric mantle source and may have interacted with Paleoproterozoic subduction metasomatized lithospheric mantle during ascent as a result of lithospheric extension associated with lithospheric scale shearing along the shear zone. In concert with previous studies, we suggest that the evolution of the CAFB was characterized by subduction and eventual collision at 660–600 Ma followed by a 600–570 Ma post-collisional stage and final extension from 560 − 486 Ma. The extensional regime was associated with mafic to felsic magmatism with geochemical signatures evolving towards a tholeiitic/transitional or alkaline affinity. Correlation of the CAFB with the Borborema Province of the Brasiliano fold belt suggests that both shared a similar tectonic evolution and orogenic cycle characterized by early crustal thickening followed by transcurrent tectonics and ultimate lithospheric extension.

Petrogenesis of mafic-intermediate magmatism of the Michoacán–Guanajuato volcanic field in Western Mexico. A geochemical review

The Michoacán–Guanajuato volcanic field (MGVF) in the western Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt is one of the largest and most diverse monogenetic volcanic fields in the world holding more than 1200 volcanic vents. Its eruptive activity goes back to 7 Ma, it is considered an active volcanic field, and the composition of its rocks varies from mafic to silicic. It is essential to understand the geochemical evolution of its products, the complex petrogenetic processes, and the origin of magmas in central Mexico. Although these processes are linked to the subduction of the Cocos plate beneath the North American plate, the magmatic plumbing system of the MGVF remains not completely understood. The MGVF has been studied for decades, focusing in its dominant intermediate magmas. Nevertheless, the origin and evolution of the mafic components and their relation with the intermediate rocks have been poorly discussed. Here, we compile geological and geochemical data of the MGVF to discuss the petrogenesis of mafic magmas along the volcanic field and the role they play in the generation of intermediate melts. We used data published for 429 samples of mafic and intermediate volcanic rocks. Conventional procedures and statistical techniques were used to process the dataset. We propose that MGVF mafic magmas are derived from low degrees (∼1–15%) of partial melting of a spinel-bearing lherzolite source/mantle related to the rapid ascent of the asthenosphere caused by an extensional regime that is present in the area. In contrast, intermediate magmas where divided into two main groups based on the Mg content: high-Mg intermediate rocks, which seems to be derived from different rates of assimilation and fractional crystallization process, and low-Mg intermediate rocks, which can be related to fractional crystallization of mafic magmas. In addition, mafic and intermediate magmas display a chemical diversity which is related to mantle heterogeneity domains in the mantle wedge.

The Mesoproterozoic Nampula Subdomain in southern Malawi: Completing the story from Mozambique

New field mapping, lithostratigraphic, whole-rock geochemical, U–Pb zircon and radiogenic isotope data on the Nampula Subdomain of southernmost Malawi show good correlation with those published from adjacent NE and NW Mozambique. The oldest rocks, dated between ∼1180 and 1070 Ma form a complexly interlayered sequence of supracrustal layered paragneisses and migmatites (Nampula Group), intimately interlayered with intermediate-basic (Mocuba Suite) and felsic (Mamala Suite) gneisses, likely meta-volcanic and meta-plutonic in origin. The Mocuba Suite has typical calc-alkaline, I-Type granitoid, TTG compositions, with generally positive ϵNd values, NdTdm ages around 1.2 Ga and low initial 87Sr/86Sr ratios. These characteristics indicate generation in a juvenile volcanic arc setting at this time. Minor exceptions include a few samples which show limited input of Palaeoproterozoic crust. The Nampula arc is viewed as one of a number that developed in a closing oceanic basin which lay between the Archaean-Palaeoproterozoic Congo-Bangweulu-Ubendian-Tanzania cratonic blocks in the north and the Zimbabwe Craton to the SW, and which can be traced “southwards” in Gondwana to continue in the NE part of the ∼1 Ga Maud belt in East Antarctica. The Nampula arc-complex was intruded at ∼1040 by syn-to late tectonic sheets of megacrystic granite/augen gneisses of the Culicui Suite and, at ∼1000 Ma, by a number of bodies of late-to post-tectonic, massif-type anorthosite (Tengani Suite), which are unique to the Malawian segment of the Nampula Subdomain. The anorthosites are considered to have intruded at a post-tectonic stage under a late Mesoproterozoic extensional regime. The rocks underwent deformation and high grade metamorphism in both the Mesoproterozoic (Irumide) and Neoproterozoic-Cambrian (Pan-African) orogenies. P-T data suggest the latter attained peak granulite facies conditions of ∼800 °C at a maximum of 13–18 kbar, comparable with Neoproterozoic granulites in adjacent areas. The data presented here do not rule out either Irumide (∼1 Ga) juxtaposition of the Congo and Kalahari cratons (in Rodinia), or Pan-African (∼0.5 Ga) collision (Gondwana). Instead of this “either-or” situation, a recent hypothesis suggests accretion/collision occurred during both orogenies, separated by a period of drift apart, by the “strange attractor” phenomenon. Our data do not rule exclude that contention; rather, they tend to support it.

Geomorphological and Morphometric Analyses of the Catanzaro Trough (Central Calabrian Arc, Southern Italy): Seismotectonic Implications

In this work, we investigated the landscape response to the recent activity of the faults affecting the Catanzaro Trough, a seismically active structural basin that developed transversally to the Calabrian Arc (Southern Italy) during the Neogene–Quaternary. We carried out a geomorphological and morphometric study of the drainage networks and basins intercepted by the Quaternary faults that were previously mapped through remote and field analyses. The study confirms the occurrence north of the Catanzaro Trough of a WNW–ESE-oriented left-lateral strike-slip fault system (here named the South Sila Piccola Fault System), which accommodates the differential SE-ward migration of the upper crustal sectors of the Calabrian Arc, and of a south-dipping WNW–ESE-oriented oblique fault system (the Lamezia-Catanzaro Fault System), characterized by a predominant normal component of movement. The latter delimits the Catanzaro Trough and accommodates the transition from a strike-slip regime to an extensional regime in the south. Inside the Catanzaro Trough, we detected for the first time a NNE–SSW-trending, WNW-dipping fault system (here named the Caraffa Fault System). This system contributes to accommodate the extension that occurs orthogonally to the southern sector of the Calabrian Arc. The geomorphological and morphometric analysis revealed the recent activity of these fault systems. In particular, the activity of the Caraffa Fault System is evidenced by the differential uplift and tilting of discrete areas inside the basin. Given its location, geometry, and kinematics, the Caraffa Fault System could be responsible for the occurrence of large historical earthquakes.

Influence of multi-trend major fault reactivation during multiphase rifting: Beier Depression, Hailar Basin, NE China

AbstractComplex fault patterns associated with rift development in the Hailar Basin were largely influenced by the Mongolia–Okhotsk Ocean and Palaeo-Pacific tectonic regimes during the Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous periods. Based on 3D seismic data from the Beier Depression in the Hailar Basin, we characterized the reactivation history of multi-trend major faults and examined the evolution of the Beier Depression during the Early Cretaceous period. NE–SW-, NW–SE- and ENE–WSW-oriented major faults originated from strike-slip-associated structures that were pre-existing fabrics and then were reactivated and propagated upward under extensional regimes in the Late Jurassic. During the syn-rift stage (K1t–K1n), the Hailar Basin was in a NNW–SSE- to NW–SE-oriented extensional setting, and major faults of all orientations were active. There was tectonic quiescence (K1n1L) between the syn-rift stages (a rifting transition stage). The short compression stage after the syn-rift stage caused regional compressional deformation. During the post-rift stage (K1d–K1y), the extension direction rotated to an E–W orientation, and a new population of N–S-trending faults formed together with the reactivation of NE–SW- and ENE–WSW-trending major faults. Structural analysis shows that the major ENE–WSW-trending major faults were polycyclic growth faults reactivated via an upward propagation mode and that the NE–SW-trending faults were dip linkage faults reactivated via a dip linkage mode. The reactivation intensity of the NE–SW-trending major faults was stronger than that of the ENE–WSW-trending major faults. These results demonstrate the differences in the evolution of the different trending faults in the same tectonic regime, and the complexity of the final fault patterns in the Beier Depression was produced by differences in the reactivation of major faults. The originate interpretation of the multi-trend major faults in the Hailar Basin provides new insights into fault generation, and the classification of fault growth also has useful implications for future research on multiphase rifts.

Lithostratigraphy and structural framework of the Ediacaran volcano-plutonic complex of the Imiter Ag–Hg mining district (Jbel Saghro, Anti-Atlas, Morocco)

New lithostratigraphical and structural data provide a better assessment of the still controversial metallogenetic context of the world-class Ag–Hg Imiter deposit, located in the north-eastern part of the Saghro massif (Anti-Atlas, Morocco). Three Ediacaran volcano-plutonic cycles separated by two major angular unconformities are identified: (1) early plutonic bodies (Imider and Igoudrane) intruding the Middle Neoproterozoic (NP2) of the Saghro Group and overlain by, (2) the monoclinal Imiter Sequence (lower part of Late Neoproterozoic, NP3) emplaced in basinal conditions and consisting from bottom to top of (i) a lower volcano-sedimentary unit (LVSU) with conglomerates, tufaceous siltstones and sandstones, and interbedded andesites, (ii) the >500 m thick compound Imiter Ignimbrite, (iii) an upper volcano-sedimentary unit (UVSU), and (iv) upper andesites, unconformably overlain by (3) an upper silicic sequence (upper NP3) emplaced in continental conditions and made of rhyolitic lava flows and ignimbrites currently dated at ca. 550 Ma. The structural analysis shows that the Imiter sequence was deposited under a N–S extensional regime, then slightly tilted under a NE-SW extension. At the end of the lower NP3 period and prior to an emersion and erosional time lapse, the Imiter sequence was slightly deformed by a NW-SE transpressional regime under which the Taouzzakt and Bou Teglimt plutons (ca. 570 Ma) were emplaced. The upper NP3 rhyolitic volcanism was early controlled by the opening of two major N–S and NW-SE crustal fault systems and further evolved with the emplacement of N–S dykes and NW-SE extensional normal faulting in response to a NE-SW transtensive regime. Two post-Precambrian kinematic regimes have been identified from faults crosscutting the unconformable contact between the NP3 and the overlying Middle Cambrian formations. The first regime is expressed by ENE to E sinistral normal faults, the second one by an echelon NE dextral strike-slip faults. The so-called Imiter fault is a polyphase E-W trending fault complex that is a first-order control on the Ag ore location. Our data show that the main, vertical motion of this fault that lowers the northern side by 300–400 m offset might have been progressive during deposition of the Imiter Sequence, and is sealed by the erosional surface between the lower NP3 and upper NP3 periods. Our data further assign a lower NP3 age for the transpressional regime, responsible for the mineralized Ag veins according to previous microstructural studies at the mine scale. These lithostratigraphic and structural results are likely to be relevant to the Saghro massif as a whole, and thus may help assessing the metallogenic context of the numerous ore deposits found in this area, and guide further ore explorations.

Leucogranite Records Multiple Collisional Orogenies

AbstractThe geological evolution of orogens is the sum of events related to both their cycle of generation as well as features inherited from their basement units. The Himalayan Orogen provides a well‐constrained Cenozoic history of active plate convergence and orogenic processes overprinting an early Paleozoic orogen. A total of 1,627 Himalayan leucogranite zircons were depth‐profiled showing high resolution (0.6 μm) internal age structures. Zircon rim ages record a detailed and complex history of melting and deformation, postdating the North Indo‐Australie Orogen (ca. 490–460 Ma) documented by the zircon core age data. An interesting finding is the inconsistency of age groups between detrital zircons in the Himalaya and inherited cores of leucogranite zircons, re‐evaluating the argument that leucogranites are purely derived from melting of metasedimentary rocks. Variations in the thickness of zircon rims corresponds with changing Cenozoic orogenic stages with rims thicker than 4 μm indicating the extensional regime.

Fluid inclusions and C–H–O–S–Pb isotope systematics of the Senj Mo–Cu deposit, Alborz magmatic belt, northern Iran: implications for fluid evolution and regional mineralization

AbstractThe Middle Eocene Senj Mo–Cu deposit (1.3 Mt at 1.5 wt % Cu and 0.2 wt % Mo) is located in the central Alborz magmatic belt, northern Iran. Mineralization is characterized by multistage veins, which are hosted in volcanic and volcano-sedimentary strata of the Karaj Formation (c. 41–45 Ma), genetically associated with the Senj Mafic Sill (c. 40 Ma). Four generations of veins are documented based on mineral assemblages and cross-cutting relationships, sequentially: quartz–biotite–chalcopyrite (QBC veins), quartz–molybdenum (QM veins), quartz–pyrite (QP veins) and late calcite (LC veins). Three types of fluid inclusions (FIs) are present in multistage veins: liquid-rich two-phase (L-type), vapour-rich two-phase (V-type) and solid-bearing multi-phase (S-type) inclusions. FIs in the QBC and QM veins are predominantly V-type and S-type, together with minor L-type, whereas the QP and LC vein minerals only contain L-type fluid inclusions. The homogenization temperatures of FIs from QBC to LC veins vary from 320 to 425 °C, 308 to 390 °C, 214 to 288 °C and 145 to 243 °C, and their salinities range from 5.3 to 49.0, 6.2 to 39.7, 5.7 to 13.0, and 2.1 to 7.2 wt % NaCl equiv., respectively. The H–O–C isotope compositions favour a dominantly magmatic origin for the hydrothermal fluids, which were gradually diluted by meteoric waters. The S–Pb isotope data of sulphide minerals indicate that the sulphur and metals were sourced from a deep-seated magmatic reservoir. The Senj Mafic Sill and associated Mo–Cu mineralization was developed in a back-arc extension regime, which faults and crustal fracture systems served as conduits for hydrothermal fluid circulation and Mo-rich veining.

Petrogenetic evolution of Lichi volcanics from Arunachal Himalaya, Northeast India: Insights from geochemical modelling

The Lichi volcanic rocks crop out along the Main Boundary Thrust (MBT) of the Arunachal Himalaya, northeast India are comprised primarily of sub‐alkaline basalt (SiO2 ranges from 48.66 to 50.62 wt%), with minor trachy‐andesite (SiO2 ranges from 57% to 61.42 wt%). The distribution of incompatible trace elements, low concentrations of large‐ion lithophile elements, and REE behaviour suggests an enriched nature of the studied rocks and limited influence of the crustal contamination during their evolution. Linear distribution trends of major oxide, consistent patterns of trace elements, and REEs on primitive mantle‐ and chondrite‐normalized diagrams suggest the cogenetic nature of mafic basaltic rocks and intermediate trachy‐andesite. The variation in Ti/Y (256.00–469.95) and Zr/Y (7.65–36.96) ratios indicates that garnet was present in the source. The well‐defined geochemical trends on variation diagram and the sub‐parallel trends on the chondrite‐normalized REE patterns suggest that fractional crystallization processes have played a major role in the evolution of parental magma. Petrogenetic modelling implies that the sub‐alkaline basalts and intermediate rocks were derived from low‐degree partial melting (1%–5%) of a garnet bearing peridotite source. The melt further evolved by fractional crystallization. We conclude that the geochemical attributes of the Lichi volcanics of the Arunachal Himalaya imply their emplacement in a continental extensional regime and possibly resulted from the Cretaceous Kerguelen plume activities.

Geodynamic and Isotopic Constraints on the Genesis of Kimberlites, Lamproites and Related Magmas From the Finnish Segment of the Karelian Craton

AbstractDespite the scientific and economic significance of kimberlites and related magmas, their origin is unclear. Here, we address this issue using whole‐rock and perovskite‐derived Sr‐Nd‐Hf isotopes for the three occurrences of kimberlite, lamproites and ultramafic lamprophyres (UMLs) in Finland. Mesoproterozoic olivine lamproites at Lentiira‐Kuhmo and UMLs at Kuusamo have different isotopic signatures yet were emplaced contemporaneously at 1,200 Ma in response to an extensional regime linked to the Baltica‐Laurentia breakup. The low εNd(i) and εHf(i) values of the olivine lamproites are consistent with an enriched subcontinental lithospheric mantle (SCLM) source while UML compositions are intermediate between those of typical kimberlites and lamproites and are interpreted to reflect mixing of asthenospheric melts and ∼10%–15% of melts sourced from metasomatized SCLM. The ∼750 Ma Kuusamo kimberlites, are probably linked to the mantle plume activity that initiated Rodinia's break‐up, exhibiting homogenous isotopic compositions which mirror the prominent Geodynamic and Source Constraints for ∼1,200 Ma Olivine Lamproite and Ultramafic Lamprophyre Magmatism in Eastern Finland (PREMA)‐like signature of kimberlites globally. By contrast, ∼620–585 Ma Kaavi‐Kuopio kimberlites show limited range in εNd(i) and 87Sr/86Sr(i) but have remarkably heterogeneous εHf(i) (+6.5 to −6.3) with a temporal trend toward lower εHf(i) values. While the Kuusamo kimberlites erupted during the early stage of continental break‐up, the Kaavi‐Kuopio kimberlites were emplaced when Rodinia break‐up was completed, coeval with formation of the Central Iapetus large igneous province. Magmas forming the Kaavi‐Kupio kimberlites may have formed from an upwelling mantle source similar to PREMA modified by increasing incorporation (up to 10%) of recycled crustal material through time accounting for the trend toward lower εHf(i) in these kimberlites.

Petrogenesis of early–middle paleozoic granitoids in the qilianblock, northwest China: Insight into the transition from adakitic to non-adakitic magmatism in a post-collisional extensional setting

To better understand geodynamic implications for the transition from adakitic to non-adakitic magmatism in a continental collision setting, an integrated study including zircon U–Pb ages and whole-rock geochemistry was performed for the Gahai and Erhai granitoid intrusions within the Qilian Block. The ca. 450–428 Ma Gahai biotite granite and Erhai muscovite-bearing granite are peraluminous S-type granites with adakitic geochemical characteristics, and have low Mg# (41.2–31.7) and εNd(t) (−10.8 to −6.5) values with two–stage Nd model ages of 2.05–1.72 Ga, implying their derivation almost entirely from an ancient crustal source under a thickened lower crust condition. The geochemical characteristics of the granites indicate that the Gahai and Erhai S-type granites were derived from partial melting of meta-greywacke and meta-pelite sources, respectively. In comparison, the ca. 415 Ma Gahai granodiorite belongs to metaluminous I-type granitoid and has low Sr/Y ratios as well as high Y and heavy rare Earth element (REE) concentrations, with nearly flat heavy REE patterns, implying a shallow source region. The granodiorites were most likely generated by partial melting of a K-rich basaltic magma source, with some contributions from mantle-derived melts. Synthesized data from this and previous studies suggest that the ca. 450–415 Ma Gahai and Erhai granitoids within the Qilian Block were generated in a post-collisional extensional regime triggered by the break-off of the northward subducting South Qilian Ocean slab beneath the Qilian Block. The geochemical transition from adakitic to non-adakitic intermediate-acidic magmas indicated that the thickened continental crust of the Qilian Block had experienced significant extension and thinning after ca. 420 Ma.

Selective reactivation of inherited fault zones driven by stress field changes: Insights from structural and paleostress analysis of the Pocuro Fault Zone, Southern Central Andes (32.8°S)

This study aims to explain the selective reactivation of normal faults during the Andean orogeny at the Southern Central Andes western flank. We conducted a structural mapping and paleostress field reconstruction in the regional-scale Pocuro Fault Zone (PFZ) at 32.8°S. Results reveal that the architecture of the PFZ results from at least two deformation phases, each revealing an individual progressive and gradual evolution. The earliest deformation phase is recorded by two ∼ NS-striking normal faults involving a 5 km wide damage zone characterized by quartz-laumontite and calcite veins that were developed under an extensional regime with a WNW-ESE-trending σ3-axis. The latest deformation phase is recorded by one NS-striking reverse-dextral fault with goethite-hematite syn-tectonic precipitation and two NW-striking reverse-sinistral faults. Reverse faults were developed under a compressional/transpressional regime characterised by an ENE-WSW-trending σ1-axis with a σ2-/σ3-axis permutation. From a geophysical data reassessment, we inferred that observed faults in the surface within the PFZ are regional-scale deep-seated structures. Considering previous geochronological data, we correlated the earliest and latest phases with the Abanico Basin extension (middle Eocene-early Miocene) and its subsequent inversion (Miocene). Given the neotectonic evidence (geomorphic markers and deformation of unconsolidated deposits), the latter phase likely remains active. Quartz-laumontite cementation of the fault core's cataclastic material promotes mechanical strengthening leading to negative feedback for the reactivation of inherited normal faults as reverse ones. Conversely, the concentration of fractures in the damage zone between the normal faults promotes mechanical weakening resulting in a preferential area for the propagation of reverse fault during the compressive/transpressional phase.

Investigation of the linear structures of the Menderes Massif (Western Anatolia) using the moving average differences ‘mad’ boundary analysis method

ABSTRACTThe Menderes Massif, located at Western Anatolia, Turkey, is a wide area that is under an extensional regime, resulting in the area having large grabens along with many faults and being geothermally rich. Due to having a large number of linear structures, the Menderes Massif has been a popular area for boundary analysis studies using gravity and magnetic prospecting. Since both prospecting methods result in potential field anomalies that are directly related to the positions of the anomaly sources, boundary analyses prove useful to mark the location of linear subsurface features. In this study, we have examined the Menderes Massif with a different boundary analysis approach that we call moving average differences. We have briefly introduced the method via synthetic gravity anomalies and carried out a tests to show that the algorithm is effective. Next, we have applied the moving average differences method to the actual Bouguer gravity data from the Menderes Massif and interpreted the results, briefly. Finally, we have compared our results with the already‐known faults and two other boundary analysis studies’ results from the area. The moving average differences results revealed new lineaments spread all around the Menderes Massif, which are possibly contacts/faults that are yet to be mapped. Our results also indicate that the moving average differences algorithm we have implemented provides useful information about the lineaments within the gravity anomalies, sufficient for it to be acknowledged as a boundary analysis method.

Association of A‐ and I‐type granitoids in the central Aravalli orogen, Rajasthan: Implications for the Neoproterozoic tectonic evolution of north‐west India

We present new mineralogical and geochemical data for the granitoid plutons of the Neoproterozoic Sendra Granitoid Suite, central Aravalli orogen, north‐west India to constrain their petrogenesis and tectonic setting. The granitoids can be classified into two groups: (a) A‐type Chang, Chitar, Borwar, and Seliberi plutons and (b) I‐type Jaitpura pluton. The available geochronological data (zircon U–Pb ages) suggest that all the granitoids are coeval at 990–970 Ma. The granitoids are mostly granite sensu stricto, with subordinate granodiorite and rare tonalite. The rocks are metaluminous to mildly peraluminous and have high total REE abundances. Nevertheless, there are also certain geochemical differences between A‐type and I‐type granitoids. The I‐type granitoids have relatively high Al2O3 and CaO concentrations and show significant fractionation with increasing SiO2. The least fractionated sample contains low abundances of the HFSE and has low Fe‐number and Ga/Al ratios. In contrast, the A‐type granitoids have lower CaO and higher HFSE concentrations, Fe‐number, and Ga/Al ratios. Both A‐type and I‐type granitoids show negative Ba, Sr, Nb, P, Ti, and Eu anomalies, and are characterized by high zircon‐saturation temperatures (801–977°C). The present data suggest that rocks of the Sendra Granitoid Suite were generated predominantly by partial melting of mafic sources at high temperatures and emplaced in a post‐collisional extensional regime. Moreover, our study provides evidence of the preserved post‐collisional extensional magmatism subsequent to the subduction during the assembly of the Rodinia supercontinent, which is otherwise relatively less prevalent over intra‐plate or within‐plate magmatism during this time period.

Geochronological and metamorphic constraints on the exhumation of the Ama Drime Massif: Implications for the mid-Miocene evolution of Himalayan extensional structures

The east-west (E-W) trending South Tibetan Detachment System (STDS) and the north-south (N-S) trending normal faults and detachments have played significant roles in the Himalayan tectonic evolution since the Miocene. The Ama Drime Massif (ADM), which is bounded by the STDS in the north as well as the Dinggye and Kharta N-S trending detachments in the east and west, respectively, is a rare place where N-S and E-W extensions interacted and thus contains key information to detect the evolution of Himalayan extensional structures. Aiming at fully reconstructing the exhumation process of the ADM and figuring out the mid-Miocene evolution of Himalayan extensional structures, this contribution provides detailed field investigations and geochronological, petrological, as well as mineral compositional studies to constrain the activity of the detachments surrounding the ADM, the metamorphic process, and the thermal state of the ADM. The geochronological results suggest that both the STDS and the Dinggye detachment were active at 13 Ma. Unlike the Dinggye detachment, whose ductile deformation terminated at ~10 Ma, the Kharta detachment maintained its ductile deformation until at least 8.5 Ma. Geochronological, petrological, and mineral compositional analyses show that the ADM paragneiss underwent muscovite dehydration melting and garnet breakdown from at least 20 Ma to 12.5 Ma, indicating a long-term exhumation of the ADM. Importantly, biotite dehydration melting and garnet growth in the ADM orthogneiss suggest a heating event in the ADM at 15–13 Ma. Based on the temporal relationship of different extensional structures, the exhumation of the ADM was dominated by the STDS before 15 Ma, and subsequently by the E-W extension of the Dinggye and Kharta detachments since 15–13 Ma. The E-W extension led to significant uplift and melting of the ADM gneisses, which made the STDS reactivate as a passive stretching detachment after its ~15 Ma cessation. In the mid-Miocene E-W extensional regime, the ADM had exhumed asymmetrically with decreasing time and amount of the exhumation from its eastern side to the western side. Together with the heating event, the asymmetric exhumation indicates the lateral delamination of the subducted Indian lithosphere beneath the ADM in the middle Miocene. From a wider perspective, the mid-Miocene E-W extensions in the Himalayan Orogen were intrinsically controlled by the deep geodynamic process of the subducted Indian lithosphere and played a important role in the diachronous cessation of the STDS.

Cancer Risk Assessment and Geochemical Features of Granitoids at Nikeiba, Southeastern Desert, Egypt

Different rock types (syenogranite, alkali feldspar granite and quartz syenite intruded by microgranite dikes and quartz veins) were investigated in the Nikeiba region in Egypt. The main components of the studied intrusive rocks, comprised of granites and quartz syenite, are plagioclase, amphibole, biotite, quartz and K-feldspar in different proportions. Ground gamma ray measurements show that syenogranite, quartz syenite and microgranite dikes have the highest radioactivity (K, eU, eTh and their ratios) in comparison with alkali feldspar granite. Geochemically, syenogranite, alkali feldspar granite and quartz syenite are enriched with large-ion lithophile elements (LILE; Ba, Rb, Sr) and high field-strength elements (HFSE; Y, Zr and Nb), but have decreased Ce, reflecting their alkaline affinity. These rocks reveal calc–alkaline affinity, metaluminous characteristics, A-type granites and post-collision geochemical signatures, which indicates emplacement in within-plate environments under an extensional regime. U and Th are increased in syenogranite and quartz syenite, whereas alkali feldspar granite shows a marked decrease in U and Th. The highest average values of AU (131 ± 49 Bq·kg−1), ATh (164 ± 35) and AK (1402 ± 239) in the syenogranite samples are higher than the recommended worldwide average. The radioactivity levels found in the samples are the result of the alteration of radioactive carrying minerals found inside granite faults. The public’s radioactive risk from the radionuclides found in the investigated granitoid samples is estimated by calculating radiological risks. The excess lifetime cancer (ELCR) values exceed the permissible limit. Therefore, the granitoids are unsuitable for use as infrastructure materials.

Tracking mineral evolution and element mobility during albitisation and subsequent kaolinisation of phyllite rocks: A case study from the Verrucano of Monti Pisani, Tuscany, Italy

AbstractThis work describes the first occurrence of albitite rocks in the Middle Triassic Verruca Formation, Monti Pisani, Northern Apennines, northern Tuscany, Italy. The albitite formed by Na-metasomatism of phyllites (‘potassic white mica' + quartz + ‘chlorite' + hematite + albite) in an amagmatic environment. The albitisation process took place after the Miocene main phases of Apenninic deformation and was followed by the formation of veins of Fe-carbonate + quartz. Hydrothermal alteration progressed with the ingression, possibly favoured by the increase of permeability due to albitisation, of a slightly acidic, oxidising, aqueous fluid that led to the pervasive kaolinisation of the albitite and to the complete transformation of the Fe-carbonate of the veins into Fe-hydroxides. This stage was followed by supergene alteration that led to the formation of a pervasive network of halloysite veinlets and colloform (P–Al–Si)-bearing Fe-hydroxides. Finally, the hydrothermally altered rock underwent a localised brittle fracturing without new minerals being formed. The prominent compositional changes occurring during this multi-stage hydrothermal process were the inversion of the Na2O/K2O ratio of the whole rock (from 0.07 in the pristine phyllite to up to 200 for the kaolinised albitite), the loss of Fe and Mg, and the enrichment of Sb. The MREE were partially lost, whereas LREE and HREE behaved conservatively. Though pervasive hydrothermal alteration occurrences are common in central-southern Tuscany, mostly related to the post-collisional extensional regime, lithospheric thinning and emplacement of magmatic bodies in the crust, the rare Monti Pisani kaolinised albitite described in this investigation expands the effects of post-collisional hydrothermal activity in Tuscany northwards, far from potential magmatic sources.

Groundwater play in extensional regime: a case study in Cibunar Region, Garut, Indonesia

The intermountain Cibunar area of the Garut basin periodically suffered from a drought and thus became a devastating hazard. Its fault structure as an impact of the extensional regime might affect the groundwater play as a transport or barrier system. The tectonic setting and its disruption of volcanic lithologies by faults make the area's hydrogeology very complex. The conducted electrical resistivity tomography coupled with gravity and magneto-telluric studies revealed the aquifer play on the zone is affected by the extensional regime. Tectonically, the drought Cibunar district is close to the top of the horst structure where the uplifted segments might contribute to the limited low resistivity aquifer zone and triggered the flow to the graben zone. The low and high resistivity on the region was related to an unconfined aquifer and unsaturated zone, while the medium zone remains unclear.

Active tectonics and landform evolution in the Longxian-Baoji Fault Zone, Northeast Tibet, China, determined using combined ridge and stream profiles

The Longxian-Baoji Fault Zone (LBFZ) is the main structural link between the compressional Liupanshan Mountain in north and the extensional Weihe Basin in south, which accommodated complex deformation between the Tibetan Plateau and the Ordos Block. We determined the tectonic activity of the normal faults in the LBFZ using combined ridge and stream profiles measured from the natural landscape and simulated by a numerical model. The well-preserved geomorphic features (i.e., scarps) and steep scarp slopes show that the Guguan-Guozhen Fault (GGF) has been active during the Late Pleistocene to Holocene. The distinct decrease of scarp heights of the GGF near Badu and the low scarp and land surface slopes of ridge and stream profiles for the inferred northern extension of the GGF demonstrate that the GGF terminates near Badu and does not extend farther to the north. The Taoyuan-Guichuansi Fault is determined to be an Early-Middle Pleistocene fault, as evident from the different shapes and low scarp slopes of stream profiles. The longitudinal profiles of the Qianyang-Biaojiao Fault are characterized by two segments with different slopes, indicating that the fault may not have been active during the Quaternary. Our results show that the profile shapes, spatial pattern of scarp height, and the slopes of scarp and land surface of ridge and stream profiles are appropriate metrics of fault activity. Furthermore, we constructed the landform evolution in the LBFZ and suggest that it is closely related to the active tectonics. The change in fault activity reflects a tectonic transformation from an extensional regime to a dominantly transtensional regime.