Fractional Crystallization Processes Research Articles

Contrasting appinites, vaugnerites and related granitoids from the NW Iberian Massif: insight into mantle and crustal sources

Abstract. Post-collisional Mg–K-rich mafic rocks with associated granitoids appear regularly in most orogens. They are relevant to evaluate the mantle role in the genesis of granitoids and thereby of the continental crust itself. The most characteristic Mg–K mafic rocks in the Variscan Iberian Massif are appinites and vaugnerites. Two examples with associated granitoids from NW Iberia have been compared to assess their mantle and crustal sources and the magmatic processes involved in their formation. Related granitoids are tonalites, granodiorites and monzonitic granites. Available whole-rock major and trace element compositions, as well as Sr and Nd isotopes, were used for this comparison, along with new Sr–Nd isotopic data. The appinite–granitoid association is calc–alkalic, whereas the vaugneritic one is calc–alkalic transitional to alkali–calcic. Vaugnerites are more enriched in Mg and K, compatible and incompatible trace elements and display more fractionated rare-earth element (REE) patterns than appinites. Associated granitoids provide similar differences. Appinites and vaugnerites have Sr and Nd crustal isotopic signatures resulting from partial melting of a different subduction-type metasomatised mantle: amphibole spinel lherzolites for appinites and more refractory and deeper amphibole phlogopite ± garnet peridotites for vaugnerites. Further interaction of these basic melts with coeval granitoids occurred during their ascent and emplacement. The monzonitic granites derived from partial melting of metaigneous acid granulites, without discarding contribution of metasediments and/or an increasing role of biotite incongruent melting in those related to vaugnerites. An assimilation with fractional crystallisation process between appinite magmas and granulites could explain tonalites and granodiorites. This process was not confirmed for granodiorites related to vaugnerites.

Enrichment of cobalt in the Xiarihamu Ni-Co sulfide deposit in the East Kunlun orogenic belt, Western China: Constraints from distribution of cobalt in sulfides and Fe and S isotopes of sulfides

The Xiarihamu Ni-Co sulfide deposit in the East Kunlun orogenic belt (EKOB), western China, is the largest magmatic Ni-Cu-(Co) sulfide deposit found in the orogenic belts worldwide. The geochemical behavior of Co during the evolution of sulfide melt is key to understand the enrichment process of Co in the Xiarihamu deposit, however remains unclear. In this study, the Co contents of sulfide inclusions enclosed within olivine and pyroxene and those of the sulfides interstitial to olivine and pyroxene in the Xiarihamu deposit were examinated by the Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) -Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) and Electron Probe Microanalyzer (EPMA). The Fe and S isotopic compositions of the sulfides were measured in situ by LA-MC-ICPMS. The results show that Co contents increase from silicate to sulfide and arsenide minerals, and from chalcopyrite to pyrrhotite and pentlandite in the sulfides. High Co contents in pentlandite of pyroxenite (av. 2.79 %) and gabbro (av. 7.34 %) indicate that Co is enriched in the pentlandite of pyroxenite in different stage of magma. The pyrrhotite and pentlandite show positive correlation of Co with Fe and Ni, and suggested isomorphic substitution of Co for Fe and Ni. The δ56Fe values increase from pyrrhotite to pentlandite due to kinetic fractionation of Fe isotopes of Fe valent and bond length/strength, because pyrrhotite has longer bond and weaker bond strength of Fe-S than pentlandite, and display lighter Fe isotopic compositions. The δ56Fe values of pentlandite increase substantially from host peridotite to pyroxenite, which could be related to subsolidus fractional crystallization processes of monosulfide solid solution (MSS). The sulfide segregated and crystallized early from the MSS is richen in light Fe isotope. The sulfides in gabbro have high δ34S values, similar to δ34S of the sulfides in the country rocks of Proterozoic granitic gneiss, indicating a continuous addition of external sulfur into magma chamber. The δ34S and δ56Fe values of the sulfides approximately increase with increasing Co contents. Higher δ56Fe and δ34S values and Co contents of pentlandite in the pyroxenite suggest that the Co enrichment is mainly associated with sulfide saturation of magmas by crustal contamination.

Corrente Canoa pluton: A less-evolved portion of the Statherian Borrachudos Suite (Guanhães basement inlier, Araçuaí orogen)

We bring new geophysical, geochemical, petrographic and geochronological data for the Corrente Canoa pluton, an igneous body within the Guanhães basement inlier, Araçuaí orogen. Our results demonstrate that this unit was crystallized in 1703.1 ± 4.3 Ma (U–Pb, LA-ICP-MS, zircons) and is part of the anorogenic Borrachudos Suite, integrating the Statherian Silicic Large Igneous Province emplaced at the São Francisco-Congo Paleocontinent in the context of an extensive rifting event. The Corrente Canoa pluton presents a distinctive geophysical and geochemical signature, which sets it apart from the other plutons in the suite. In airborne gammaspectrometry maps, its area of occurrence is depleted in Th and U. Geochemically, it presents a negative correlation between SiO2 and TiO2. Al2O3, MgO, CaO e FOt, which suggests fractionation of plagioclase, pyroxene, amphibole, biotite and Fe–Ti oxides along the crystallization process. K-feldspar and pyroxene controlled the fractional crystallization, and the latter is increased in the Corrente Canoa pluton, indicating that it is less-evolved. The difference between Eu/Eu × of the Corrente Canoa pluton (1.01 av.) and the rest of the Borrachudos Suite (0.32 av.) also attest its lower degree of fractionation. Zr saturation thermometry indicates an average crystallization temperature for the Corrente Canoa pluton of 888 °C, a result higher than the average for the rest of the Borrachudos Suite (846 °C). Altogether, these results suggest that the Corrente Canoa pluton was crystallized in a deeper portion of the crust. Based on this evidence, we argue that the genesis of the Corrente Canoa pluton and their differences to the other plutons of the Borrachudos Suite are better explained by fractional crystallization processes rather than the metasomatism suggested by previous studies. Fractional crystallization not only clarifies the distinctions between these plutons but also enhances the understanding of the entire differentiation process within the Borrachudos Suite. Additionally, we discuss possible explanations for the juxtaposition of the Current Canoa and Morro do Urubu plutons, based on their differences in age and petrogenesis. The distinct characteristics of the Corrente Canoa pluton points to the need of a thorough cartographic review in the Guanhães block, because at least part of what is now mapped as basement units might be in fact rocks of the Borrachudos Suite, but with a different geophysical and geochemical signature than usual for this suite.

Magmatic arc construction within the Kedougou-Kenieba inlier, eastern Senegal: Petrographic, lithogeochemical and radiogenic isotope constraints

New petrographic, lithogeochemical and radiogenic isotope results from magmatic intrusions of the southeastern part of the Kedougou-Kenieba Inlier, Senegal document that these intrusions display evidence of a magmatic continuum of medium to high-K composition. A low-K intrusion group consists of andesitic, dioritic and tonalitic compostitions, with moderate (La/Yb)N and low (Dy/Yb)N ratios ranging, respectively, from 7.3 to 21.4 (with an average of 17.3) and 1.0 to 1.5. These intrusions have no obvious Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu* = 0.90–1.17), an average SiO2 concentration of 60.5 wt%, and are enriched in MgO, with an average concentration of 4.1 wt%. Their εNd values are high and range from +5.16 to +8.88, whereas they have low 87Sr/86Sri ratios of 0.701380–0.702552. This geochemical signature is characteristic of a depleted mantle source, which is supported by high Ni concentrations up to 211 ppm and high Mg# up to 85.35. The high-K leucogranite is characterized by high (La/Yb)N and higher (Dy/Yb)N ratios of, respectively, 10.6–48.3 (with an average of 30.5) and 2.0 to 2.4. It displays strong negative Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu* = 0.33–0.52), and has a higher average SiO2 concentration of 74 wt%, lower MgO concentration with an average of 0.21 wt%, as well as lower εNd values below −1.95. This geochemical signature suggests a continental crustal source for the magmas. Between these two end-members, there is an intermediate group of medium to high-K intrusions including quartz diorite, tonalite, granodiorite and monzogranite. These rocks are characterized by a wide variation of geochemical compositions and are most likely the result of a mixing of different magmatic sources and extreme fractional crystallization processes. Furthermore, we demonstrate that these magmatic intrusions were formed in a volcanic arc. These new data are evidence for a diversity of the intrusions within the southeastern part of the Kedougou-Kenieba Inlier.

Zircon U–Pb geochronology, Nd isotopes and geochemistry of mafic granulites from the Central Indian Tectonic Zone: isotopic constraints on Proterozoic crustal evolution

Abstract The Central Indian Tectonic Zone (CITZ) comprises northern and southern Indian cratonic blocks and is a tectonic window that is suitable for investigating the Proterozoic crustal evolution because of the presence of a wide variety of lithologies. Geochemical and geochronological data on mafic granulites by previous workers do not ascertain the possibility of mafic protoliths and their coeval link to other CITZ units. Thus, determining the precise timing of the formation of mafic granulites may indicate a connection between metamorphism and fragmentation of the Columbian supercontinent. This study presents zircon U–Pb ages, Nd isotopes and the geochemistry of mafic granulites to evaluate their genesis and timing of metamorphism. The results show the tholeiitic affinity and primary magmatic differentiation of the parental melt. Depletion of Nb, P, Zr and Ti and positive enrichment of Ba, U and Pb indicate the derivation of mafic granulites from a variably enriched subcontinental lithospheric mantle (SCLM) source. The zircon U–Pb ages (1564 ± 8 to 1598 ± 9 Ma) are interpreted as a period of granulite-facies metamorphism. The T DM (depleted-mantle) model ages (2.9–3.4 Ga) of mafic granulites indicate the timing of mafic protolith extraction. The mineral isochron age c. 1.0 Ga indicates that these rocks underwent some events during an early Neoproterozoic period. Protolith of mafic granulites could be related to the evolution of melts derived from metasomatized SCLM through fractional crystallization processes.

Eocene (∼ 53 Ma) alkaline complex in the southern Lhasa subterrane, Tibet: Implications for Neo-Tethyan slab breakoff

The Eocene alkaline magmatism in the southern Lhasa subterrane provides insights into the timing and dynamic mechanism of the Neo-Tethyan oceanic slab breakoff. Here, we present a combined study of whole-rock geochemistry, zircon U–Pb ages and Sr–Nd–Hf isotopes for the Mayum alkaline complex in the southern Lhasa subterrane. The complex is composed of amphibole syenites, quartz syenite, alkali feldspar granites and mafic microgranular enclaves (MMEs) in the host quartz syenites. Their crystallization ages are 52.2 ± 0.8 Ma, 52.2 ± 1.0 Ma, 49.6 ± 0.5 Ma and 53.1 ± 1.6 Ma, respectively, indicating that these rocks were simultaneously generated in the early Eocene. The hosted alkaline rocks are shoshonic with high SiO2 (64.32–70.49 wt.%), Na2O+K2O (6.63–9.43 wt.%) and low MgO (0.57–2.47 wt.%) contents. They are enriched in large-ion lithophile elements (LILEs: e.g., Rb, K), light rare earth elements (LREEs), Th and U, and are depleted in high field-strength elements (HFSEs) (such as Nb, Ta, and Ti) with strongly negative Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu* = 0.33–0.75). They have homogeneous whole-rock (87Sr/86Sr)i ratios (0.7051–0.7056), low εNd(t) values (–1.7 to –0.9), and positive zircon εHf(t) values (+1.69 to +7.72). Thus, the host alkaline rocks were generated from partial melting of the juvenile lower crust under the southern Lhasa subterrane, and went through a fractional crystallization process during magma ascending emplacement. Compared with the host alkaline complex, the MMEs have lower SiO2 contents (55.16–63.67 wt.%), very higher Fe2O3T (4.08–6.58 wt.%) contents with variable Cr (3.45–226.00 ppm), V (46–107 ppm) and Ni (2.66–6.16 ppm) contents. Meanwhile, the MMEs have similar patterns in trace and rare earth elements (such as obviously Eu anomalies, Eu/Eu* = 0.24–0.38) and similar whole-rock Sr-Nd isotopes ((87Sr/86Sr)i = 0.7051–0.7056, εNd(t) = –2.1 to –1.4) with the host alkaline rocks. Thus, the MMEs might be derived from a mantle source, and magma mixing occurred between the MMEs and the host alkaline rocks. The Mayum alkaline rocks and associated MMEs were generated under an extensional tectonic setting related to the Neo-Tethyan oceanic slab breakoff at ca. 53 Ma.

Monazite record of assimilation and differentiation processes in the petrogenesis of Himalayan leucogranites

The Himalayan leucogranites have received particular attention as they record the continental crust-building processes of a collisional orogenic system. Deciphering the magmatic evolution processes and potential sources is essential for understanding the origin of the Himalayan leucogranites. In-situ monazite Th-Pb ages, trace element geochemistry, and Nd isotope ratios have been determined with whole-rock geochemical data for the leucogranites and their country rocks in the Yadong area, southern Tibet. Monazites in most of the studied leucogranites are marked by multiple age populations with variable REE ratios and wide ranges of Nd isotope ratios, reflecting a complex history of magmatic processes. Abundant inherited monazites are identified in the Yadong leucogranites, and most of them are excluded from the source regions due to their distinguished Nd isotope compositions from the magmatic monazites. The inherited monazites share close affinities in geochronological dates and geochemical compositions with those in the country rocks, strongly suggesting a major origin of the country-rock contamination. This highlights the contamination-assimilation processes in the genesis of the Yadong leucogranites. It is worth noting that xenocrystal monazites from the metasedimentary country rock are less preserved in the leucogranites than those from the granitoid country rock, which probably reflects the different assimilation reactions for different types of country rock. Assimilation of the metapelitic rocks released low content of xenocrystic monazite and high volume of partial melt into the leucogranites, whereas assimilation of the granitoid rocks released high content of xenocrystic monazite. In addition to the contamination-assimilation processes, the uniform Nd isotope data with large variations in REE ratios for magmatic monazites in some leucogranite samples suggest a subsequent closed-system fractional crystallization process during the magma evolution. Besides, some magmatic monazites in the muscovite granites show a significant tetrad effect in the Chondrite-normalized REE patterns, indicating that the magma system has evolved into an aqueous fluid-available environment. This supports an important role of the magmatic differentiation process in the formation of the Yadong leucogranites. Taken together, a petrogenic model involving AFC (assimilation and fractional crystallization) processes is proposed, and the geochemical variations of the Yadong leucogranites are mainly attributed to the post-source processes. It is suggested that the rock geochemistry of the Himalayan leucogranites often dose not directly reflect the nature and the petrogenetic processes in the source regions.

Strongly Peraluminous Highly Fractionated I-Type Granite from Bangong–Nujiang Metallogenic Belt, Tibet: Implications for Continental Evolution and Evaluation of Economic Potentiality

The research on highly fractionated granite has significant implications for both the evolution and compositional maturation of the continental crust and metallogenic exploration. As a means of further understanding crustal evolution and promoting ore exploration in the Bangong–Nujiang metallogenic belt (BNMB), we present the petrography, zircon LA–ICP–MS U–Pb age, and Hf isotopic data, along with the whole-rock geochemical and Sr–Nd isotopic composition on Kese highly fractionated granite in the Baingoin area within the BNMB, central Tibet. The results show that Kese granite possesses a zircon U–Pb age of 127.8 ± 1.7 Ma and a relative enrichment in zircon Hf isotopic composition (−12.8~+0.3) with a two-stage Hf model age of 1.2~2.0 Ga. This granite belongs to the high-K calc-alkaline series, characterized by a strongly peraluminous feature, and is enriched in large-ion lithophile elements (LILEs) and Nd isotopes (−7.86~−7.74). The granite was likely to have been derived from the mixed melts derived from 40%~45% juvenile basaltic lower crust, 15%~20% ancient lower, and 40% middle–upper, following intense fractional crystallization processes involving amphibole, biotite, plagioclase, and some accessory minerals during the magma’s evolution. We infer that Kese highly fractionated granite can be formed from the continental collision of the Lhasa–Qiangtang terranes initiated before 128 Ma. The reworking of pre-existing juvenile and ancient crustal materials drove the composition of the northern Lhasa terrane to that of a mature continental crust. Moreover, the distinctive geochemical features have shown that the high degree of differentiation led to intense magmatic–hydrothermal interaction during the formation of Kese granite. A comparison of the geochemical characteristics of mineralized and barren granites suggests that the highly fractionated granites in Baingoin from the BNMB have a high economic potential and are suitable for preliminary exploration of Sn–W-(U) deposits.

Large-Scale Cretaceous Adakitic Magmatism Induced by Water-Fluxed Melting of Continental Crust during the North China Craton Destruction

ABSTRACT The mechanism behind the destabilization of the North China Craton (NCC) remains a contentious topic among researchers. Large-scale Cretaceous adakitic magmatism in the NCC offers insights into the decratonization process. This study focuses on the Huashan and Laoniushan plutons located in the Lesser Qinling on the southern margin of the NCC and compiles published data for coeval adakitic rocks to investigate the role of water in adakitic rock petrogenesis during the peak destruction of NCC. Both the Huashan and Laoniushan plutons exhibit adakitic signatures, including high Sr (193–1080 ppm), low Yb (<14.8 ppm) and Y (<1.24 ppm) concentrations, as well as high Sr/Y (18–100) and La/Yb (24–58) ratios. The zircon Hf–O isotope compositions suggest that the primary source for the Huashan and Laoniushan plutons is the mafic lower crust of NCC. Nevertheless, there are significant differences in trace element characteristics between the two plutons. Specifically, the Huashan pluton displays higher Na2O/K2O ratios, lower levels of Rb, Rb/Sr, Nb, Ta content, and a weak Eu anomaly in comparison to the Laoniushan pluton. These variations in geochemical attributes cannot be accounted for by mechanisms like mantle-derived magma mixing, crustal contamination, or fractional crystallization processes. Instead, these disparities are attributed to distinct modes of crustal anatexis, involving both water-fluxed and dehydration melting. Subsequently, we conducted thermodynamic simulations of the melting process of mafic lower crust under different pressure (0.5–1.5 GPa) and water content conditions (1–3 wt.%). The simulation results suggest that the Huashan pluton is most likely formed through water-fluxed melting in a scenario with normal crustal thickness (1 GPa). On the other hand, the Laoniushan pluton might have originated from dehydration melting under normal crustal thickness and pressure conditions. Notably, high pressure (>1.5 GPa) is not necessary for the formation of intracontinental adakitic rocks. The release of water from metasomatized lithospheric mantle and subsequent hydration of the lower continental crust triggers extensive adakitic magmatism in the NCC. These findings emphasize the significance of deep water cycling in understanding large-scale magmatic events and illuminate the decratonization mechanism.

Geochemistry, petrogenesis, and tectonic setting of the Cúcamo mafic and intermediate volcanic rocks from the Ahualulco Volcanic Complex, San Luis Potosí, Mexico

The Ahualulco Volcanic Complex (AVC) is situated in the north-central part of the San Luis Potosí Volcanic Field (SLPVF) that is found in the southern portion of the Mesa Central (MC). The Cúcamo, AVC is mainly composed of mafic and intermediate volcanic rocks. The present study focuses on understanding the evolution, origin, and magmatic processes and petrogenesis of mafic and intermediate rocks in the Cúcamo, AVC. The Quaternary mafic rocks have porphyritic textures with the mineral assemblage of olivine, and clinopyroxene. These volcanic rocks display high K calc-alkaline basaltic compositions with enrichment in light rare earth elements (LREEs) and incompatible elements. Geochemical modeling reveals that mafic magmas were derived through a partial melting process of a spinel lherzolite source at low degrees of melting (~2 to 15 %) in an extensional regime. The intermediate volcanic rocks show porphyritic and glomeroporphyritic textures with matrix formed by randomly oriented microlites. The main mineral assemblage consists of plagioclase, K-feldspar, and clinopyroxene. These volcanic rocks are characterized by calc-alkaline basaltic andesitic and andesite compositions with enrichment in light rare earth elements and incompatible elements. Geochemical modeling suggests that intermediate rocks were derived from high ratios of assimilation and fractional crystallization processes between mafic melts and continental crust in an extensional environment.

Geochemistry and petrogenesis of rare-metal pegmatites: A case study of Lemera Sn ore deposits in Kivu region of Karagwe-Ankole Belt, D. R. Congo

This paper reports the results from an investigation on petrogenesis and geochemistry of the Lemera granite pegmatites in Kivu region of Karagwe-Ankole Belt, D. R. Congo and the related tin ore deposits. Seven granite pegmatite samples were collected from outcrops and analyzed for bulk-rock geochemistry analysis using ICP-MS and XRF spectrometry. The analyzed samples show a relative abundance of Al2O3 over Fe2O3(T) and MgO (12.95, 0.96, and 0.16, all in wt.%, on average and respectively). The alumina saturation index ranges from 1.33 to 2.05. The abundances of some important rare metals, as well as some related key parameters, are as follows: Sn ((1–138)×10-6), Ta ((0.20–0.60)×10−6), Nb ((1–8)×10-6), Cs ((1.20–3.20)×10−6), Rb ((3–223)×10−6), Zr ((7–201)×10−6), w(K)/w(Rb) (150–272); w(K)/w(Cs) (9.06–23.3); w(Nb)/w(Ta) (3.33–14). The results indicate that the Lemera granite pegmatites crystallized from a fertile, peraluminous, and S-type granitic magma through a fractional crystallization process in a late to post-collisional setting. Mineralization of Sn and Zr of Lemera granite pegmatites is noticed.

Insights from apatite and zircon geochemistry into peraluminous I-type granitoid: A case study of granodiorite porphyry and lamprophyre in Baoshan, China

Granitoids are the most important component of continental crust, yet there has been debate regarding the classification and petrogenesis of peraluminous I- and S-type. As a result of fractional crystallizing and crustal contamination, whole-rock geochemistry sometimes fails to accurately reflect the type of primitive magma. Recent studies, however, suggest that the accessory mineral compositions can shed light on the character and petrogenesis of their primitive magma. In this contribution, we use apatite and zircon as indicators to explore the distinctions between peraluminous I- and S-type granitoids, and the petrogenesis of typical peraluminous I-type granitoids (Baoshan granitoids). Apatite trace elements indicate that their initial magma was mafic I-type, even though whole-rock compositions appear to be the hybrids of I- and S-type granitoids. Additionally, we propose that the assimilation and fractional crystallization processes are responsible for the decoupling between the compositions of whole-rock and accessory minerals. The compositions and isotopes of zircon can also reveal the components of the magma source region. The zircons εHf(t) values of the Baoshan granodiorite porphyry and lamprophyre have comparable Hf(t) values (−9.5 to −6.2 and −12.5 to −6.2, respectively). Based on the spotting of ~900 Ma inherited zircons and enriched εHf(t) values, we propose that the granitoids were formed by the partial melting of felsic Paleoproterozoic crust and a little of Neoproterozoic mafic juvenile crust, while lamprophyre was generated by the cooling of upwelling magma from the same source region as granitoids. According to the apatite trace element ratios (Sr/Th vs. La/Sm), the source region of the Baoshan intrusion is identified to been metasomatized by slab-derived fluid. Our data, in conjunction with previous studies, suggest that the paleo-Pacific slab roll-back triggered the high-temperature asthenosphere mantle upwelling, while the assimilation and fractional crystallization occurring along with the rising melts in route to the surface.

Two Distinct Fractional Crystallization Mechanisms of A-Type Granites in the Nanling Range, South China: A Case Study of the Jiuyishan Complex Massif and Xianghualing Intrusive Stocks

The petrogenesis of A-type granites with different occurrences in the Nanling Range remains unclear. In this study, a case study of the Jiuyishan complex massif and Xianghualing intrusive stocks was conducted to determine this problem. The Jiuyishan complex massif is composed of four units (Jinjiling, Pangxiemu, Shaziling and Xishan). These four units have similar zircon U-Pb ages of approximately 153 Ma, with high Zr + Nb + Ce + Y contents (>350 ppm), high 10,000 Ga/Al ratios (>2.6), and a high crystallization temperature, indicating A-type affinities. They show a gradual change in lithology and geochemistry, implying a fractional crystallization process. These units also have similar εNd(t) values (−8.2 to −5.8) and zircon εHf(t) values (−7.5 to −2.2) except for the Shaziling MMEs (mafic microgranular enclaves) (−14.2 to 4.8), demonstrating their lower crustal source. However, the Shaziling unit may have contributed mantle-derived magma based on the geochemical data of its hosted MMEs. In comparison, the two Xianghualing intrusive stocks have similar geochemical features but exhibit highly evolved features (high Rb, U, Y, Ta and Nb contents and low Eu, Ba, Sr, P, Ti, Ca, Mg and Fe contents, with V-shaped REE distribution patterns). They have different zircon U-Pb ages of approximately 160 Ma and 155 Ma. The two stocks also have similar whole-rock εNd(t) values (−6.5 to −5.7) and zircon εHf(t) values (−7.6 to −2.7) and equally illustrate a lower crustal source region. Combining with their vertical zonation, they may have experienced remarkable fractional crystallization with possible assimilation processes. We propose that the Jiuyishan complex and Xianghualing stocks have two distinct fractional crystallization mechanisms during their formation. The Jiuyishan complex was formed by in situ crystal mush fractionation, while the Xianghualing stocks were formed by flowage differentiation during magma ascent or gravitational settling during magma solidification after emplacement. However, more than one mechanism affected the fractional crystallization processes of these granitic rocks.

Paleoproterozoic Crust–Mantle Interaction in the Khondalite Belt, North China Craton: Constraints from Geochronology, Elements, and Hf-O-Sr-Nd Isotopes of the Layered Complex in the Jining Terrane

The Paleoproterozoic Khondalite Belt, located in the northwestern segment of North China Craton (NCC), is characterized by widespread high-temperature/ultrahigh-temperature (UHT) granulite/gneiss and large-scale magmatic activity. The tectonic evolution is still controversial. Here, we report new geochronological, elemental, and Hf-O-Sr-Nd isotopic data for a Paleoproterozoic layered complex in the Jining terrane to constrain the tectonic evolution of the Khondalite Belt. In situ zircon U-Pb dating indicates that the Sanchakou gabbros were emplaced between ~1.94 Ga and ~1.82 Ga, which might be the heat source of UHT metamorphism. The elemental and Hf-O-Sr-Nd isotopic analysis shows that the formation of Sanchakou gabbros is consistent with the assimilation and fractional crystallization (AFC) process. The magma originates from the 10%~20% partial melting of the spinel + garnet lherzolite mantle. The Sanchakou gabbros are magmatic crystallization products mixed with crustal wallrocks in the magma chamber. We have established a tectonic evolution model involving asthenosphere upwelling after the amalgamation of the Ordos and Yinshan Blocks at ~1.95 Ga.

Deciphering mantle heterogeneity associated with ancient subduction-related metasomatism: Insights from Mg-K isotopes in potassic alkaline rocks

Melts and fluids derived from subducting/subducted oceanic lithosphere contribute significantly to mantle compositional heterogeneity. Historically metasomatized lithospheric mantle modified by varying materials, especially volatile-rich slab fluids, has been understood to be crucial for the formation of giant ore deposits, thus providing potential prospective areas for mineral exploration. However, it is not straightforward to identify superimposed effects of slab melts and fluids on the sub-continental lithosphere (SCLM) that has experienced long-lived and/or multiple metasomatism. In this study, we present a novel study using Mg and K isotopes, together with radioactive isotopes on mafic post-collisional alkaline potassic rocks (PARs) with the aim of deciphering varying agents contributing to the heterogeneous metasomatism of the SCLM beneath the southeastern Tibetan Plateau. The PARs, formed at ∼36 Ma, are characterized by high abundances of large ion lithophile elements (LILE) but depleted in high field strength elements (HFSE) with high Rb/Sr ratios, indicating a phlogopite-bearing mantle source. We find that features of light Mg (δ26Mg = −0.52 to −0.25‰) and heavy K (δ41K = −0.56 to +0.08‰) isotopes observed in the PARs are largely inherited from their mantle sources with negligible effects of kinetic fractionation, fractional crystallization and crustal level processes. Our modelling reveals that the notable divergence of Sr–Nd–Pb–Mg–K isotope compositions between PAR suites in different tectonic blocks are best understood as resulting from varying contributions of slab-derived components into the overlying mantle lithosphere, including sediment-derived melts, ocean crust-derived supercritical fluids, and marine carbonates. Particularly, their high Th/U ratios and negative correlations between δ26Mg and δ41K values suggest that slab-derived supercritical fluids can dissolve and transport Mg-rich (dolomitic) carbonate into the mantle wedge.

Origin of silicic rocks of the Deccan Traps continental flood basalt province: Inferences from field observations, petrography, and geochemistry

The origin of silicic rocks (SiO2 > 65 wt%) in Continental Flood Basalt (CFB) provinces could be attributed to complex petrogenetic processes. The 65.5–66 Ma old Deccan Traps CFB contains eight sporadic but significant silicic rock exposures that are studied here in a comprehensive framework using field observations, petrography, major oxides (n = 56), and trace element chemistry. Rhyolite and granophyre, as well as subordinate felsite, ignimbrite, trachyte, pitchstone, and microgranite coexist with volcanic and plutonic mafic rocks such as basalt, basaltic andesite, and gabbro. Multiple isolated and circular/semi-circular hills and linear dykes of silicic rocks are present in the form of lavas with prominent flow folding, rheomorphic ignimbrite, and tuffs. The ‘Rheological Agpaitic Index’ (RAI) indicates that most of the silicic rocks in the Deccan Traps are effusive in nature, except for Rajpipla, Alech, Bombay, and Osham silicic rocks, which are marked by explosive volcanism. Thermodynamic-based Rhyolite-MELTS modelling suggests that the major oxide composition of Pavagadh and Barda basalt is a likely candidate for the parental melt composition of the silicic rocks of the Deccan Traps. Ba, Sr, P, Zr, and Ti anomalies are consistent with the fractionation of K-feldspar, plagioclase, apatite, zircon, and Fe-Ti oxides, respectively. Two broad REE patterns are noticed in the Deccan Traps silicic rocks: a flat pattern for Barda, Alech, and Chogat-Chamardi silicic rocks, and a steep REE pattern for Osham, Rajula, Pavagadh, Rajpipla, and Bombay silicic rocks. Trace element modelling reveals that 5–10 % partial melting of a spinel peridotite source could produce an REE pattern and abundances similar to the associated basalts. Further extensive fractional crystallization (60–90 %) of the parental mafic melt at a deeper depth (where spinel is stable) could produce the REE composition and pattern observed in most silicic rocks except for those of Barda, Alech, and Chogat-Chamardi, which require fractional crystallization of the same parental melt at a shallower depth (where spinel is not stable). The geochemical variability of Deccan Traps silicic rocks reveals an origin from a mantle-derived parental mafic melt that evolved via the assimilation and fractional crystallization (AFC) process to form the silicic exposures, which is typical of silicic volcanism in other global CFBs.

Two million years of evolution of the southern central andes retroarc, Payenia Volcanic Province, Argentina, from the study of the Cerro Nevado Volcanic Complex

New K–Ar ages, major and trace element analyses, and Sr and Nd isotopic data for the Cerro Nevado Volcanic Complex (CNVC) coupled with those previously published allow us to better document the hot thermal anomaly which affected the upper mantle beneath the Andean back-arc Payenia Volcanic Province and generated alkaline magmatism. These data, along with previously published ones from this and neighbor volcanic centers, suggest that this anomaly stagnated there, during at least the last 2 million years. Geochemical features from the CNVC basaltic magmas indicate that they were sourced within an OIB-type mantle with an EMI signature, similar to that underlying the neighboring Auca Mahuida Shield Volcano to the south, and attributed to the rise of a mantle thermal anomaly. We identify at least five events of partial melting and seven eruptive phases from 1.88 to 0.75 Ma. Continental crust contamination in the San Rafael Block crustal basement occurred coupled with fractional crystallization processes, probably in magma chambers and across several cycles, producing the trachybasaltic, trachyandesitic and trachytic magmas of the Cerro Nevado volcanic cone (1.34–1.22 Ma).

Contrasting magmatic evolutions of the Three Sister Volcanoes reflect increased heat flow, crustal melting and silicic magmatism in the Central Oregon Cascade Arc

The Three Sisters stretch, one of the most magmatically active segments of the Oregon Cascade Arc, includes the Three Sisters volcanoes proper (North, Middle and South) as well as the shields and cinder cones of the Mount Bachelor Chain and McKenzie Pass. The Three Sisters record a magmatic transition from fundamentally basaltic andesitic activity in older North Sister products to more diverse activity at Middle Sister, and unusually silicic activity in a Cascade volcano, including rhyolite lava, at South Sister.North Sister magmas reflect magmatic evolution of basaltic andesite through crystal fractionation, mostly of olivine, and incorporation of crustal melts. Middle Sister, although mostly composed of basaltic andesite and andesite, produced dacitic magma through assimilation fractional crystallization processes involving incorporation of silicic melts. South Sister developed a subjacent magma chamber under the southern half of the volcano, where andesitic magmas evolved, dominantly through fractional crystallization, to dacite and rhyolite. A prominent compositional gap at South Sister between dacite and rhyolite and depletion of middle and heavy rare earth elements in rhyolite suggest that amphibole was prominently involved in fractionation processes involving separation of silicic magma from a gabbroic or amphibolitic crystal mush. Silicic magma eventually formed a stagnant cap in the system, where it evolved through small scale fractional crystallization. Rhyolite magma was finally heated to elevated temperatures prior to eruption, presumably through influx of less evolved magma into the base of the stagnant silicic cap and was erupted in late rhyolite lava of Rock Mesa and the Devil's Hill Chain.South Sister lies along strike of the Northwest Rift of Newberry Volcano, which forms the northwestern terminus of the High Lava Plains trend of south-central Oregon. The increased magmatic activity of the Three Sisters stretch and unusual abundance of silicic products, including rhyolite, of South Sister may reflect the arrival and intersection of the High Plains magmatic anomaly with the Cascade Arc.

The off-axis plume–ridge interaction model: Confirmation from the mineral chemistry of Cretaceous basalts of the Ontong Java Plateau

The Ontong Java Plateau (OJP) is the largest known igneous province on Earth. The proposal that its origins involved off-axis plume–ridge interactions remains highly controversial. Here we present new in-situ major (EPMA), trace element (LA-ICP-MS) and Sr isotopic (LA-MC-ICP-MS) characterization of clinopyroxene and plagioclase phases present in OJP tholeiitic basalts from Sites 1183, 1186, 1185, 1187. Site 1187 and Upper Site 1185 have yielded olivine tholeiites containing olivine, Ca-rich augite, Ca-deficient pigeonite, and plagioclase, inferred to be derived from higher degrees of partial melting of dominantly peridotitic mantle and reflecting relatively low crystallization temperatures. Sites 1183 and 1186 and Lower Site 1185 yielded tholeiitic basalts consisting mainly of plagioclase and Ca-rich augite without olivine, interpreted to originate from lower degrees of partial melting of pyroxenite- and peridotite-derived melts with relatively high clinopyroxene and plagioclase crystallization temperatures. Site 1187 and Upper Site 1185 plagioclase, clinopyroxene, and equilibrium melts have much lower REE contents but slightly higher in-situ Sr isotopic ratios compared to those phases at Sites 1183 and 1186 as well as Lower Site 1185. Sites 1186 and 1187 plagioclases and clinopyroxenes display normal zoned textures which are attributed to the process of fractional crystallization and extensive magma mixing beneath the heterogeneous mantle source. In-situ Sr isotopic disequilibrium between plagioclase phenocrysts and plagioclase clusters further indicates an enriched compositional heterogeneity. Due to the strong tensile forces expected at the spreading ridge, the OJP off-axis mantle plume is inferred to be drawn towards the ridge axis, leading to shifts in mineral compositions, degrees of partial melting, and crystallization temperatures inferred for the volcanics of Sites 1183, 1186, 1185, and 1187 as a function of distance from the spreading ridge. The enriched invariability of in-situ Sr isotopic compositions is likely due to the relatively long half-life of the radiogenic elements. These mineral chemistries are consistent with off-axis ridge–plume interaction.

Intrusive Magmatism Strongly Contributed to the Volatile Release Into the Atmosphere of Early Earth

AbstractMagmatic volatile release was crucial for the build‐up and composition of the early atmosphere and thus for the origin and evolution of life. Even though the rate of intrusive to extrusive magma production on Earth is high, intrusive volatile release is commonly neglected in studies modeling the composition of the early atmosphere. This can mainly be attributed to the solubility of volatiles like H2O and CO2. The solubility is increasing with depth and thus is thought to prevent the release of these volatiles. However, due to the accumulation of H2O and CO2 within the melt during fractional crystallization, the solubility can be exceeded even at greater depths. In our study, we developed a novel numeric model to quantify the amount of H2O and CO2 that can be released from an intrusive system if we consider the process of fractional crystallization. Additionally, we take the possibility of melt ascent and the formation of hydrous minerals into account. According to our simulations, the release of H2O and CO2 from an intrusive magma body is possible within the whole lithosphere. However, the release strongly depends on the initial volatile budget, the formation of hydrous phases, the depth of the intrusion and the buoyancy of the melt. Considering all these factors, our study suggests that about 0%–85% H2O and 100% CO2 can be released from mafic intrusions. This renders the incorporation of the intrusive volatile release mandatory in order to determine the volatile fluxes and the composition of early Earth's atmosphere.