Moderate SiO2 Research Articles

Tectonic-magmatic setting for Early Cretaceous low-sulfidation epithermal gold deposits in the Xing–Meng Orogenic Belt: Constraints from zircon U–Pb and Hf isotopic data of wulaga deposit, NE China

The Xing–Meng Orogenic Belt hosts an amount of low-sulfidation epithermal gold deposits. However, the tectonic-magmatic setting remains problematic, which hinders understanding the factors that control the gold endowment in the region. Wulaga deposit is the largest low-sulfidation epithermal gold deposit in the northeastern Xing–Meng Orogenic Belt. Gold mineralization occurs in the crypto-explosive breccia zone of subvolcanic granodiorite porphyry. Zircon U–Pb ages of three granodiorite apophyses and previous pyrite Rb–Sr dating (113.8 ± 4.4 Ma) indicate granodiorite porphyry and gold mineralization was coeval. The ore-related granodiorite porphyry is moderate SiO2, high-K calc-alkaline, and metaluminous, suggesting an I-type granite. Moreover, Wulaga granodiorite porphyry displays low initial 87Sr/86Sr ratios and positive εNd(t) values with TDM2(Nd) of 799.7–897.4 Ma and εHf(t) values with TDM2(Hf) of 652–785 Ma, indicating that it was derived from partial melting of the Neoproterozoic juvenile mafic lower crust. Ti-in-zircon thermometry, medium–high Sr/Y ratio, high Ba/La, and fO2 value indicate that Wulaga granodiorite porphyry formed at relatively low temperatures (∼700 °C), rich water, and high fugacity within the stability field of garnet in the juvenile lower crust. Combined with ore-related tectonic-magmatic activities in the Wulaga, Dong'an, and Sandaowanzi gold deposits, the Early Cretaceous low-sulfidation epithermal gold deposits in the Xing–Meng Orogenic Belt were formed from magmatic-hydrothermal events triggered by mutual interaction between post-orogenic lithospheric extension related to the closure of the Mongol-Okhotsk Ocean and arc-back extension associated with rollback of the Paleo-Pacific Ocean plate. These data indicate the potential existence of the Early Cretaceous epithermal gold deposits that are related to the contemporaneous igneous activity.

Petrogenesis of Permian to Triassic granitoids from the East Kunlun orogenic belt: implications for crustal evolution during oceanic subduction and continental collision

ABSTRACT The study of Permian-Triassic granitoids, which widely occur within the East Kunlun Orogenic Belt (EKOB), is relevant for a better understanding of the evolution of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean and regional crustal evolution. This study focuses on the Permian-Triassic granitoids from the Nagengkangqieer region, east segment of EKOB. The Late Permian granodiorite (ca. 252 Ma) shows high-K calc-alkaline and metaluminous features with moderate SiO2 (63.31–67.04 wt.%), relatively high Mg# (48–52), and low Sr/Y ratios. The granodiorite is enriched in large ion lithophile elements (LILEs) and depleted in high field strength elements (HFSEs) and shows enriched isotopic compositions (εNd (t) = −5.53 to −5.14, εHf (t) = −5.6 to −1.1). These geochemical characteristics imply that the Late Permian granodiorite was derived from a mixing source of mafic lower crust and mantle materials (<30%). The Middle Triassic porphyritic monzogranite (ca. 239 Ma) and monzogranite (ca. 239 Ma) are high-K calc-alkaline to shoshonitic and weak peraluminous with high SiO2 (70.58–76.54 wt.%) contents and low Mg# (19–36). They display relatively higher FeOT/MgO ratios, lower P2O5 contents, and more enriched isotopic compositions (εNd (t) = −7.87 to −6.71, εHf (t) = −13.7 to −1.2) than those of granodiorites. These findings indicate that the Triassic granites belong to fractionated granites derived from partial melting of the lower continental crust. In combination with the results of this study and the spatio-temporal distribution of regional magmatic, metamorphic, and sedimentary events, we conclude that Late Permian granodiorite formed in a subduction setting, whereas the Middle Triassic granites were formed in a syn-collision setting. Closing of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean occurred in the Middle Triassic (ca. 240 Ma). Additionally, only a small proportion of juvenile materials (<30%) was involved in magmatism and contributed to continental crustal growth during Late Permian subduction, whereas crustal reworking dominated regional magmatism and resulted in a higher crustal maturity.

Late‐Triassic high‐Mg andesite from the Zhangguangcai Range (NE China): Hydrous melting of depleted mantle wedge in active continental margin

The Zhangguangcai Range is located in the junction zone of the Palaeo‐Asian and Palaeo‐Pacific tectonic regimes; Mesozoic igneous rocks in this area are considered to have been formed in an active continental margin, which is related to the western subduction of the Palaeo‐Pacific Plate beneath the Eurasian continent. However, the nature of the mantle wedge and related melting mechanism remains unclear. This paper reports zircon U–Pb data, whole‐rock geochemistry, and zircon Lu–Hf isotope for a Late‐Triassic high‐Mg andesite in the southern part of the Zhangguangcai Range. Zircons from the andesite yield a concordant 206Pb/238U age of 218.6 ± 3.3 Ma, which is contemporary with the diorite in the study area. The Lengshan high‐Mg andesite is characterized by moderate SiO2 (57.30–60.15 wt.%), high Mg# (61–67), Al2O3 (15.05–17.35 wt.%), (La/Yb)N (16.9–22.4), and variable Na2O/K2O (1.06–1.59). Its insignificant Eu negative anomalies (Eu/Eu* = 0.88–0.99) and high Sr/Y (68.4–96.4) may prove the existence of garnet or amphibole in the residual melt, where feldspar is more or less absent. The andesite is enriched in Rb, Ba and depleted in Nb, Ta, Ti, and other high‐field‐strength elements, with Nb/Ta ratios of 14.6–17.2, U/Th ratios of 0.28–0.31. In combination with its depleted zircon Lu–Hf isotopic compositions (e.g., εHf(t) = −0.48 to +13.1), it is proposed that the high‐Mg andesite formed by hydrous melting of the mantle wedge, which was metasomatized by slab‐derived adakitic melts. The subsequent assimilation of ancient crust results in the formation of some zircons with negative Eu*/Eu anomalies (0.05–0.1) and εHf(t) values (−13.8 to −18.5), which is approved by the relative evolved whole‐rock Sr–Nd isotopic compositions.

Petrogenesis and Tectonic Implications of the Triassic Granitoids in the Ela Mountain Area of the East Kunlun Orogenic Belt

The East Kunlun Orogenic Belt is located in the western part of the Central Orogenic Belt of China, with a large number of Triassic igneous rocks parallel to the Paleo-Tethys ophiolite belt, which provides a large amount of geological information for the tectonic evolution of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean. The granitoids studied in this paper are located in the Ela Mountain area in the eastern part of the East Kunlun Orogenic Belt. Zircon U-Pb dating results show that these different types of granitoids were crystallized in the Triassic. The 247.5 Ma porphyritic granites from Zairiri (ZRR) displayed calc-alkaline I-type granite affinities, with the zircon εHf(t) values being mainly positive (−0.5 to + 3.8, TDM2 of 1309–1031 Ma), indicating that they are derived from the partial melting of the juvenile crust and mixed with ancient crustal components. The 236.8 Ma Henqionggou (HQG) granodiorites and 237.5 Ma Daheba (DHB) granodiorites are high-K calc-alkaline I-type granite, and both have mafic microgranular enclaves (MMEs), showing higher and more varied Mg# (39.73–62.73), combined with their negative Hf isotopes (εHf(t) = −2.6 to −1.6, TDM2 = 1430–1369 Ma), suggesting that their primary magmas were the products of partial melting of the Mesoproterozoic lower crust that mixed with mantle-derived rocks. The 236.4 Ma DHB porphyritic diorites showed characteristics of high-K calc-alkaline I-type granitoids, with moderate SiO2 contents, medium Mg# values (40.41–40.65), with the Hf isotopes (εHf(t) = −2.9 to −0.5; TDM2 = 1451–1298 Ma) indistinguishably relative to contemporaneous host granodiorites and MMEs. The petrographic and geochemical characteristics indicate that the porphyritic diorites are the product of well-mixed magma derived from the Mesoproterozoic lower crust and lithospheric mantle. Based on the results of this paper and previous data, the chronology framework of Late Permian–Triassic magmatic rocks in the eastern part of the East Kunlun Orogenic Belt was constructed, and the magmatic activities in this area were divided into three peak periods, with each peak representing an extensional event in a particular tectonic setting, for example, P1 (slab roll-back in subduction period; 254–246 Ma), P2 (slab break-off in transition period of subduction and collision; 244–232 Ma), P3 (delamination after collision; 230–218 Ma).

Petrogenesis and geodynamic significance of Late Triassic mafic microgranular enclaves and its host granodiorite in the Shuanghu area, central Qiangtang

The genesis of Late Triassic granitoids in the central Qiangtang is significant for deducing the evolution of the Palaeo‐Tethys Ocean in Qiangtang Block. Herein, we present a comprehensive study of zircon U–Pb ages, whole‐rock geochemistry and zircon Lu–Hf isotopes for the mafic microgranular enclaves (MMEs) and host granodiorites from the Shuanghu area, in order to evaluate their petrogenesis and geodynamic implications. New zircon U–Pb dating show identical formation ages for host granodiorites (207.1 ± 2.2 Ma and 206.6 ± 3.8 Ma) and MMEs (205.4 ± 2.9 Ma and 209.2 ± 2.2 Ma). The Shuanghu granodiorites contain amphibole and biotite and are characterized by moderate SiO2 (64.74–66.40 wt%) and K2O contents (2.48–3.62 wt%) as well as low A/CNK (0.69–1.00), indicating I‐type granite affinity. Its enriched zircon Hf isotopes (εHf(t) = −12.04 to −5.09) indicate that they were derived from the ancient mafic lower crust. The MMEs have a similar mineral assemblage, emplacement ages, trace elemental and zircon Hf isotopic compositions with the host granodiorites, indicating the cognate origin. These MMEs represent autoliths captured by latter ascending host magmas in the middle‐upper magma chamber. The highly variable Mg# (37–53), Cr (16.9–190 ppm) and Ni (5.71–67.2 ppm) in the Shuanghu MMEs and host granodiorites indicate that the mantle‐derived magma provided not only the heat but also the mafic components. In combining with previous studies, we suggest that the Shuanghu granodiorites and MMEs were formed in the post‐collision stage, which were caused by the asthenosphere upwelling related to the slab breakoff.

Carboniferous variation of crustal thickness and subduction angles in Eastern Tianshan, NW China: evidence from the petrogenesis of the magmatic rocks in the Aqishan–Yamansu Belt

ABSTRACT New geochronological and geochemical data were presented for the Early Carboniferous basaltic to andesitic volcanic rocks and Late Carboniferous granitic intrusions in the Aqishan–Yamansu Belt of Eastern Tianshan, NW China. Zircon U–Pb dating indicates that the andesite and granite were emplaced at 330 Ma and 321 Ma, respectively. The andesitic rocks of the Yamansu Formation (FM) display subalkaline to calc-alkaline characteristics with moderate SiO2, relatively high Mg# values, and low Cr, Co and Ni, indicating an origin from mantle-derived melts. Their relatively low εNd(t) values (–0.02 ~ +0.61) and old TDM ages (TDM = 1.39–1.40 Ga) suggest a mantle source with addition of old crustal materials. Their high Rb/Y and Ba/La, low Nb/Y and Th/Yb ratios elucidate that the magma sources were probably metasomatized by slab-derived fluids. Besides, the high Th and low Ce/Th and Ba/Th ratios of the andesites suggest a contribution from subducted sediment–derived melts. Integrated with the depletion in high field strength elements and enrichment in light rare earth elements (LREEs), we suggest that the Yamansu andesites were formed by partial melting of relatively enriched mantle wedge metasomatized by both subducted sediment-derived melts and fluids. The basalts of the Tugutublak Formation (TF) have high MgO, Mg# (56–58) and εNd(t) (+5.9 ~ +6.3) values with enriched in LREEs and depleted in Nb–Ta–Ti anomalies, implying an arc setting. Their high Ba/Th, Ba/La and low Th/Ta, Th/Yb ratios suggest that the slab-derived fluids were involved. The basaltic andesites of the TF have higher SiO2, lower Mg# (48–50), Cr, Ni and εNd(t) (+1.21) values than the basalts of this formation, indicating that they were evolved from the basaltic magma. Therefore, the Carboniferous volcanic rocks in this study indicate that the Aqishan–Yamansu Belt was in a subduction background. The granites intruding into the TF show typical characteristics of I-type granite. Their highly positive εHf(t) values (+14 ~ +17) suggest a significant contribution from juvenile basaltic lower crust. Moreover, changes in the Dy/Yb and Ho/Yb ratios of Late Paleozoic felsic igneous rocks in the Aqishan–Yamansu Belt imply that the crust underwent four periods of thickening and thinning, which were likely triggered by the variation of subduction angles.

Geochemistry and petrogenesis of ca. 2.1 Ga meta-mafic rocks in the central Jiao–Liao–Ji Belt, North China Craton: A consequence of intracontinental rifting or subduction?

As one of the global 2.0–1.8 Ga continent-to-continent collisional orogens that welded the Supercontinent Columbia or Nuna, the Jiao–Liao–Ji Belt (JLJB) in the North China Craton was formed through ca. 1.90–1.85 Ga collision between the Longgang and Nangrim Blocks. However, the tectonic process before the final collision remains highly controversial. Some people insisted that during 2.2–2.1 Ga the JLJB was in a back-arc area of a subduction regime. In contrast, some other people proposed that ca. 2.2–2.1 Ga represented a continental rifting stage instead of subduction. To tackle this controversy, the coeval mafic rocks and their petrogenesis become the key hints. Therefore, we implemented synthetic petrological, geochronological, geochemical, zircon Hf and the whole rock Sr–Nd isotopic studies for the newly mapped meta-mafic rocks from the central JLJB. Zircon U–Pb dating results revealed that they were emplaced at ca. 2133–2099 Ma and experienced subsequent collision-related regional metamorphism at ca. 1879–1852 Ma. Geochemically, they are sub-alkaline basalts and contain moderate SiO2 and high concentrations of MgO, total Fe2O3, Ni, and V. They are enriched in light rare earth elements (LREE) and large-ion lithophile elements (LILE; e.g., Ba, Sr and K), and are depleted in heavy rare earth elements (HREE) and high field strength elements (HFSE; e.g., Nb and Ta). Geochemical features show largely affinity to the enriched mid-ocean ridge basalts. Isotopic results show low 87Sr/86Srt ratios (low to 0.676869), positive εNd(t) values (+0.50 to +2.45) and εHf(t) values (+0.04 to +9.81). The parental magmas of ca. 2.1 Ga meta-mafic rocks were most likely derived from the partial melting of the depleted asthenospheric mantle with contamination of crustal material. Associated with the regionally developed A-type and adakitic granites, as well as the bimodal volcanic rocks throughout the JLJB, we proposed that the Longgang and Nangrim Blocks were initially broken apart through an intracontinental rifting that was triggered by delamination of an old thickened lithosphere at ca. 2.2–2.1 Ga, before they were finally collided with each other at ca. 1.90 Ga.

Age and petrogenesis of late Mesozoic intrusions in the Huoluotai porphyry Cu-(Mo) deposit, northeast China: Implications for regional tectonic evolution

Multi-stage igneous rocks developed in the recently discovered Huoluotai Cu-(Mo) deposit provide new insights into the controversial late Mesozoic geodynamic evolution of the northern segment of the Great Xing’an Range (NSGXR). Zircon U-Pb dating suggests that the monzogranite, ore-bearing granodiorite porphyry, diorite porphyry, and granite porphyry in the deposit were emplaced at 179.5 ± 1.6, 148.9 ± 0.9, 146.1 ± 1.3, and 142.2 ± 1.5 Ma, respectively. The Re-Os dating of molybdenite yielded an isochron age of 146.9 ± 2.3 Ma (MSWD = 0.27). The Jurassic adakitic monzogranite and granodiorite porphyry are characterized by high SiO2 and Na2O contents, low K2O/Na2O ratios, low MgO, Cr, and Ni contents, low zircon εHf(t) values relative to depleted mantle, and relatively high Th contents. They were produced by partial melting of a subducted oceanic slab, with involvement of marine sediments in the magma source and limited interaction with mantle peridotites during magma ascent. The Late Jurassic diorite porphyry is characterized by moderate SiO2 contents, high MgO, Cr, and Ni contents, and positive dominated εHf(t) values, indicating it was produced by partial melting of a subduction-modified lithospheric mantle wedge and underwent limited crustal contamination during magma ascent. The early Early Cretaceous adakitic granite porphyry shows high SiO2 and K2O contents and K2O/Na2O ratios, low MgO, Cr, and Ni contents, enriched Sr–Nd isotopic compositions, and slightly positive zircon εHf(t) values, suggesting it was produced by partial melting of thickened mafic lower crust. The NSGXR experienced a tectonic history that involved flat-slab subduction (200–160 Ma), and tearing and collapse (150–145 Ma) of the Mongol–Okhotsk oceanic lithosphere. The period of magmatic quiescence from ca. 160 to 150 Ma was a response to flat-slab subduction of the Mongol–Okhotsk oceanic lithosphere. Crustal thickening in the NSGXR (145–133 Ma) was due to the collision between the Amuria Block and the Siberian Craton.

Triassic trachytic volcanism in the Bangong–Nujiang Ocean: geochemical and geochronological constraints on a continental rifting event

AbstractThe Bangong–Nujiang suture zone (BNSZ), which separates the Gondwana-derived Qiangtang and Lhasa terranes, preserves limited geological records of the Bangong–Nujiang Ocean (BNO). The timing of opening of this ocean has been hotly debated due to the rare and complicated rock records in the suture zones, which span over 100 Ma from Carboniferous–Permian to Early Jurassic time, based on geological, palaeontological and palaeomagnetic data. A combination of geochemical, geochronological and isotopic data are reported for the Riasairi trachytes, central BNSZ, northern Tibet, to constrain its petrogenesis and tectonic settings. Zircon U–Pb dating by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) yields mean ages of 236 Ma. Geochemically, these rocks are high-K calc-alkaline with moderate SiO2 (59.1–67.5 wt%) and high K2O + Na2O (8.1–11.6 wt%) contents. They are enriched in light rare earth elements with negative Eu anomalies, and show enrichments in high-field-strength elements with positive ‘Nb, Ta’ anomalies, similar to the intra-continental rift setting-related felsic lavas from the African Rift System. The high positive zircon ϵHf(t) and bulk ϵNd(t) values, as well as high initial Pb isotopes, imply a heterogeneous source involving both asthenospheric and subcontinental lithospheric mantle. The field and geochemical data jointly suggest that the Riasairi trachytes within the Mugagangri Group were formed in a continental rift setting. We interpret that the continental-rift-related Riaisairi trachytic lavas as derived from the southern margin of the Qiangtang terrane, implying that the BNO would have opened by Middle Triassic time, well after the commonly interpreted break-up of the Qiangtang terrane from Gondwana.

Carbonate Mineralogy in Mantle Peridotites of the Atlantis Massif (IODP Expedition 357)

AbstractPetrographic and major element investigations of carbonates from seven drill cores recovered during IODP Expedition 357 on the Atlantis Massif (AM) provide information on the genesis of carbonate minerals in the oceanic lithosphere. Textural sequences and mineralogical assemblages reveal three distinct types of carbonate occurrences in ultramafic rocks that are controlled by (a) fluid composition and flow, (b) temperature, and (c) the presence of mafic intrusions. The first occurrence of carbonate consists of different generations of calcite that formed syn‐ to post‐ serpentinization. These calcites formed at temperatures between 30 and 184°C (based on clumped isotope thermometry) and from a fluid influenced by interaction with mafic intrusions. The second occurrence consists of magnesite, dolomite, calcite, and aragonite veins that also formed syn‐ to post serpentinization. These carbonates formed at temperatures between ambient and 196°C, from fluids with highly variable FeO, MnO, and SrO composition and Mg/Ca ratios, but overall high CO2 and moderate SiO2 concentrations. High FeO (3.3 wt%) and MnO (7.3 wt%) contents indicate high temperatures, high water/rock ratios, and low oxygen fugacity for both carbonate assemblages. The third occurrence consists solely of aragonite veins formed at low temperatures (&lt;9°C) within the uplifted serpentinized peridotites. Major element analyses suggest that aragonite precipitated from seawater, which experienced little interaction with the basement. Combining these results, we propose a model that positions different carbonate occurrences in a conceptual framework considering mafic domains in the peridotites and fluid heterogeneities during progressive exhumation and alteration of the AM.

Southward subduction of the Bangong–Nujiang oceanic lithosphere triggered back-arc spreading: Evidence from the Late Jurassic Kongnongla magnesian andesites in central Tibet

We report zircon UPb age and Hf isotope and whole-rock major and trace element and SrNd isotope data for magnesian andesites from the Kongnongla area, central Tibet. These Kongnongla magnesian andesites are directly in contact with high-Nb basalts and are part of the Baila–Lanong ophiolitic mélanges. Zircon UPb dating shows that the magnesian andesites crystallized at ca. 158 Ma. The samples are characterized by moderate SiO2 (59.3–61.7 wt%), high MgO (3.74–4.69 wt%), Fe2OT3 (4.95–5.30 wt%), Ba (570–1320 ppm), and Th (6.5–7.0 ppm) contents, and low (87Sr/86Sr)i (0.704491–0.704857), and Sr/Y (17.5–24.0) ratios. The samples also exhibit enrichments of compatible elements, such as Cr (110–150 ppm) and Ni (24.7–36.5 ppm), and display fractionated rare earth element (REE) patterns with light REE enrichment relative to heavy REEs. Negative zircon εHf(t) values (−10.8 to −15.7) and whole-rock εNd(t) values (−3.85 to −6.12) of the Kongnongla magnesian andesites are similar to those of DaruTso magnesian andesites, Hohxili high magnesian andesites, and sediments of the Mugagangri Group. We propose that the Kongnongla magnesian andesites were formed by the interaction between slab fluids, subducting sediments, and overlying mantle under high-temperature–low-pressure conditions. Based on previously published data and the regional geology, we also suggest that these magnesian andesites were generated in a back-arc setting caused by the southward subduction of the Bangong–Nujiang oceanic lithosphere during the Late Jurassic.

Petrochemical constrains on the origin and tectonic setting of mafic to intermediate dykes from Tikar plain, Central Cameroon Shear Zone

The Tikar plain is located on the Cameroon Central Shear Zone. It is also part of the North Equatorial Pan-African Belt. It is formed of granitoids intruded in places by mafic and intermediate dykes. The mafic dykes are essentially banded gabbros composed of plagioclases, pyroxenes, amphiboles, biotites and opaques. Their textures range from porphyroblastic to porphyritic. The intermediate dykes are monzonites and monzodiorites and are characterized, respectively, by cataclastic and mylonitic textures. The minerals identified are amphiboles, potassium feldspar, pyroxenes, epidotes, sphenes and opaques. Seritization reaction is mostly present on the mafic and intermediate dykes, while chloritization is much more pronounced on the intermediate dykes. The Tikar plain dykes are high-k calc-alkaline to shoshonitic. They are characterized by low to moderate SiO2 content (42.08–61.96 wt%), low to high TiO2 (0.47–2 wt%) and low Ni (1.48–99.18 ppm) contents. The mafic dykes show fractional trends with negative anomalies of Zr, U and P and positive Rb, Ba, Ta, Pb and Sr in multi-element diagrams, while the intermediate dykes present negative anomalies of Nb, Ta, Zr, Sr P and Ti and relative positive anomalies of Rb, Ba and Pb. The rare-earth elements (REE) patterns show positive Eu anomalies for the mafic dykes and negative anomalies for the intermediate dykes. The REE spectrum of all the dykes shows enrichment in LREE with relatively flat HREE, which can indicate arc magmatism. In the Zr–Ti/100–Sr/2 diagram, the mafic dykes plot in the island arc tholeiite and calc-alkaline basalt fields. The Th, Nb and LREE concentrations indicate that the subducted lithosphere with crustal component contributed to generation of the intermediate dykes of the Tikar plain. The geochemical characteristics of the mafic to intermediate dykes suggest their derivation from a various degree of partial melting in the garnet spinel facies, probably between depths of 80 and 100 km. The collision between the Central African Fold Belt and the northern edge of the Congo craton resulting in crustal thickening, sub-crustal lithospheric delamination and upwelling of the asthenosphere may have been the principal process in the generation of the intermediate dykes in the Tikar plain. The magma for the mafic and intermediate dyke would have migrated through the faults network of the Central Cameroon Shear Zone before crystallizing in the granito-gneissic basement rocks.

High-temperature melting of different crustal levels in the inner zone of the Emeishan large igneous province: Constraints from the Permian ferrosyenite and granite from the Panxi region

The Late-Permian Emeishan mantle plume event caused large-scale flood basalts and related mafic-ultramafic layered mafic intrusions in the inner zone of the Emeishan large igneous province (ELIP). However, the related crustal magma response of this mantle plume event in the inner zone of the ELIP remains poorly understood. In this contribution, we report contemporaneous (~259 Ma) ferrosyenite and A-type granite in the inner zone of the ELIP, and their chronological and geochemical data suggest simultaneous crustal melting at different depths. The ferrosyenites display moderate SiO2 (60.14 to 63.58 wt%), high Fe2O3T (4.28 to 8.52 wt%) and alkaline (Na2O + K2O = 10.91 to 12.75 wt%) contents. In combination with their positive zircon εHf(t) values (+1.5 to +12.9), we propose that the ferrosyenites were formed by high temperature melting of Fe-rich refractory juvenile lower crust at H2O-poor condition, which was induced by underplating of the high-temperature mantle plume. Rhyolite–MELTS modeling results show that ~7% melting of ferrodiorite-like source at ~1120 °C and 8 kbar can produce similar compositions with least evolved ferrosyenite under a relatively dry condition. The Baima granites have high SiO2 (70.58 to 74.26 wt%) contents and 10000*Ga/Al ratios (3.00 to 3.28), indicating the affinity to A-type granites. Their evolved zircon εHf(t) values (−8.1 to −0.6) indicate an evolved crustal source region. Rcrust modeling indicates that ~9% partial melting of ancient granodiorite-like crustal material under low pressure condition (4 kbar) can produce the observed granitic compositions. Considering the close spatial and temporal relationship between ferrosyenites and A-type granites, we propose that the emplacement of ferrosyenitic magma resulted in low-degree partial melting at a relatively shallow crustal level, responsible for the formation of the A-type granites. In summary, this study highlights the significant impact on crustal magma response to the high-temperature mantle plume event in the inner zone of ELIP.

Magmatic-hydrothermal processes and controls on rare-metal enrichment of the Baerzhe peralkaline granitic pluton, inner Mongolia, northeastern China

Although it is well known that many peralkaline granite plutons show enrichment of the rare earth elements (REE) and other high field strength elements (HFSE), the magmatic-hydrothermal processes that concentrate these elements are still poorly understood. The Early Cretaceous Baerzhe pluton in northeastern China provides an ideal example of super-enrichment in REE, Zr, Nb and Be in peralkaline granites. Three kinds of granites are identified, namely, the barren, the moderately-mineralized and highly-mineralized granites. The barren granite includes hypersolvus porphyritic arfvedsonite granite, transsolvus fine-grained granite, as well as transsolvus pegmatite and aplite; the moderately-mineralized granite includes transsolvus spherulitic granite and coarse-grained granite; and the highly-mineralized granite is subsovlus and contains spherulitic granite and medium-grained granite. Replacements of arfvedsonite by aegirine and alkaline feldspar by albite occurred in the moderately-mineralized granite, whereas an extensive alteration assemblage of Fe-Ti oxides and albite laths developed in the highly-mineralized granite. The barren porphyritic arfvedsonite granite samples show moderate SiO2 (63.20–68.00 wt%), high total alkali (Na2O + K2O = 9.94–10.23 wt%), and variable and high total FeO contents (7.56–13.45 wt%). The barren fine-grained granite, as well as moderately-mineralized spherulitic granite and coarse-grained granite, are characterized by high SiO2 (73.21–75.92 wt%), high total FeO (1.04–5.44 wt%) and total alkali (Na2O + K2O = 8.72–9.85 wt%) concentrations with A/CNK = 0.80–0.99 and NK/A = 1.00–1.24, indicative of peralkaline affinity. In comparison, the highly-mineralized spherulitic granite and medium-grained granite have more variable SiO2 (72.10–79.50 wt%) and lower total alkali (K2O + Na2O = 4.40–8.70 wt%) contents. All these samples have positive and uniform εNd(t) varying from + 2.25 to + 3.28, along with restricted 206Pb/204Pb (18.107–18.464) and 207Pb/204Pb ratios (15.497–15.549), showing that they were probably derived from a common juvenile melt. When compared with the barren fine-grained granite, the spherulitic granite contains more microcline and albite but less perthite, suggesting the spherulitic granite formed in a more evolved magma. The amounts of spherulites are in direct proportion to the intensity of hydrothermal alteration and mineralization. It is suggested that the spherulite structure was a product of low nucleation rates due to the high volatile content of the late-stage evolved magma. Extensive magma differentiation leads to the exsolution of F- and Cl-rich hydrothermal fluids which are enriched in large amount of REE and HFSE elements. Furthermore, intense fluid-rock interaction occurred in the most advantage stage of magmatic-hydrothermal evolution and led to extensive alteration as well as the formation of associated REE-Zr-Nb-Be mineralization in the large Baerzhe deposit.

Triassic-Jurassic Granitoids and Pegmatites from Western Kunlun-Pamir Syntax: Implications for the Paleo-Tethys Evolution at the Northern Margin of the Tibetan Plateau

Abstract The Western Kunlun-Pamir-Karakorum (WKPK) at the northwestern Tibetan Plateau underwent long-term terrane accretion from the Paleozoic to the Cenozoic. Within this time span, four phases of magmatism occurred in WKPK during the Early Paleozoic, Triassic-Jurassic, Early Cretaceous, and Cenozoic. These voluminous magmatic rocks contain critical information on the evolution of the Tethys Oceans. In this contribution, we provide field observations, petrography, ages, whole-rock elemental and Sr-Nd isotopic compositions, and zircon in situ Lu-Hf isotopes of the Triassic-Jurassic granitoids and pegmatites from the Dahongliutan in Western Kunlun and Turuke area at the Pamir Plateau, in an attempt to constrain their petrogenesis and to decipher a more detailed Paleo-Tethys evolution process. The Dahongliutan pluton is composed of diorites (ca. 210 Ma) and monzogranite (ca. 200 Ma). The diorites have moderate SiO2 (56.77–62.22 wt. %), variable Mg# (46–49), and low Cr (34.4–50.6 ppm) and Ni contents (7.0–14.5 ppm). They show LREE-enriched patterns (LaN/YbN=4.3–17), with variable negative Eu anomalies (0.63–0.91) and variable ratios of Nb/La (0.27–0.97). Isotopically, the diorites display enriched whole-rock εNdt (-5.43 to -7.67) and negative to positive zircon εHft values (-6.6 to 0.4). They were most likely generated by melting of a subduction-modified mantle source with subsequent assimilation and fractional crystallization. The Turuke monzogranites (ca. 202–197 Ma) have S-type granite characteristics and are characterized by high SiO2 (70.36–76.12 wt. %) and A/CNK values (1.19–1.36), variable LREE-enriched patterns (LaN/YbN=8.87–14.40), negative Eu anomaly (0.07–0.56), relatively uniform whole-rock εNdt (-10.49 to -11.22), and variable negative zircon εHft values (-10.7 to -1.3). They were probably generated by muscovite-dehydration melting of dominantly metapelitic sources. The widespread pegmatites (ca. 195 Ma) at the Dahongliutan area record an extensional setting after the collision of Karakorum with the South Kunlun-Tianshuihai terrane. Combining our new data with the previous studies, we propose a divergent double-sided subduction of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean (243–208 Ma) and a gradual closure of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean from east (ca. 200 Ma) to west (ca. 180 Ma) to explain the Triassic-Jurassic tectono-magmatism in the WKPK.

Petrological evidence for magma recharge and mixing beneath the Ma'anshan monogenetic volcano of Xiaogulihe in Northeast China

Geochemical compositions of rocks from monogenetic volcanoes in intraplate settings are commonly used to constrain their mantle source and melting processes; however, the subsequent magmatic evolution of such small-volume volcanic systems is commonly ignored. Here we present petrographic observations, mineral chemistry, whole-rock major and trace element data, and thermodynamic modeling for Quaternary ultrapotassic rocks from the Ma'anshan monogenetic volcano of Xiaogulihe in Northeast China. We use these data to evaluate the crystallization conditions and recharge and mixing processes that the magmas have experienced within the crust. The Ma'anshan volcanic products are predominantly phonotephrite and tephriphonolite. These rocks have small variations in geochemical composition with moderate SiO2 (47.29–49.4 wt%), high total alkali contents (K2O + Na2O = 9.85–11.87 wt%), and high K2O/Na2O ratios (3.18–4.21). Two types of assemblages were identified in these ultrapotassic rocks: Type-1 antecrysts (olivine and leucite) and hybrid crystals (clinopyroxene, formed by incongruent replacement of antecrysts) and type-2 autocrysts (olivine and leucite). For the type-2, normally zoned olivines, Ni decreases and Mn increases more rapidly with decreasing %Fo than for oceanic basalts, which can be explained by abundant olivine and leucite fractionation in strongly alkaline melts at shallow crustal levels (<200 MPa). The type-1 olivines are reversely zoned and their cores have lower Fo, CaO, and Ni, and higher Mn, than their rims. The type-1 leucites are sieve-textured, partially resorbed, and rimmed by type-1 olivines. The type-1 clinopyroxenes have diopsidic compositions, forming monomineralic crystal clusters. Although the type-1 antecrystic and hybrid crystals are rare, their presence provides robust evidence for magma recharge and mixing beneath the Ma'anshan monogenetic volcano. This study shows that magmas erupted in monogenetic volcanic fields may experience complex processes within the crust despite their small volumes and relatively uniform compositions, which is important to consider in the interpretation of the construction, evolution, and longevity of their magma plumbing systems.

Origin and Tectonic Implications of Post-Orogenic Lamprophyres in the Sulu Belt of China

Lamprophyre dykes that crosscut different types of ultrahigh pressure (UHP) metamorphic rocks are widely distributed in the Triassic Sulu UHP orogenic belt. Although abundant studies have been performed on these dykes, their origin and petrogenesis remain topics of controversy. This study presents the results of a detailed field-based study of petrology, whole-rock geochemistry and zircon U-Pb and Lu-Hf isotopes on lamprophyre dykes exposed in the central Sulu UHP zone, aiming at shedding lights on their petrogenesis and providing clues on the geological evolution of eastern continental China during the Cretaceous. The lamprophyres are typically porphyritic, with phenocrysts dominantly composed of amphibole and clinopyroxene set in a lamprophyric matrix. The dykes have moderate SiO2 (47.70 wt.%–60.44 wt.%), variably high MgO (2.58 wt.%–8.28 wt.%) and Fe2O3T (4.88 wt.%–9.26 wt.%) contents with high Mg# of 49–66. Geochemically, they have enriched light rare earth element (REE) and flat heavy REE patterns ((La/Gd)N=5.14–10.56; (Dy/Yb)N=1.43–1.54) with negligible Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu*=0.83–1.10), and they show enrichment in large ion lithophile elements (e.g., Ba and K) but depletion in high-field strength elements (e.g., Nb, Ti and P). In-situ zircon U-Pb geochronology reveals that the lamprophyres have concordant ages of 120–115 Ma, demonstrating that the dykes emplaced in the Early Cretaceous. These zircons have eHf(t) values ranging from −26.0 to −11.0. Inherited zircons that occur in the dykes are dated to be Neoproterozoic, in line with the protolith ages of their host (i.e., the UHP rocks). An integration of these data allows us to propose that the lamprophyres were generated during the Cretaceous, by melting of subcontinental lithospheric mantle-derived metasomatite with enriched chemical compositions underneath the North China Craton. The metasomatite was formed mainly by peridotite-fluid/melt reactions, with the fluids/melts mainly liberated from subducted Yangtze continental crust during the Triassic. Regional extension, lithospheric thinning and mantle upwelling caused by rollback of the subducted paleo-Pacific plate is considered to account for the generation of the lamprophyres as well as the extensive arc-like magmatic rocks in eastern continental China during the Early Cretaceous.

Discovery and Geological Significance of Early Carboniferous High‐Mg Diorite in the Balikun Area, Eastern Tianshan

AbstractThe granodiorites, monzogranites and diorites are widely developed in the Balikun area of Eastern Tianshan Orogen. Of which, LA–ICP–MS zircon U‐Pb isotopic dating from the diorites revealed that they were emplaced at 327∼333 Ma, representing an important period of magmatism in the Early Carboniferous. Geochemically, they are characterized by moderate SiO2 (51.33–62.48 wt%), high but variable MgO (2.04–11.16 wt%, average 5.35), higher Mg# (40–73) and TiO2 (0.67–1.29 wt%), Na2O/K2O (1.39–2.95) as well as variable Cr (2.49–675 ppm) and Ni (1.31–174 ppm), showing a geochemistry similar to those of high‐Mg diorites or sanukitoids. In addition, they are enriched in the LILE, poor HFSE with an evident negative Nb anomalies and a REE pattern of moderate fractionator between LREE and HREE without or weak negative Eu anomalies. Their ∊Hf(t) are positive (+3.63–+15.65), suggesting a source from the depleted mantle. In addition, they have high TiO2 and Pb, and large quantity of amphibolite and biotite, indicating that they were most likely derived from the partial melting of depleted mantle metasomatized by the slab‐derived melt under a hydrous condition. Consequently, combined with the contemporary volcanics and granitoids formed in the island arc settings, we proposed that the subduction was continued till Early Carboniferous in the Bogda‐Harlik tectonic belt. After that, wide occurrence of the post‐collisional A‐type granites and mafic‐ultramafic intrusions indicate this tectonic belt entered the post‐collisional environment from Late Carboniferous to Permian.

Water-Flux Melting of Amphibolite in Paleozoic Leucogranite from the North Qinling, Central China: Implication for Post Collisional Setting

Paleozoic granites can provide important insights of crustal differentiation and collision process of the North Qinling terrane. The Dafanggou leucogranites that intruded in the Qinling Complex is a Paleozoic granite with zircon U-Pb age of 404±6.4 Ma (MSWD=0.13,n=9). The leucogranites display moderate SiO2 (68.4 wt.% to 71.7 wt.%) content and high Na2O/K2O (1.07 to 2.74) and Sr/Y (42 to 65) ratios,and low A/CNK (1.04 to 1.08) and Rb/Sr (0.09 to 0.16) ratios. Combined with negative eNd(t) (-10.4) and eHf(t) (-9.35 to -0.25) values and ancient TDM2 ages (1.2 to 1.7 Ga),suggesting the leucogranite are derived from ancient amphibolitic crust in the Qinling Group. In addition,the absence of coeval mafic igneous rocks or mafic enclaves occurred in the Dafanggou pluton and the low TZrn (~700℃) of leucogranites preclude that the leucogranites derived from high temperature dehydration melting of amphibolite. Thus,we propose that the occurrence of the Dafanggou leucogranite indicates that water-flux melting of middle-lower crust in post-collision setting may be a potential model for the genesis of granites in collisional orogenic belt.

Age, depositional environment, and tectonic significance of an Early Neoproterozoic volcano‐sedimentary sequence in the eastern Beishan orogenic belt, southern Central Asian Orogenic Belt

The Beishan orogenic belt, located in the southern Central Asian Orogenic Belt, includes several discrete arc terranes. Here, we report on a newly discovered Early Neoproterozoic volcano‐sedimentary sequence in the eastern Beishan orogenic belt in order to constrain the composition and origin of the Shuangyingshan‐Huaniushan Terrane. The ~766‐m‐thick volcano‐sedimentary sequence is very low‐grade metamorphosed, and characterized by muddy and silty slate with the well‐developed parallel laminations and minor thinly‐bedded limestone in its lower and upper sections, and thick packages of sandstone‐conglomerate and basaltic rocks in the middle section. Lava flow units in the basalt are very common, and the sandstone‐conglomerate exhibits sedimentary structures typical of gravity currents, including erosional and slump features, and Bouma sequences. These features suggest that syn‐sedimentary volcanism occurred and the sequence formed in an active, deep marine environment. The basalt has a zircon U–Pb age of 901 ± 10 Ma, indicating that this sequence formed during the Early Neoproterozoic. Basalt samples have moderate SiO2 (45.33–49.18%), and high TiO2 (1.27–4.04%) contents, Mg# values of 25–48, and plot in the alkali basalt field in the Nb/Y versus Zr/TiO2 diagram, indicative of an evolved alkali basalt magma. They show inclined chondrite‐normalized REE patterns with (La/Yb)N ratios of 4.74–6.53, no pronounced negative Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu* = 0.87–1.22), no obvious negative Zr, Hf, Nb, and Ta anomalies in the primitive‐mantle‐normalized trace‐element diagram, consistent with oceanic island basalts. Considered together, these lithologies resemble those of an oceanic seamount. Our results, and the presence of the previously reported Gubaoquan granitic and mafic rocks (905–865 Ma) that formed in an active continental margin setting and underwent an amphibolite‐facies metamorphism, suggest that the Shuangyingshan‐Huaniushan Terrane may be an accreted terrane that consists of different lithologies with various origins that formed during the Neoproterozoic.