The formation of large igneous provinces (LIPs) seems to require a series of conditions conducive to massive dolomitization; however, the specific mechanisms remain unclear. Based on petrographic, geochemical and fluid-inclusion microthermometry analyses, this study identifies the types of dolomites in the Maokou Formation (Middle Permian) in the eastern Sichuan Basin. It analyses the related dolomitization fluids and discusses the influencing mechanisms of the Emeishan large igneous provinces (ELIP) on dolomitization at different stages. Three types of dolomite were identified: (1) fabric-retentive, very finely crystalline, planar-s to nonplanar-a dolomite (MD1); (2) fabric-retentive, fine to medium crystalline, planar-s to nonplanar-a dolomite (MD2); and (3) medium to coarsely crystalline, nonplanar (saddle) dolomite (SD). MD1 exhibited dark-red luminescence under cathodoluminescence and rare earth element patterns that are similar to those of lime mudstone, indicating that its dolomitization fluid was medium-salinity Permian seawater. MD2 displayed orange-red luminescence under cathodoluminescence, with a high Ba content (mean: 397.5 ppm) and positive Eu anomalies (mean: 2.34), indicating that its dolomitization fluid was a mixture of shallowly buried seawater and a small amount of external hydrothermal fluid. SD showed red luminescence under cathodoluminescence, with the highest Ba content (mean: 9820.4 ppm) and significant positive Eu anomalies (mean: 3.165), indicating that its dolomitization fluid was mainly ELIP-related hydrothermal fluid with a small amount of residual seawater. Before the ELIP activity, no dolomite occurred in the study area. In the initial stage of ELIP activity, upwelling of the Emeishan mantle plume led to a shift in sedimentary patterns, promoting the occurrence of reflux dolomitization and the formation of MD1. In the intermediate stage of ELIP activity, the activation of basement faults promoted the occurrence of thermal convection dolomitization, resulting in MD2 formation. In the peak stage of ELIP activity, large-scale eruption of Emeishan basalt led to the development of hydrothermal dolomitization, forming SD. This study provides an approach to the investigation of the influences of LIPs on dolomitization processes.
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