Pb Hf Isotope Research Articles

Zircon U–Pb–Hf Isotopes and Whole-rock Geochemistry of Rhyolite and Tuff from the Harachiyama Formation, North Kitakami Mountains, NE Japan

The Harachiyama Formation comprises Lower Cretaceous volcanic rocks, which are distributed in the eastern margin of the Kitakami Mountains in northeastern Japan. Whole-rock chemical analysis, U–Pb zircon dating and Hf isotope analysis of the Harachiyama Formation were performed to constrain the formation age and the magmatic origin was discussed. The lava and tuff samples of the Harachiyama Formation from the Omoto and Tsukue areas supported island-arc rhyolitic rocks (SiO2 content > 70%), and yielded the weighted mean U–Pb ages of 127.8 ± 3.4 Ma and 129.2 ± 2.6 Ma (2σ), respectively. Eighteen zircon grains from two samples, dated between 141.6 Ma and 123.9 Ma, yielded positive εHf(t) values between +5.0 and +8.7. The U–Pb ages and εHf(t) values are consistent with those of the Kitakami Granitoid reported in previous studies. Therefore, it is suggested that the Early Cretaceous volcanic rocks in northeastern Japan, such as the Harachiyama Formation, have the same magmatic origin as the Kitakami Granitoid.

Petrogenesis and relationship with REE mineralization of the quartz syenite from Chishan and Longbaoshan alkaline complex, southeastern North China Craton: Insights from zircon U–Pb geochronology, element, and Sr–Nd–Pb–Hf isotope geochemistry

Mesozoic alkaline complexes associated with the rare earth element (REE) mineralization are developed in southeastern North China Craton (NCC), and they recorded some important information about the lithospheric thinning and destruction of the NCC. Zircon U–Pb dating results reveal that syenitic rocks from the Chishan and Longbaoshan alkaline complexes were emplaced at ca. 126.2–123.7 Ma. These syenitic rocks have an arc-like affinity with enriched LREEs and LILEs (e.g., Ba and Th) and depleted HFSE (e.g., Nb and Ta). However, they plot within the extensional alkaline–calc-alkaline field in the lg (CaO/(K2O + Na2O)) versus SiO2 discrimination diagram and plot within the fields of the divergent plate and within-plate settings in the NbN versus ThN discrimination diagram, implying an extensional tectonic setting. Thus, we suggest that the syenitic rocks should form in an extensional tectonic settings related to rollback and retreat of the subducting Paleo-Pacific plate. These syenitic rocks have similar Sr–Nd–Pb–Hf isotope compositions ((87Sr/86Sr)i = 0.7062 to 0.7101, εNd(t) = −8.2 to −15.0, εHf(t) = −13.5 to −9.6), which are the same as the enriched subcontinental lithospheric mantle (SCLM) of the NCC. Taking into account not only our new data but also previously published data regarding the evolution of NCC in the Mesozoic, we conclude that the syenitic rocks from the Chishan and Longbaoshan complexes are derived from partial melting of the lithospheric mantle triggered by the Paleo-Pacific plate subduction. Moreover, the geochemical and Sr–Nd–Pb isotopic similarity between the Chishan REE ores, Longbaoshan altered rocks, and the syenitic rocks implied that they are homologous products of Early Cretaceous and that the mineralization shows inheritance to the magmatic hydrothermal evolution.

Petrogenesis of the Helong Granites in Southern Jiangxi Province, China: Constraints from Geochemistry and In Situ Analyses of Zircon U–Pb–Hf Isotopes

The Jinzhuping and Changkeng granites are related to the Helong W–Sn ore field in southern Jiangxi Province, China. Three different phases can be found in the Jinzhuping pluton, and their LA-ICP-MS zircon U–Pb ages are 155.2 ± 0.68 Ma, 154.0 ± 0.56 Ma, and 153.4 ± 0.99 Ma, respectively, indicating two types of granitic rocks. All granites in the Helong ore field have similar geochemical characteristics, they have high contents of SiO2 (73.99 wt.%–77.68 wt.%), and total alkali (7.56 wt.%–8.76 wt.%) and are weakly to strongly peraluminous. They are slightly enriched in HREE and depleted in Eu, Ba, Sr, P, and Ti. Zircon εHf(t) values of the Jinzhuping three granites are from −14.4 to −10.4, from −15.3 to −11.4, and from −18.1 to −10.5, and the Hf TDM model ages range from 1.83 to 2.06 Ga, from 1.89 to 2.14 Ga, and from 1.83 to 2.31 Ga, respectively. Whole-rock geochemistry and Hf isotope analysis indicate that the Helong granites experienced a high degree of differentiation and evolution derived by partial melting of the Late Paleoproterozoic crustal materials, and they formed in a backarc caused by low-angle subduction of the Paleopacific plate.

Provenance shift during Early‐Middle Triassic and its response to the palaeogeographic and tectonic evolution of the southwestern South China Block

To constrain the relationship between the plate boundary dynamics and the basin sedimentation in the southwestern South China Block (SCB), we undertook detrital zircon U–Pb–Hf isotope compositions of the Lower‐Middle Triassic turbidite system in the Youjiang Basin and biotite 40Ar/39Ar thermochronology of the adjacent Lingshan granite. The detrital zircons from Lower Triassic clastic rocks are dominated by age peaks at ~450 Ma and ~1,000 Ma and minor peaks at ~250–260 Ma with negative εHf(t) values (−6.4 to −10.1). In contrast, the Middle Triassic group contains more volcanic fragments and displays a different age peak at ~240–287 Ma with εHf(t) between −11.9 and 13.2 in addition to the former two peaks. These results suggest a potential provenance associated with juvenile and volcanic components in the adjacent region during the Middle Triassic. A summary of the Triassic tectonothermal history suggests that the eastern Youjiang Basin and Yunkai Terrane were uplifted throughout the Triassic, while the northeastern Indochina Block on the west of the SCB was uplifted mainly during the Middle Triassic. Combined with the palaeocurrent reconstruction, we infer that the turbidite system was filled primarily from east to west during the Early Triassic, mainly controlled by the Palaeo‐Pacific plate subduction. Subsequently, the Middle Triassic turbidite system involved juvenile and volcanic components from the eastern SCB and northeastern Indochina Block in addition to the Early Triassic provenance, as a result of dual impact from the Palaeo‐Pacific plate subduction and Indochina Block collision.

Nature and evolution of the lower crust under central Spain: Inferences from granulite xenoliths (Calatrava Volcanic Field-Spanish central system)

So far, the nature and evolution of the lower crust under central Spain have been constrained mainly on the basis of a heterogeneous suite of granulite xenoliths from the Spanish Central System (SCS). In recent years, ultramafic volcanics from the Calatrava Volcanic Field (CVF) have also provided deep-seated crustal xenoliths which have not been studied in detail. Our data, combining mineral, whole-rock and isotopic geochemistry with U–Pb–Hf isotope ratios in zircons from the CVF and SCS xenoliths, highlight the felsic composition of the lower crust under central Iberia. A number of the Calatrava xenoliths represents Variscan igneous protoliths, which are a minor population in the SCS, and were likely formed by crystallisation of intermediate and felsic melts in the lower crust during the Variscan orogeny (leucodiorite protolith age of 314 ± 3 Ma and leucogranite protolith age of 308 ± 2.5 Ma). U–Pb data of metamorphic zircons show that granulite-facies metamorphism mainly occurred from 299 to 285 Ma in both areas. These ages are slightly younger than those of granitic intrusions that could be genetically related to the granulitic residue, which points to a main role of U–Pb isotope resetting in lower crustal zircons during HT or UHT conditions. The zircon U–Pb–Hf isotopic ratios support the idea that the lower crust in central Iberia consists mainly of Ordovician–Neoproterozoic metaigneous and metasedimentary rocks associated with the Cadomian continental arc of northern Gondwana. These rocks provide evidence of mixing between juvenile magmas and an enriched crustal component, ultimately extracted from an Eburnean crust. Other more evolved components present in detrital zircons are likely related to recycling of Archean crust derived from North Africa cratonic terranes.

Mantle magmatism, metamorphism and anatexis: evidence from geochemistry and zircon U–Pb-Hf isotopes of Paleoproterozoic S-type granites, Khondalite Belt of the North China Craton

ABSTRACT S-type granites constitute an important component of the Paleoproterozoic Khondalite Belt in the North China Craton. Here we present results from petrography, geochemistry and isotope geochronology on the porphyritic garnet-bearing syenogranite and garnet-bearing monzogranite samples in the Jining-Liangcheng area. The geochemical characteristics of these samples indicate formation through partial anatexis of the khondalites, with heat and material input from mantle-derived magma. Geochemical similarities between the porphyritic garnet-bearing syenogranite, garnet-bearing monzogranite, and metapelitic gneiss suggest their broad affinity. Sensitive high-resolution ion microprobe zircon U–Pb dating revealed that the S-type granites formed at ca. 1.92–1.90 Ga and were subsequently metamorphosed at ca. 1.85 Ga. The ca. 1.92–1.91 Ga porphyritic garnet-bearing syenogranite shows zircon εHf(t) values of −1.94–+3.38 with two-stage Hf crustal model ages (TDM2) ages of ca. 2.42–2.59 Ga. The 1.91–1.90-Ga garnet-bearing monzogranites show zircon εHf(t) values ranging from −4.36 to +0.38, with TDM2 ranging from ca. 2.57 to ca. 2.82 Ga. The geochemical isotopic compositions suggest that the porphyritic garnet-bearing syenogranite and garnet-bearing monzogranite originated from the partial melting of pre-existing crust of heterogeneous compositions with the addition of mantle-derived material. On the basis of our results, combined with geological data on the Paleoproterozoic structural evolution of the Khondalite Belt, we assume that the timing of the metamorphism and anatexis in the Jining–Liangcheng area is correlated with a regional metamorphism and mantle-derived magmatism.

Miocene transition from an active continental margin to a trench–arc–basin system in Northeast Asia: Constraints from compositional variations of basaltic rocks in the Russian Far East

The timing and mantle processes of the Cenozoic transition from an active continental margin to a trench–arc–basin system in northeast Asia remain controversial. Here we present major and trace element, and Sr–Nd–Pb–Hf isotope data for Cenozoic basaltic rocks from the Russian Far East, which provide new constraints on the deep mantle processes during the transition. The basaltic rocks formed mainly in four stages. The results show that middle Eocene basaltic rocks have arc-like geochemical features, such as depletions in high-field-strength elements, indicating an origin by partial melting of a mantle wedge that had been modified by slab-derived fluids and recycled sediments. Early and middle Miocene basaltic rocks also have arc-like geochemical features, and have relatively low contents of fluid-mobile elements and high contents of fluid-immobile elements, as compared with the middle Eocene basaltic rocks. This suggests that these magmas were derived by the melting of previously melted lithospheric mantle that had been modified by slab-derived fluids. In contrast, late Miocene basalts have ocean island basalt-like geochemical features, such as enrichments in high-field-strength elements, indicating their derivation by partial melting of the asthenospheric mantle. The temporal variations in the mantle sources of the Cenozoic basaltic rocks in the Russian Far East, along with an abrupt change in Sr Nd isotopic compositions at ca. 20 Ma, demonstrate that the transition from an active continental margin to a trench–arc–basin system in northeast Asia occurred at ca. 20 Ma. • The basalts in the Russian Far East formed mainly at ca. 45, 20, 13, and 7 Ma. • The temporal variations in the sources of the Cenozoic basalts were determined. • Transition from active continental margin to trench-arc-basin occurred at 20 Ma. • The rollback of Pacific Plate and trench retreat control the tectonic transition.

Late Jurassic syn-rift deposition in the Flemish Pass basin, offshore Newfoundland: Evidence for Tithonian magmatism and Appalachian-Variscan sediment sources from quantitative mineral and detrital zircon U–Pb-Hf isotope studies of Mizzen discovery strata

Quantitative mineral and detrital zircon U–Pb-Hf isotope studies of syn-rift sandstone units in the Mizzen F-09 delineation well, northern Flemish Pass basin, were conducted to test competing models for Grand Banks paleogeography and Late Jurassic development of the Newfoundland-Iberia magma-poor rift system. Bodhrán formation (informal nomenclature) strata yield ca. 145–155 Ma detrital zircon grain populations that indicate a late Tithonian (146 ± 1 Ma) maximum depositional age for syn-rift fluvial to tide-modulated fluvial strata in Mizzen F-09 and evidence for Grand Banks rift magmatism to have occurred throughout the Late Jurassic. Late Tithonian tectonic subsidence and magmatism in the northern Flemish Pass basin region were coincident with the onset of necking processes and extreme crustal thinning within the Newfoundland-Iberia rift system. The chondritic to superchondritic Hf isotope compositions of Late Jurassic detrital zircon grains indicate repeated partial melting of lithospheric mantle during rift development, perhaps along master detachment faults or transfer zone systems. Bodhrán formation strata have chemically unstable minerals (plagioclase, potassium feldspar, garnet, muscovite, rutile, staurolite) and late Paleozoic to Paleoarchean detrital zircon age populations that together show provenance from Appalachian-Variscan basement and cover assemblages. A positive correlation between the abundance of metamorphic minerals and unique-aged, mid-Permian (ca. 271–280 Ma) detrital zircon grains from post-Variscan igneous rocks indicate Iberian provenance contributions to Bodhrán formation strata. The new results from Mizzen F-09 are consistent with models for WNW-directed fluvial discharge into the northern Flemish Pass basin and sediment derivation from upper Paleozoic foreland basin or cover assemblages located west of Variscan front, some which may have been stripped off Beothuk Knoll, Flemish Cap, or adjacent highlands.

Qaidam block situated in the interior of Rodinia and Gondwana: New magmatic and metamorphic constraints

Some Precambrian microcontinental blocks, generally embedded in the Phanerozoic orogenic belts, are keys to constrain supercontinent assembly and dispersal as well as play an important role in the ocean-continent transition. The Qaidam block is considered as a Precambrian continental fragment surrounded by Paleozoic orogens. The previous reconstruction models commonly placed the Qaidam block in the peripheries rather than the interiors of the Rodinia and Gondwana supercontinents due to the lack of two global events at 1.2–1.0 Ga and 0.65–0.5 Ga. In this study, we present new zircon U–Pb–Hf isotope data and whole-rock geochemical data for the high-grade orthogneisses and low-grade metavolcanic rocks in the western Qaidam block. Zircon U–Pb dating displays three age groups at approximately 0.55 Ga, 0.75 Ga, and 1.1 Ga. The Ediacaran to early Cambrian age in zircon rims from orthogneisses is interpreted as a metamorphic origin, consistent with the timing of the latest Ediacaran–early Cambrian ultrahigh temperature metamorphism recorded in Mg-Al and mafic granulites. The late Mesoproterozoic age in magmatic zircons of orthogneisses and the middle Neoproterozoic age of metavolcanic rocks reflect two magmatic events. Combining with wide magmatic and metamorphic records of 1.0–0.9 Ga in the Qaidam block, we suggest that the Qaidam block experienced a prolonged subduction–collision process during the late Mesoproterozoic to early Neoproterozoic, followed by a 0.8–0.75 Ga anorogenic event related to the continental rifting environment within an already assembled Rodinia. These data show that the Qaidam block likely maintained a long-term connection with East Gondwana from the late Mesoproterozoic to the latest Cambrian and occupied interior positions in Rodinia and Gondwana rather than in their periphery. It probably did not separate from East Gondwana until the latest Ediacaran–early Cambrian.

Geochemistry and zircon U–Pb–Hf isotopes of granodiorites in the northern Alxa area: implications for the Middle–Late Devonian tectonic evolution of the southern Central Asian Orogenic Belt

Geochemistry and zircon U–Pb–Hf isotopes of granodiorites in the northern Alxa area: implications for the Middle–Late Devonian tectonic evolution of the southern Central Asian Orogenic Belt

Temporal variations in the geochemistry of Mesozoic mafic–intermediate volcanic rocks in the northern Great Xing'an Range, Northeast China, and implications for deep lithospheric mantle processes

Identifying the composition of the recycled materials in the lithospheric mantle is crucial for establishing links between mantle geochemical ‘reservoirs’ and deep mantle geodynamic processes. However, studies that focus on deep mantle processes under multiple subduction tectonic regimes have been absent. In this paper, we present 40 Ar/ 39 Ar age, whole-rock geochemical, and Sr–Nd–Pb–Hf isotope, zircon Hf-O isotope, and in situ plagioclase Pb isotope data for Mesozoic mafic–intermediate volcanic rocks in the northern Great Xing'an Range, northeast China. These and published data are used to constrain the deep processes that occurred in the lithospheric mantle during the Mesozoic, in the context of the evolution of the Mongol–Okhotsk Ocean and whether subduction of the Paleo-Pacific Plate affected the formation of volcanic rocks in the western part of northeast China. The Mesozoic mafic–intermediate volcanic rocks in the northern Great Xing'an Range can be divided into three stages: Early Jurassic (~180 Ma), Late Jurassic (~155 Ma), and late Early Cretaceous (~120 Ma). These rocks are mainly basalt, basaltic andesite, andesite, and trachyandesite. The Mesozoic mafic–intermediate volcanic rocks have SiO 2 = 47.34–60.00 wt%, TFe 2 O 3 = 4.73–11.63 wt%, and Mg # = 26–66, belong to the medium- to high-K calc-alkaline series, exhibit enrichment in light rare earth elements and large-ion lithophile elements, exhibit depletions in heavy rare earth elements and high-field-strength elements (e.g., Nb and Ta), and have no obvious Eu anomalies. These geochemical features are similar to those of arc igneous rocks. Relative to mid-ocean ridge basalts, these mafic–intermediate volcanic rocks exhibit more radiogenic Sr-Pb and less radiogenic Nd-Hf isotopic compositions. The Th/Yb (1.47–3.43) and (Hf/Sm) PM (0.80–1.15) ratios of the Early Jurassic mafic–intermediate volcanic rocks are much lower than those of the Late Jurassic mafic–intermediate volcanic rocks (Th/Yb = 4.31–5.25; (Hf/Sm) PM = 1.49–2.60), whereas the late Early Cretaceous igneous rocks exhibit large variations in these ratios (Th/Yb = 0.37–14.8; (Hf/Sm) PM = 0.59–2.14). The above features show that: (1) the primary magmas of the mafic–intermediate volcanic rocks were mainly derived by partial melting of depleted lithospheric mantle; (2) the lithospheric mantle was mainly metasomatized by sediment-derived fluids related to subduction of the Mongol–Okhotsk oceanic plate during the Early Jurassic, whereas the mantle source was mainly modified by sediment-derived melts triggered by the collapse of thickened lithosphere after closure of the Mongol–Okhotsk Ocean in the Late Jurassic; and (3) sediment-derived fluids associated with subduction of the Paleo-Pacific Plate caused further enrichment of the lithospheric mantle in the western part of northeast China during the late Early Cretaceous. • J 1 , J 3 and K 1 mafic magmas were derived by melting of depleted lithospheric mantle. • J 1 lithospheric mantle was modified by the Mongol-Okhotsk slab-derived fluid. • J 3 lithospheric mantle was modified by the Mongol-Okhotsk slab sediment-derived melt. • K 1 lithospheric mantle was re-modified by the Paleo-Pacific slab-derived fluid.

Stagnated eclogitic slab-related shoshonitic series volcanic rocks in West Tianshan, Xinjiang, China: Insights from Li-B-Sr-Nd-Hf-Pb isotope and trace element compositions

This study presents major, trace element and Li-B-Sr–Nd–Pb-Hf isotope compositions of post-collisional (Permian) shoshonitic volcanic rocks (SVRs) from West Tianshan, NW China. Zircon U Pb dating indicates that the West Tianshan SVRs were mainly formed in the late Early Permian (272–279 Ma). They include absarokites, shoshonites and banakites, which have variable SiO 2 (46–63 wt%) and K 2 O (2.12–8.12 wt%) contents. They display enrichment in light rare earth elements (LREE) and depletion in heavy rare earth elements. They are enriched in large ion lithophile elements (e.g., La, Rb and Ba) and depleted in high field strength elements (e.g., Nb, Ta and Ti) with slightly negative to negligible Eu anomalies, pronounced positive Pb anomalies and low Nb/U (9.32 ± 6.54), Ce/Pb (0.14–10.0, average 5.03 ± 3.02), relatively high Nb/Ta (16.74 ± 2.72) and Zr/Hf (39.56 ± 6.06) ratios. They have relatively high Li contents (26.0–93.0 ppm) and B contents (6.19–84.7 ppm), and low but variable δ 7 Li (−4.0‰ to +2.4‰). They are characterized by low ( 87 Sr/ 86 Sr) i (0.7045–0.7068), positive ε Nd (t) values (+0.31 − +5.53), relatively low 206 Pb/ 204 Pb (18.16–18.65), 207 Pb/ 204 Pb (15.51–15.63) and 208 Pb/ 204 Pb (37.97–39.22) and positive ε Hf (t) (+5.4 − +12.5). These features consistently suggest a metasomatized enriched mantle source having affinities with an EM I-like reservoir for the SVRs. Source enrichment was generated dominantly by subducted slab related aqueous fluid and altered oceanic crust (AOC) melts. Dehydration modeling of Li and B isotopes and Li, Y, B, Nb trace element fractionation collectively show that the flat, deeply subducted and stagnated, eclogitic slab suffered progressive dehydration(~5–12%)and was distinctly 7 Li-depleted. Based on these compositional features and model calculations, we suggest that West Tianshan SVRs had an enriched mantle source metasomatised by aqueous fluid and hydrous slab melt, and their parental magmas were derived from variable mixing of spinel and garnet peridotite (60Gt:40Sp − 80Gt:20Sp). Taking into account petrogenetic and regional tectonic data, we suggest that the West Tianshan SVRs developed in an intraplate setting during the late Early Permian. It is most probable that the Early Permian Tarim mantle plume, located in the south side of the study area, promoted Early Permian asthenospheric upwelling that resulted in melting of a fossil subduction-enriched source to produce shoshonitic volcanic rocks in the West Tianshan. • Lower δ7Li and wider range are evidently lighter than most volcanic suites world-wide. • A deeply subducted and stagnated eclogitic slab is one end-member of enriched source. • Parental magmas were from mixing of garnet and spinel peridotite (60/40–80/20). • SVRs formed in post-collision transition from subduction-related to intraplate setting.

Early Cretaceous Granitoids Magmatism in the Nagqu Area, Northern Tibet: Constraints on the Timing of the Lhasa–Qiangtang Collision

The timing of the Lhasa–Qiangtang collision following the closure of the Bangong–Nujiang Tethys Ocean has not been well constrained. An integrated study of whole-rock geochemistry and zircon U–Pb–Hf isotopes was carried out for Early Cretaceous quartz diorite-porphyrites and granites from the Yilashan and Amdo areas, northern Tibet. LA–ICP–MS zircon U–Pb dating reveal that the Yilashan and Amdo granitoids were emplaced at ~121–110 Ma. These granitic rocks display selective enrichment of light rare earth elements, large ion lithophile elements (e.g., Rb, U) and Th, but depletion of Sr and high field strength elements (e.g., Nb, Ta, Ti) compared to its neighboring elements. These new data, combined with regional geological setting, show that these igneous rocks were formed under a geodynamic setting of the Lhasa and Qiangtang (–Amdo) collision with oceanic slab breakoff and asthenospheric upwelling. The BNTO had been closed at ~121–110 Ma in the study area. Yilashan-Amdo granitoids roughly yield high (87Sr/86Sr)i ratios and obvious negative εNd(t) and zircon εHf(t) values along with old Nd TDM and zircon Hf TDM2 ages. Together with their variable U–Pb ages, these features indicate a Precambrian “hidden” crustal source beneath the northern Lhasa and Amdo terranes. The YLSS S-type granophyres were derived from partial melting of Paleoproterozoic lower crustal metagraywackes, whereas the YLSZ quartz diorite–porphyrites and the Amdo I- and A-type granites were mainly derived from partial melting of Paleo–Mesoproterozoic lower crustal mafic rocks with a certain amount of addition of mantle-derived melts. Minor amounts of the materials originated from the Amdo orthogneisses may also be involved in the formation of the YLSZ quartz diorite–porphyrites and the Amdo I-type granites. In addition, the Yilashan ophiolite was intruded by the ~112–108 Ma granophyric and quartz diorite–porphyritic intrusions before its final emplacement into the surrounding strata.

Late Jurassic Wenjiaping high Sr/Y granite: A product of partial melting of the Precambrian basement rocks trigged by lithospheric extension in the Songpan–Garzê fold belt, SW China

The Wenjiaping granite, as one of the few Late Jurassic granites in the Songpan–Garzê fold belt (SGFB), can provide an important clue for comprehensively recognizing the tectonic evolution and mineralization of this belt. In this contribution, we present new age and geochemical data for this pluton to better constrain its petrogenesis and discuss the tectonic and metallogenic implications. LA‐ICP‐MS zircon U–Pb dating shows that the Wenjiaping pluton was emplaced at ~159 Ma. The granite contains minor amphibole, and exhibits slightly peraluminous characteristics (A/CNK = 1.03–1.10) and lower initial Sr–Pb isotope ratios than those of the Liwu Group, which excludes the possibility that the Wenjiaping granite was derived from partial melting of the metasedimentary rock‐dominated Liwu Group as previously suggested. Significantly, high Sr/Y (40.93–54.30), LaN/YbN (39.64–56.64), and K2O/NaO (0.77–1.11) ratios, low MgO (0.47%–0.86%) and Cr (25.1–41.3 ppm) contents, and relatively enriched Sr–Nd–Pb–Hf isotope compositions of the Wenjiaping granite are comparable to those of the Late Triassic adakitic rocks in the SGFB, indicating that they probably share a similar source. Combined with previous researches, we propose that large‐scale detachment of the Jianglang dome caused by post‐collisional lithospheric extension in the SGFB‐induced decompressional partial melting of the Precambrian basement rocks can account for the generation of the Late Jurassic Wenjiaping pluton. In addition, our results also suggest that the Wenjiaping pluton probably cannot supply abundant metal elements for the Liwu‐type Cu‐polymetallic deposits in the Jianglang dome, SGFB.

Late Palaeozoic tectonic evolution of the eastern Palaeo-Asian Ocean: new evidence from the early Permian arc magmatic suites in the Kulun region

AbstractLate Palaeozoic igneous rock associations in response to subduction, accretion, and final closure of the eastern Palaeo-Asian Ocean play a significant role in understanding the geodynamic evolution of the southeastern Central Asian Orogenic Belt. Previous studies have identified a Permian arc magmatic belt associated with the southward-dipping subduction of the eastern Palaeo-Asian Ocean along the Solonker–Changchun suture zone. The genetic mechanism and associated geodynamic settings are of great importance in deciphering the evolution of the eastern Palaeo-Asian Ocean. This paper presents zircon U–Pb–Hf isotope and whole-rock geochemical analyses for a suite of magmatic rocks including the early Permian diorite porphyrites (ca. 281.0 Ma), andesites (ca. 276 Ma) and rhyolites (ca. 275 Ma) in the Kulun region. The diorite porphyrites and andesites have high SiO2 and total alkali contents, and low MgO contents and Mg no. values, with enrichments in large ion lithophile elements and depletions in high-field-strength elements. These geochemical characteristics, together with low-Sr and high-Yb contents, a weak concave-upward shape of middle rare earth elements and negative Eu anomalies, suggest that these intermediate igneous rocks were generated by partial melting of amphibolitic lower crust at a crustal depth of 30–40 km. The rhyolites have heterogeneous isotopic compositions, with ϵHf(t) values and TDM2 ages of –20.8 to +0.5 and 3578∼1494 Ma, implying that they were likely derived from partial melting of a mixed source dominated by recycled ancient crust with minor juvenile crustal materials. The rhyolites show potassic affinity with relatively high K2O and very low Na2O, which was attributed to liquid immiscibility of felsic magma and subsequent limited fractional crystallization of plagioclase. The regional igneous associations, metamorphic events, and coeval sedimentary rocks along the Solonker–Changchun suture zone indicate that the early Permian igneous rocks were formed in an active continental arc environment in response to southward subduction of the eastern Palaeo-Asian Ocean.

The origin of Patagonia: insights from Permian to Middle Triassic magmatism of the North Patagonian Massif

AbstractWe conducted a U–Pb–Hf isotope study on zircon crystals from ignimbrites of the Changhsingian to Olenekian (253–248 Ma) Los Menucos Basin in the North Patagonian Massif (NPM), Argentina, in order to evaluate the age and petrogenesis of the magmas. Additionally, a compilation of whole-rock geochemistry and U–Pb–Hf in zircon isotope data for the Permian to Middle Triassic rocks of the NPM, for comparison with our data, was made to assess whether Patagonia would have been an exotic terrane accreted to SW Gondwana during the late Palaeozoic. We interpret the available U–Pb–Hf data to suggest that northern Patagonia experienced eastward arc expansion from the early Permian, about 273 Ma ago. This ∼820 km arc expansion event involved crustal shortening and magmatism with high-silica adakitic affinity, resulting in Hf-isotopic pull-down. At 253 Ma, slab steepening became associated with the coeval emplacement of ignimbrites of the Los Menucos Basin, which involved post-orogenic to intraplate magmatism. During the Middle Triassic, a slab break-off triggered uplift and basaltic underplating, promoting the emplacement of dike swarms with C-type adakitic signature at 246–244 Ma. The Hf isotope data for SW Gondwana for the same period indicate distinct trends that are explained here by differential slab roll-back since the Guadalupian, in a slab-tearing setting. Therefore, Permian to Middle Triassic magmatism is interpreted as having been associated with an eastward-directed proto-Pacific subduction system, which ultimately supports an autochthonous origin for Patagonia.

Zircon U–Pb and sericite Ar–Ar geochronology, geochemistry and S–Pb–Hf isotopes of the Zebuxia Pb–Zn deposit, Tibet, southwestern China

The Zebuxia Pb–Zn deposit is located in southern Tibet and belongs to the western segment of the Northern Gangdese Metallogenic Belt. Based on the characters of deposit geology, geochronology, geochemistry, and S–Pb-Hf isotopes, the genesis and spatial–temporal evolution of the Pb–Zn mineralization in the Northern Gangdese Metallogenic Belt were elucidated. The results of sericite Ar-Ar dating yields an isochron age of 55.2 ± 0.8 Ma, accordant with the zircon U-Pb 54.9 ± 0.4 Ma age obtained from the biotite granite. The biotite granite is of high-K calc–alkaline and metaluminous with I-type affinity. The δ34S values of galena and pyrite range from + 1.3‰ to + 3.5‰ (mean = +2.4‰) and show magmatic origin. Pb isotopic results of galena and pyrite show the 206Pb/204Pb values are 18.611–18.666 (mean = 18.631), 207 Pb/ 204Pb values are 15.654–15.718 (mean = 15.678), 208Pb/204Pb values are 38.982–39.195 (mean = 39.064), representing the orogenic feature with upper crustal source mixed by mantle-derived materials. Based on the comprehensive analyses above, the Zebuxia Pb–Zn deposit belongs to structure–hydrothermal–filling type deposit. Combined with previous studies, we propose that the magmatic intensity determine the mineralization scale of the Pb–Zn deposits, while the nature of ore–related plutons constrain the source of mineralized fluids in the Northern Gangdese Metallogenic Belt. The investigation of the Zebuxia Pb–Zn deposit reveals the western section of the Northern Gangdese Metallogenic Belt has great prospecting potential as well.

Geochronology, geochemistry and Sr–Nd–Pb–Hf isotopes of the alkaline–carbonatite complex in the Weishan REE deposit, Luxi Block: Constraints on the genesis and tectonic setting of the REE mineralization

The Weishan rare earth element (REE) deposit at the southeastern margin of the North China Craton (NCC) is one of the three largest carbonatite-associated REE deposits (CARDs) in China. The REE-bearing carbonatite veins formed within quartz syenite and were controlled by NW- and NE-trending faults. The laser ablation–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (LA–ICP–MS) U–Pb ages of zircons from the quartz syenite and postmineralization granite porphyry dyke samples of the Weishan REE deposit yield weighted mean 206Pb/238U ages of 124.6 ± 1.5 Ma (n = 10, mean squared weighted deviation (MSWD) = 1.7) and 123.3 ± 1 Ma (n = 13, MSWD = 1.7), respectively. The quartz syenite and REE-bearing carbonatite in the Weishan REE deposit have similar Sr–Nd–Pb isotope compositions, and their diagenetic and metallogenetic ages are the same within error, indicating that they have a very close genetic relationship and originate from identical material sources. The Sr–Nd–Pb–Hf isotope compositions of both the quartz syenite and REE-bearing carbonatite are within the range of those of the Mesozoic isotopically enriched subcontinental lithospheric mantle (SCLM) beneath the southeastern margin of the NCC. The Weishan REE-bearing carbonatite is extremely enriched in REEs, Sr, and Ba and has a high Ba/Th ratio. A positive correlation between the REE and Ba contents and a negative correlation between the REE content and Sr/Ba ratio are observed in the Weishan carbonatite, indicating that the excessive enrichment of Sr, Ba, and REEs in the Weishan REE deposit might be related to the involvement of CO2-rich fluids from recycled marine sediments. Taking previous results on the Mesozoic tectonic evolution of the NCC into consideration, we infer that the parent metallogenic magma of the Weishan REE deposit formed by the partial melting of the REE-refertilized and isotopically enriched SCLM, which had been previously metasomatized by melts derived from the subducted South China Block (SCB) during continental collision and by high-flux REE- and CO2-rich fluids derived from subducted marine sediments and oceanic crust during the subduction of the Paleo-Pacific Plate.

Geochronology and Zircon Hf Isotope of the Paleoproterozoic Gaixian Formation in the Southeastern Liaodong Peninsula: Implication for the Tectonic Evolution of the Jiao-Liao-Ji Belt

The Jiao-Liao-Ji belt (JLJB), in the Eastern Block of the North China Craton, is a major Paleoproterozoic orogen and underwent a complicated tectonic evolution during 2.2–1.8 Ga. The Liaohe Group, an important stratigraphic unit in the JLJB, is key to understanding the complex evolution of this belt. In this paper, we present new detrital zircon U–Pb ages and Hf isotope data for meta-sedimentary rocks from the Gaixian Formation in different areas of the JLJB, in addition to compiled data for other formations of the Liaohe Group, to establish the depositional age and source of detrital materials of the group. U–Pb age results show that the age ranges of zircons from the different samples are broadly similar. The youngest zircon group is ca. 2.06 Ga, and the youngest single-grain age is ca. 2.0 Ga, constraining the depositional age of the Gaixian Formation to between 2.0 Ga and the metamorphic age of ca. 1.9 Ga. The zircon age data indicate that the provenance was primarily Archaean basement of the Nangrim Block and Paleoproterozoic volcanic rocks of the Li’eryu Formation. On the basis of the new geochronological data and results from previous studies, it is inferred that the JLJB underwent a successive process of rifting–subduction–collision, with the different formations of the Liaohe Group being deposited in different stages from rift to passive continental margin and then to active continental margin. Zircon Hf isotope data from the JLJB and adjoining Longgang and Nangrim blocks indicate that a major crustal growth event occurred at 2.9–2.5 Ga, followed by crustal growth and intense recycling of ancient crust at ca. 2.2 Ga.

Evolution of the Continental Crust in the Northern Tibetan Plateau: Constraints From Geochronology and Hf Isotopes of Detrital Zircons

To investigate the evolution of the continental crust in the northern Tibetan Plateau, detrital zircon U–Pb geochronology and Hf isotopes analysis were performed on two fluvial sand samples from North Qaidam (the Yuka and Shaliu rivers). A total of 443 detrital zircon U–Pb ages and 244 Hf isotopic results were obtained and reveal that the South Qilian, North Qaidam, and East Kunlun terranes show affinity to the western Yangtze Block. Age distributions of detrital zircons from the Yuka River cluster mainly in two age intervals of 1,000–700 and 480–400 Ma. The corresponding εHf(t) values are mostly negative, with depleted two-stage Hf model ages (TDM2) of 2.1–1.6 Ga. In contrast, age data for the Shaliu River fall in the ranges of 1,000–700, 460–380, and 260–200 Ma, with TDM2 ages of 2.0–1.6 and 1.6–1.2 Ga. In addition, zircons with Neoproterozoic ages from both river samples possess common Paleoproterozoic TDM2 ages (2.0–1.6 Ga, with a peak of 1.8–1.7 Ga), indicating that the South Qilian, North Qaidam and East Kunlun terranes were probably part of the same Neoproterozoic continent. The East Kunlun and North Qaidam terranes are inferred to include Mesoproterozoic continental crust (1.6–1.0 Ga), suggesting differences in crustal evolution between the East Kunlun–North Qaidam and Qilian terranes. Phanerozoic magmatism in these three terranes was sourced mainly from the recycling of ancient continental crust with minor contributions from the juvenile crust.