Peak Temperature Conditions Research Articles

High Temperature Reduced Granulite-Facies Nature of Garnetites in the Khabarny Mafic–Ultramafic Massif, Southern Urals: Evidence from Fluid and Mineral Analyses

Abstract High-grade metamorphic rocks underlying the intrusive layered dunite–pyroxenite–gabbronorite East-Khabarny Complex (EKC) are integrated in the complex Khabarny mafic–ultramafic Massif in the Sakmara Allochthon zone in the Southern Urals. These rocks are associated with high-temperature shear zones. Garnetites from the upper part of the metamorphic unit close to the contact with EKC gabbronorite are chemically and texturally analysed to estimate their formation conditions and fluid regime. Fluids provide crucial information of formation conditions and evolution of these garnetites during high-grade metamorphism, and are preserved in channel positions within Si6O1812- rings of cordierite, and in fluid inclusions in quartz and garnet. Minerals and fluid inclusions of the garnetites are studied with X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, electron microprobe analyses, Raman spectroscopy, and microthermometry. The garnetites mainly consist of garnet (up to 80 vol. %), cordierite and quartz. Accessory minerals are rutile, ilmenite, graphite, magnetite and cristobalite. Granulite-facies metamorphic conditions of the garnetites are estimated with the garnet–cordierite–sillimanite–quartz geothermobarometer: temperatures of 740 to 830 ˚C and pressures of 770–845 MPa. The average garnet composition in end-member concentrations is 48·5 mole % almandine (±3·9), 34·7 mole % pyrope (±3·3), 10·3 mole % spessartine (±1·1), 1·8 mole % grossular (±1·5), and 1·5 mole % andradite (±1·5). The cordierite electron microprobe analyses reveal an average Mg2+ fraction of 0·79 ± 0·01 in the octahedral site. Relicts of a strong positive temperature anomaly (up to 1000 ˚C) are evidenced by the preservation of cristobalite crystals in garnet and the high titanium content of quartz (0·031 ± 0·008 mass % TiO2) and garnet (0·31 ± 0·16 mole % end-member Schorlomite-Al). The fluid components H2O, CO2, N2 and H2S are detected in cordierite, which correspond to a relatively oxidized fluid environment that is common in granulites. In contrast, a highly reduced fluid environment is preserved in fluid inclusions in quartz nodules, which are mono-fluid phase at room temperature and composed of CH4 (>96 mole %) with locally minor amounts of C2H6, N2, H2S and graphite. The fluid inclusions occur in homogeneous assemblages with a density of 0·349 to 0·367 g·cm-3. The CH4-rich fluid may represent peak-temperature metamorphic conditions, and is consistent with temperature estimation (∼1000 ˚C) from Ti-in-garnet and Ti-in-quartz geothermometry. Tiny CH4-rich fluid inclusions (diameter 0·5 to 2 µm) are also detected by careful optical analyses in garnet and at the surface of quartz crystals that are included in garnet grains. Graphite in fluid inclusions precipitated at retrograde metamorphic conditions around 300–310 ± 27 ˚C. Aragonite was trapped simultaneously with CH4-rich fluids and is assumed to have crystallized at metastable conditions. The initial granulite facies conditions that led to the formation of a cordierite and garnet mineral assemblage must have occurred in a relative oxidized environment (QFM-buffered) with H2O–CO2-rich fluids. Abundant intrusions or tectonic emplacement of mafic to ultramafic melts from the upper mantle that were internally buffered at a WI-buffered (wüstite–iron) level must have released abundant hot CH4-rich fluids that flooded and subsequently dominated the system. The origin of the granulite-facies conditions is similar to peak-metamorphic conditions in the Salda complex (Central Urals) and the Ivrea–Verbano zone (Italian Alps) as a result of magmatic underplating that provided an appearance of a positive thermal anomaly, and further joint emplacement (magmatic and metamorphic rocks together) into upper crustal level as a high temperature plastic body (diapir).

Structural setting of a transpressive shear zone: insights from geological mapping, quartz petrofabric and kinematic vorticity analysis in NE Sardinia (Italy)

AbstractThe Posada–Asinara Line is a crustal-scale transpressive shear zone affecting the Variscan basement in northern Sardinia during Late Carboniferous time. We investigated a structural transect of the Posada–Asinara Line (Baronie) with the aid of geological mapping and structural analysis. N-verging F2 isoclinal folds with associated mylonitic foliation (S2) are the main deformation features developed during the Posada–Asinara Line activity (D2). The mineral assemblages and microstructures suggest that the Posada–Asinara Line was affected by a retrograde metamorphic path. This is also confirmed by quartz microstructures, where subgrain rotation recrystallization superimposes on grain boundary migration recrystallization. Crystallographic preferred orientation data, obtained using electron backscatter diffraction, allowed analysis of quartz slip systems and estimation of the deformation temperature, vorticity of flow and rheological parameters (flow stress and strain rate) during the Posada–Asinara Line activity. Quartz deformation temperatures of 400 ± 50 °C have been estimated along a transect perpendicular to the Posada–Asinara Line, in agreement with the syn-kinematic post-metamorphic peak mineral assemblages and the late microstructures of quartz. The D2 phase can be subdivided in two events: an early D2early phase, related to the metamorphic peak and low kinematic vorticity (pure shear dominated), and a late D2late phase characterized by a lower metamorphic grade and an increased kinematic vorticity (simple shear dominated). Palaeopiezometry and strain rate estimates associated with the D2late deformation event showed an intensity gradient increasing towards the core of the shear zone. The D2early deformation developed under peak temperature conditions, while the D2late event was active at shallower structural levels.

Pre-Alpine high-pressure metamorphism in the Gemer unit: mineral textures and their geodynamic implications for Variscan Orogeny in the Western Carpathians

We report mineral textures of retrogressed eclogites from the gneiss–amphibolite complex, which is represented by a series of isolated bodies that were thrusted over the greenschist-facies Rakovec group in the Gemer unit (Western Carpathians). Peak pressure and temperature conditions of about 2.0 GPa and 650 °C are estimated for the eclogite-facies assemblage (omphacite, garnet and rutile). The eclogites show strong amphibolite-facies re-equilibration that is characteristic for the rest of gneiss–amphibolite complex rocks. Pressure and temperature conditions for both eclogite and subsequent amphibolite-facies stages are comparable with those reported from the retrogressed eclogites in the Vepor and Tatra units. The underlying Rakovec group rocks indicate greenschist-facies conditions, but relicts of high-pressure (blueschist facies) metamorphism are also preserved. The Pre-Alpine age of the eclogite-facies metamorphism in the gneiss–amphibolite complex and blueschist-facies metamorphism in the Rakovec group is confirmed by the presence of their pebbles in the overlaying upper Carboniferous conglomerates. The origin of eclogites and blueschists in the Gemer unit and their relationship to eclogites in the Vepor and Tatra units are discussed with respect to the subduction zone along which they originated, but also in relation to the high-pressure rocks occurring along the European Variscan Belt. As the whole Gemer unit underwent Alpine metamorphism, the retrogressed eclogites and associated gneisses were also studied to clarify possible degree of this metamorphic overprint in the gneiss–amphibolite complex rocks.

Paleoproterozoic oceanic subduction in the North China Craton: Insights from the metamorphic P–T–t paths of the Chicheng Mélange in the Hongqiyingzi Complex

How and when modern-style plate tectonics started in the Earth’s history is one of the most important scientific issues. The Chicheng mélange in the north margin of North China Craton (NCC) presents a new insight into the Paleoproterozoic cold oceanic subduction and the beginning of modern-style plate tectonic regime. The mélange comprises blocks of retrograde eclogites, amphibolites and peridotites in a matrix of metasediments. The retrograde eclogites mainly contain garnet, amphibole and symplectites consisting of fine-grained plagioclase, clinopyroxene and amphibole. Three metamorphic stages were derived, involving the prograde, peak, and post-peak decompression stages. The P–T conditions for the prograde and peak stages range from ~17 kbar/660 °C to >22/~750 °C kbar based on mineral composition isopleths in P–T pseudosections, involving core–to–mantle increasing pyrope and decreasing grossular in garnet and Ti content in amphibole. The post-peak decompression is proposed to be isothermal under melt (fluid)-absent conditions, recorded a pressure of 8–11 kbar on the basis of symplectite assemblages. For the amphibolites pre-peak heating, peak temperature, and post-peak cooling metamorphic stages were derived. They experienced anataxis during this overprinting metamorphism when heated to above the solidus. The peak temperature conditions are constrained to be 5–7 kbar/780–830 °C on the basis of the contours of the maximum Ti in amphibole and anorthite of plagioclase in P–T pseudosections. Zircon U–Pb dating for the selected samples and a summary of published age data reveal that the eclogite facies metamorphism may have occurred at 1.85–1.80 Ga, and the eclogitic rocks exhumed to a lower crust level during or after subduction to be overprinted by multi-phase thermal events at ~1.66 Ga and 460–420 Ma with undefined conditions, and at 360–270 Ma under amphibolite facies. The eclogite facies metamorphism from the Chicheng mélange shows a geothermal gradient of ~9 °C/km, pointing to a cold oceanic subduction at late Paleoproterozoic that occurred along the northern margin of the NCC. The overprinting metamorphism with anataxis recognized from the amphibolites represents a low-pressure type with a geothermal gradient of ~35 °C/km, which was interpreted to occur at 360–270 Ma governed by extension.

Monazite as a monitor for melt‐rock interaction during cooling and exhumation

AbstractGranulite facies cordierite–garnet–biotite gneisses from the southeastern Reynolds Range, central Australia, contain both orthopyroxene‐bearing and orthopyroxene‐free quartzofeldspathic leucosomes. Mineral reaction microstructures at the interface of gneiss and leucosome observed in outcrop and petrographically, reflect melt‐rock interaction during crystallization. Accessory monazite, susceptible to fluid alteration, dissolution and recrystallization at high temperature, is tested for its applicability to constrain the chemical and P–T–time evolution of melt‐rock reactions during crystallization upon cooling. Bulk rock geochemistry and phase equilibria modelling constrain peak pressure and temperature conditions to 6.5–7.5 kbar and ~850°C, and U–Pb geochronology constrains the timing of monazite crystallization to 1.55 Ga, coeval with the Chewings Orogeny. Modelling predicts the presence of up to 15 vol.% melt at peak metamorphic conditions. Upon cooling below 800°C, melt extraction and in situ crystallization of melt decrease the melt volume to less than 7%, at which time it becomes entrapped and melt pockets induce replacement reactions in the adjacent host rock. Replacement reactions of garnet, orthopyroxene and K‐feldspar liberate Y, REE, Eu and U in addition to Mg, Fe, Al, Si and K.We demonstrate that distinguishing between monazite varieties solely on the basis of U–Pb ages cannot solve the chronological order of events in this study, nor does it tie monazite to the evolution of melt or stability of rock‐forming minerals. Rather, we argue that analyses of various internal monazite textures, their composition and overprinting relations allow us to identify the chronology of events following the metamorphic peak. We infer that retrograde reactions involving garnet, orthopyroxene and K‐feldspar can be attributed to melt‐rock interaction subsequent to partial melting, which is reflected in the development of compositionally distinct monazite textural domains. Internal monazite textures and their composition are consistent with dissolution and precipitation reactions induced by a high‐T melt. Monazite rims enriched in Y, HREE, Eu and U indicate an increased availability of these elements, consistent with the breakdown of orthopyroxene, garnet and K‐feldspar observed petrographically. Our study indicates that compositional and textural analysis of monazite in relation to major rock‐forming minerals can be used to infer the post‐peak chemical evolution of partial melts during high‐ to ultrahigh‐temperature metamorphism.

Tectonic Mode Switches Recorded at the Northern Edge of the Australian Plate During the Pliocene and Pleistocene

AbstractWe report new data from medium‐high grade metamorphic rocks found at the northern margin of the Lengguru Fold Belt in West Papua. The study involved a systematic analysis of cross‐cutting structures to establish the relative timing of deformation, together with isotopic dating to define when these tectono‐thermal events occurred. These data show that the region underwent multiple episodes of deformation within the last six million years. Metamorphic mineral growth was associated with the development of ductile shear zones. This episode occurred during a phase of crustal stretching associated with the formation of a metamorphic core complex. Metamorphic zircon growth at 4.9 to 5.3 Ma was documented in two of the dated samples. These data are interpreted to postdate the peak pressure and temperature conditions of the phase of regional crustal stretching. The shear fabrics associated with the metamorphic core complex were later overprinted by at least two generations of folds. The change in mode from crustal extension to shortening reflects a tectonic mode switch. A subsequent mode switch is documented by numerous brittle extensional faults that cross‐cut the earlier formed ductile fabrics. We interpret ca. 0.75–1.51 Ma (U–Th)/He age data to reflect cooling associated with the later stages of crustal shortening (marked by folds) or the later extensional unroofing of the peninsula. This work demonstrates that an orogen can record multiple tectonic mode switches within several million years. These outcomes should be considered in studies of ancient orogens where analytical uncertainties associated with isotopic dating may mask short‐lived mode switches.

Precipitation behavior and its effect on mechanical properties in weld heat-affected zone in age hardened FeMnAlC lightweight steels

In this study, we investigated the effect of precipitation during the thermal cycles of age hardening and the welding process in hot rolled austenitic FeMnAlC lightweight steel. After solution treatment, samples were prepared under different age hardening conditions, which was conducted at a temperature of 550 °C in a furnace. Samples representing heat affected zones (HAZs) with three different peak temperature conditions were prepared via a Gleeble simulator. For microstructural analyses, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were carried out. The mechanical characteristics were investigated by tensile, hardness, and cryogenic Charpy impact tests. The results showed that precipitation behavior in the lightweight steels had specific influence in mechanical properties in age hardening and welding process. The age hardening effect was shown with increased tensile strength with loss of ductility. In the solution treated specimen, increased hardness appeared in HAZ compared to the base steel, while HAZ softening occurred in every age-hardened specimen. In the cryogenic Charpy impact test, all of the samples except the solution-treated base steel showed negligible energy absorption with inter-granular fracturing. The trends of the experimented HAZ mechanical properties revealed that the precipitation behavior of κ-carbide was strongly related to the overall mechanical properties. Moreover, we found that the welding process removed the hardening effect of aging as a result of drastic κ-carbide dissolution in the high-temperature HAZ regardless of age hardening conditions. The TEM analysis confirmed that all HAZ simulated specimens showed similar precipitation conditions for all cases. Based on our analysis, we confirmed that the precipitation behavior of κ-carbide was the main factor of different HAZ mechanical properties. We also suggested that discontinuous HAZ mechanical properties should be considered during the welding process because of κ-carbide dissolution in FeMnAlC lightweight steels.

Temperature constraints on microfabric patterns in quartzofeldsphatic mylonites, Ribeira belt (SE Brazil)

Based on samples from the major high-temperature Três Rios-Além Paraíba-Pádua transpressive shear zone in the Ribeira orogenic belt, Brazil, we discuss the applicability of TitaniQ geothermometry to constrain peak temperature conditions during high-temperature mylonitization of quartzofeldspatic rocks, and explore the microfabrics formed at these conditions. We discuss various aspects of the TitaniQ method and conclude that deformation occurred at temperatures ranging from 612 to 740 ± 20 °C in the studied segment of the shear zone. This high-temperature deformation resulted in relatively large grain size, quartz ribbons and abundant intracrystalline deformation. However, the CPO fabrics are weak, and microstructures suggest that quartz deformation was accommodated by dynamic recrystallization involving grain boundary migration with subsequent grain growth, and later some subgrain rotation during exhumation. We relate the weak fabrics to diffusion processes during or immediately after dynamic recrystallization and dislocation creep, and to the effect of competing slip systems during deformation. In terms of rheology, evidence for Dauphiné twinning in our samples suggest strain softening during mylonitization, and we suggest that such twinning may add to the rheologically weak nature of quartzo-feldspatic portions of hot middle to lower crust.

High‐Tand low‐Pmetamorphism in the Xilingol Complex of central Inner Mongolia, China: An indicator of extension in a previous orogeny

AbstractThe Xilingol Complex comprises biotite gneisses and amphibolite interlayers with extensive migmatization. Four representative samples were documented and found to record either two or three metamorphic stages. Phase modelling usingthermocalcsuggests that the observed assemblages represent the final stages that underwent cooling from temperature peaks, and are consistent with a fluid‐absent solidus inP–Tpseudosections. TheirP–Tconditions are further constrained to be 5–6 kbar/680–725°C and 4–5 kbar/650–680°C for two garnet‐bearing gneiss samples, 4–5 kbar/660–730°C for a cordierite‐bearing gneiss sample, and 4–5 kbar/680–710°C for an amphibolite sample based on mineral composition isopleths, involving measured Mg content in biotite, anorthite in plagioclase, grossular and pyrope in garnet and Ti content in amphibole. The peak temperature conditions recovered are 760–790°C or >760°C at 5–6 kbar based on the composition isopleths of plagioclase, biotite, garnet and especially the comparison of melt contents between the calculated and observed. A pre‐peak heating process with slight decompression can be suggested for some samples on the basis of the core–rim increase in the plagioclase anorthite, and the stability of ilmenite. Zircon U–Pb dating using theLA‐ICP‐MSmethod provides systemic constraints on the metamorphic ages of the Xilingol Complex to be 348–305 Ma, interpreted to represent the post‐peak cooling stages. Moreover, metagabbroic dykes that intruded into the Xilingol Complex yield 317 ± 3 Ma from magmatic zircon, and are considered to have played a significant role for heat advection triggering the high‐Tand low‐Pmetamorphism. Thus, the clockwiseP–Tpaths involving pre‐peak heating, peak and post‐peak cooling recovered for the Xilingol Complex are consistent with an extensional setting in the Carboniferous that developed on a previous orogen in response to addition of mantle‐derived materials probably together with upwelling of the asthenospheric mantle.

Petrogenetic relations among titanium‐rich minerals in an anatectic high‐P mafic granulite

AbstractThe petrogenetic relations among Ti‐rich minerals in high‐grade metabasites is illuminated here through a detailed petrological investigation of an anatectic garnet–clinopyroxene granulite from the Grenville Province, Ontario, Canada containing rutile, titanite and ilmenite in distinct microtextural settings. Garnet porphyroblasts exhibit zoned Ti concentrations (up to 0.15 wt% TiO2 in their cores), as well as a variety of rutile inclusion types, including clusters of small, variably elongate grains and thin (≤1 μm) oriented needles. Calcite inclusions in garnet, commonly observed surrounding garnet cores containing quartz and clinozoisite, indicate the presence of evolving C–O–H fluids during garnet growth and suggest that the rutile clusters may have formed from subsequent Ti diffusion and rutile precipitation within existing fluid inclusions. Titanite forms large subhedral crystals and typically occurs where the primary garnet–clinopyroxene assemblage is in contact with leucosome containing megacrystic hornblende, silvialitic scapolite and calcic plagioclase. Many titanite crystals exhibit marginal subgrains that correspond with sharp changes in their major and trace element composition, likely related to a dissolution–precipitation or recrystallization process following primary crystallization. Clinopyroxene–ilmenite symplectite coronas surround titanite in most locations, likely forming from reaction with the hornblende‐plagioclase matrix (±fluids/melt). Integration of multi‐equilibria thermobarometry and Zr thermometry in rutile and titanite with phase equilibrium modelling allows definition of a clockwise P–T path evolving to peak pressures of ~1.5 GPa at ~750°C during garnet and rutile growth, followed by peak temperature conditions of ~1.2 GPa and ~820–880°C associated with melt‐present titanite growth, and finally cooling and decompression to regional amphibolite facies conditions (~1.0 GPa and ~750°C) associated with the formation of clinopyroxene–ilmenite symplectites surrounding titanite. P–T pseudosections calculated for the pristine (leucosome‐ and titanite ‐free) metabasite bulk composition reproduce much of the prograde phase relations, but predict rutile as the stable Ti‐rich mineral at the peak thermal conditions associated with melt‐present titanite growth. The P–M(CaO) and T–M(CaO) models show that bulk CaO concentrations have a significant effect on the stability ranges of titanite and rutile. Increased bulk CaO tends to stabilize titanite to higher pressure and temperature at the expense of rutile, with a ≥15% increase in CaO producing the observed titanite‐bearing assemblage at high‐P granulite facies conditions. Thus, the model results are consistent with the textural observations, which suggest that titanite stability is associated with a chemical exchange between the host metabasite and a Ca‐rich melt.

Computational Analysis of an Early Direct Injected HCCI Engine Using Bio Ethanol and Diesel Blends as Fuel

Abstract In this paper the work deals with the Experimental analysis of the early direct injected HCCI. The computational analysis of the engine was carried out using CHEMKIN-PRO Software. The computational analysis was carried out using the auto ignition chemistry by means of reduced chemical kinetics. For these investigations, the neat diesel and bio ethanol - diesel blend (E20) fuels were used as fuel and the pressure, combustion and emission characteristics were studied in the equivalence ratio of 0.6 (ɸ = 0.6). The injection timing was advanced to 18° rather than the normal 23° before top dead centre (BTDC) as specified engine conditions. Since pressure and temperature profiles plays a vital role in reaction path at certain operating conditions, an effort has been made here to present a comprehensive reaction path analysis on the formation/destruction of chemical species at peak temperature and pressure conditions.

On the meaning of peak temperature profiles in inverted metamorphic sequences

Inverted metamorphic sequences (IMS) are common features of main thrust systems on Earth. They exhibit an upwards continuous increase in peak temperature conditions and thereby constitute evidence of the close relationship between the thermal field evolution and tectonic processes. Heat advection and shear heating are known to allow the formation of such metamorphic signatures. Heat diffusion also plays an important role in temperature distribution on both sides of the thrust. Other advection processes such as erosion or accretion may also cause a local peak temperature inversion. Each one of these processes therefore affects the thermal field around the thrust. However, despite the crucial importance of all these processes for the interpretation of the inverted peak temperature signatures, their respective influences have never been quantified and compared all together. To address this issue, we propose an innovative coupled approach. (i) We use two-dimensional numerical models that simulate various thrust systems, allowing for a wide diversity of setups. To illustrate this study, we focus on intracontinental thrust systems for which all processes listed are likely to play a key role in the thermal evolution. We perform a parametric study including kinematic settings (i.e. convergence, erosion and accretion), thermal properties, mechanical strength and heat sources. (ii) Dimensionless numbers based on parameters are used to quantify the relative contributions of each process to the thermal budget evolution. Hence, the three thermal processes (i.e. heat diffusion, heat advection and shear heating) are compared with each other via three dimensionless combinations of the Peclet and Brinkman numbers: RDif, RAdv and RPro, respectively. Erosion and accretion are compared separately, based on a fourth dimensionless number Rea. (iii) We analytically examine the inverted peak temperature recorded along profiles that are perpendicular to the thrust zone defined in our numerical experiments. Each peak temperature profile presenting an inversion can then be characterized by a function of approximation involving six meaningful parameters: the location μFF and width σFF of the maximum peak temperature inversion, the characteristic peak temperature Tcte and gradient GLB beneath the inversion zone, and the inversion-related contrasts in the peak temperature ΔT and gradient ΔG. This coupled approach, linking numerical modelling and analytical treatment, allows to quantitatively interpret IMS in terms of the processes involved. The application of our method to intracontinental thrust systems demonstrates that shear heating and erosion support significant inversions, but that the relative contributions of each process have meaningful consequences. Our results reveal that competition between shear heating and heat diffusion on the one hand, and between erosion and accretion on the other hand have a high impact. In particular, the variability in the rock's mechanical strength strongly influences the features of peak temperature inversions. Consequently, none of these processes can be ignored. Our results highlight the major importance of the rheology of rocks in the thermal evolution of shear zones. Finally, our methodology is not only restricted to the analysis of numerical data but also constitutes a way of broad interest to analyse peak temperature signatures around any shear zone.

Inferences on the Mesozoic evolution of the North Aegean from the isotopic record of the Chalkidiki block

The Chalkidiki block is a major domain in the North Aegean that, contrary to other domains in the region, largely escaped thermal perturbations during Tertiary extension. As a result, the Chalkidiki block is an ideal candidate to glean information related to the timing of Mesozoic thermal events using appropriate geochronological techniques. We have undertaken a laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) study (U-Th-Pb on monazites and U-Pb on zircons) coupled with 40Ar/39Ar dating on nine samples from various structural levels within the thrust system of the Chalkidiki block. The eastern, and structurally lower part of the system revealed a complete isotopic reset of Carboniferous – Early Triassic monazites coeval with partial monazite destruction, REE-mobilisation and formation of apatite-allanite-epidote coronas at ~132Ma, a reaction that is commonly observed in amphibolite-facies rocks. These coronas formed after crystallisation of garnet (i.e., at T>580°C) and, in all probability, either close to the peak-temperature conditions (~620°C) on a prograde path or during retrogression between the peak-temperature and the low-temperature boundary of the amphibolite facies. Cooling of these rocks and arrival at mid-crustal levels occurred at 95–100Ma. By contrast, the western, and structurally uppermost part of the system went through the same event by 120–125Ma. Further structural considerations with respect to medium-temperature geochronology data imply that syn-metamorphic thrusting must have ceased by early Late Cretaceous. We emphasize that, with the sole exception of the Chalkidiki block, no pre-45Ma medium-temperature geochronology data are preserved in other North Aegean domains, a feature that is clearly related to the extension-induced thermal perturbation of the region during the Tertiary.

Revisiting the high temperature metamorphic field gradient of the Ryoke Belt (SW Japan): New constraints from the Iwakuni-Yanai area

We revisit the origin of the metamorphic field gradient exposed in the Ryoke Belt (SW Japan) — the type locality for low pressure/high temperature (LP/HT) conditions — based on combined structural, petrological and geochronological data from the Iwakuni–Yanai area (W Ryoke). In this area metasedimentary rocks pass from schist in the north to partly migmatitic paragneiss in the south, and are surrounded by numerous granitoid bodies. Three deformation phases are emphasized; an accretionary-stage or burial deformation of weak intensity (D0), a vertical shortening (D1) which generated a subhorizontal, locally extensional foliation in the southern gneiss zone, and E–W upright folding (D2) which reworked both the northern schist and southern gneiss zones. Crystallization–deformation relationships indicate that, in the schist zone, most andalusite, cordierite and mica porphyroblasts formed after D0 and before D1. Syn-D1 mineral assemblages define E–W trending metamorphic zones with increasing grade from north to south, and rare syn-D2 parageneses reveal a similar pattern. Continuous magmatic activity lasted from ca. 105 to 94Ma. The oldest granitoids (Shimokuhara, Soo, Namera), found in the western part of the belt, were emplaced below schistose rocks at 105–100Ma. Subsequently, syn- to post-D1 granodiorite (Gamano) intruded concordantly with the foliation of southern, high-grade gneissic rocks from 100 to 94Ma. A large, syn-D1 pluton (Kibe) intruded the center of the belt at 98Ma, whereas a younger granite (Iwakuni) and its satellite dykes were emplaced to the northeast at 96–94Ma. Constraints on the timing of D1 (103–99Ma) and the likely diachronous D2 phase (100–94Ma) suggest a deformation continuum during magma intrusion and metamorphism.We conclude that the exposed metamorphic field gradient is an apparent, but fortuitous, alignment of P–T data resulting from spatially and temporally distinct thermal events. Peak temperature conditions in the relatively shallow schist zone were attained during a first, pre-tectonic, contact metamorphic event. A second, regional metamorphic overprint arose from the syn-tectonic intrusion of granitoids in the deeper gneiss zone. A younger contact metamorphic event locally affected the eastern part of the schist zone. The revised tectono-thermal history highlights the composite and diachronous character of the Ryoke metamorphic field gradient.

Shallow-crustal metamorphism during Late Cretaceous anatexis in the Sevier hinterland plateau: Peak temperature conditions from the Grant Range, eastern Nevada, U.S.A.

Documenting spatio-temporal relationships between the thermal and deformation histories of orogenic systems can elucidate their evolution. In the Sevier hinterland plateau in eastern Nevada, an episode of Late Cretaceous magmatism and metamorphism affected mid- and upper-crustal levels, concurrent with late-stage shortening in the Sevier thrust belt. Here, we present quantitative peak temperature data from the Grant Range, a site of localized, Late Cretaceous granitic magmatism and greenschist facies metamorphism. Twenty-two samples of Cambrian to Pennsylvanian metasedimentary and sedimentary rocks were analyzed, utilizing Raman spectroscopy on carbonaceous material, vitrinite reflectance, and Rock-Eval pyrolysis thermometry. A published reconstruction of Cenozoic extension indicates that the samples span pre-extensional depths of 2.5–9 km. Peak temperatures systematically increase with depth, from ∼100 to 300 °C between 2.5 and 4.5 km, ∼400 to 500 °C between 5 and 8 km, and ∼550 °C at 9 km. The data define a metamorphic field gradient of ∼60 °C/km, and are corroborated by quartz recrystallization microstructure and published conodont alteration indices. Metamorphism in the Grant Range is correlated with contemporary, upper-crustal metamorphism and magmatism documented farther east in Nevada, where metamorphic field gradients as high as ∼50 °C/km are estimated. These data have implications for localized but significant thermal weakening of the plateau crust, including attaining temperatures for quartz plasticity at depths of ∼5–6 km, and the potential for partial melting possibly as shallow as ∼12–15 km. Thermal weakening may have contributed to a slowing of shortening rates documented in the Sevier thrust belt at this latitude at ca. 88 Ma, by locally inducing mid- and lower-crustal ductile thickening in the hinterland.

Computational Analysis of an Early Direct Injected HCCI Engine with Turbocharger Using Bio Ethanol and Diesel Blends

In this paper the work deals with the computational analysis of early direct injected HCCI engine with turbocharger using the CHEMKIN-PRO software. The computational analysis was carried out in the base of auto ignition chemistry by means of reduced chemical kinetics. For this study the neat diesel and Bio ethanol diesel blend (E20) were used as fuel. The inlet pressure was increased to 1.2 bar to simulate the turbocharged engine operation. The injection time was advanced to 18° before top dead centre (BTDC) i.e., 5° BTDC than normal injection time of 23° BTDC. The equivalence ratio was kept at 0.6 (ɸ=0.6) and the combustion, emission characteristics and chemical kinetics of the combustion reaction were studied. Since pressure and temperature profiles plays a very important role in reaction path at certain operating conditions, an attempt had been made here to present a complete reaction path investigation on the formation/destruction of chemical species at peak temperature and pressure conditions. The result showed that main draw backs of HCCI combustion like higher levels of unburned hydrocarbon emissions and carbon monoxide emissions are reduced in the turbocharged operation of the HCCI engine when compared to normal HCCI engine operation without turbocharger.

Voluntary inhibition of pain avoidance behavior: an fMRI study.

Behavioral inhibition has classically been considered to rely upon a neural network centered at the right inferior frontal cortex [rIFC; Aron et al. (8:170-177, 2004; 18:177-185, 2014)]. However, the vast majority of inhibition studies have entailed exogenous stop signals instructing participants to withhold responding. More recent work has begun to examine the neural underpinnings of endogenous inhibition, revealing a distinct cortical basis in the dorsal fronto-median cortex [dFMC; Brass and Haggard (27:9141-9145, 2007); Kühn et al. (30:2834-3843, 2009)]. Yet, contrary to everyday experiences of voluntary behavioral suppression, the paradigms employed to investigate action inhibition have thus far been somewhat artificial, and involve little persuasive motivation to act. Accordingly, the present fMRI study seeks to compare and contrast intentional with instructed inhibition in a novel pain paradigm that recruits 'hot' incentive response systems. Participants received increasing thermal stimulation to their inner wrists, and were required to occasionally withhold their natural impulse to withdraw from the compelling pain sensation at peak temperature, in both instructed and free-choice conditions. Consistent with previous research, we observed inhibition-related activity in the dFMC and the rIFC. However, these regions displayed equivalent activation levels for both inhibition types. These data extend previous research by demonstrating that under ecologically valid conditions with a strong motivation to act, both stopping networks operate in concert to enable suppression of unwanted behavior.

Simulated Welding Heat Affected Zone Toughness and Microstructure Transformation of a Ti-Zr Microalloyed Low Carbon Steel

Acicular ferrite (AF) can significantly improve the performance of steels and can be promoted through special inclusions. The present experimental steel was a low carbon Ti-Zr deoxidized and microalloyed steel. The welding heat affected zone (HAZ) simulation indicated that under high heat input (100 kJ/cm) and peak temperature (1400°C) conditions, the HAZ exhibited high impact toughness (150 J, -20°C) and desired microstructure. Isothermal heat treatment data suggested that grain boundary ferrite formed at ~600°C and AF formed at ~500°C. Intragranular plates sheaves formed at ~450°C. MnS coherent precipitation on ZrO2TiOx inclusions promoted AF nucleation.

Post-Taconic tilting and Acadian structural overprint of the classic Barrovian metamorphic gradient in Dutchess County, New York

Field mapping and ⁴⁰Ar/³⁹Ar age spectrum dating of white mica across the classic metamorphic gradient in Dutchess County, New York indicate that post-peak metamorphic and structural events complicate the interpretation of this sequence as an intact Taconic metamorphic field gradient. Oriented samples were collected and fabrics were measured along two ∼7 km transects. These transects extend from west of the biotite zone (west of Clove Mountain) to the sillimanite zone (Swamp River Valley) in eastern Dutchess County. Field and petrographic analysis reveals three pervasive foliations (S1, S2 and S3). S1 is folded in the lower grade rocks of the sequence, but is increasingly overprinted at garnet and higher zones by a penetrative foliation, S2. S2 dips steeply to the SE and is axial planar to folds in S1. S2 is overgrown by porphyroblasts of biotite, biotite + chloritoid, biotite + garnet ± staurolite ± kyanite ± sillimanite, at respective metamorphic grades, that appear to approximate peak temperature conditions. S1, S2, and peak temperature conditions are constrained as late Taconic based on a depositional age of ∼460 Ma (Potter, 1972) for the Walloomsac Formation and a staurolite age of ∼454 Ma (Lanzirotti and Hanson, 1997) from kyanite-sillimanite grade rocks. S3 is a greenschist facies foliation composed of muscovite ± biotite ± chlorite that truncates or overprints S2 in garnet through sillimanite grade rocks in the eastern part of the study area. S3 dips gently to the S-SE and becomes more penetrative to the east, such that in the garnet zone, S2 is overprinted by a weakly developed spaced S3 cleavage, while in many samples in the staurolite and higher metamorphic zones S2 micas are significantly overprinted by S3 micas. S3 is observed wrapping around and truncating peak temperature porphyroblasts. Three samples of lepidoblastic white mica (with varying proportions of S1, S2, and S3) from the biotite through staurolite zone all produce ⁴⁰Ar/³⁹Ar age spectra suggesting closure ages of ∼385 Ma. These white mica ages are interpreted to represent the time of cooling through white mica closure (∼350 °C). The ⁴⁰Ar/³⁹Ar ages in conjunction with field mapping and petrographic analysis suggest that S3 developed in the Devonian Acadian orogeny. Furthermore, the ⁴⁰Ar/³⁹Ar data constrains the timing of tilting and uplift of the Ordovician Barrovian sequence from the Middle Silurian to Early Devonian. This study suggests mid-crustal wedging during the Salinic orogeny as a possible mechanism for tilting the rocks of this region and exposing the Taconic-aged Barrovian field gradient at the surface today. We conclude the low-grade Acadian metamorphic overprint of these rocks involved deformation that produced a new (third) cleavage that was coincident with regional cooling from peak Taconic metamorphic conditions and thus required strain but no reheating during the Acadian.

Barrovian metamorphism in the central Kootenay Arc, British Columbia: petrology and isograd geometry

A narrow, partly fault-bounded belt of Barrovian amphibolite facies rocks transects the central Kootenay Arc in the internal zone of the southeastern Canadian Cordillera. The following zones of increasing metamorphic grade are recognised in metapelites: chlorite/biotite, garnet, staurolite, kyanite, sillimanite, and sillimanite + K-feldspar. The garnet and higher-grade zones outline two joined domains: a N- to NNE-trending curved belt, >100 km long and 5–20 km wide, that is approximately parallel to the strike of stratigraphic units; and a SSE-trending belt, >70 km long and 10–15 km wide, that transects strike. Isograds in the N–NNE-trending belt outline an elongate bull’s-eye pattern with highest-grade rocks in the centre, coincident with the position of a structural culmination. Isogradic surfaces have an elongate domal form centred around this culmination. Rocks in the kyanite and sillimanite zones were metamorphosed at ~25 km (∼7 kbar (1 kbar = 100 MPa)) and >650 °C during Early Cretaceous crustal thickening; rocks in the garnet zone experienced peak temperature conditions (∼500 °C) at lower pressure, suggesting the piezothermic array for the belt has a positive slope. The western flank of the N- to NNE-trending belt is cut by the west-dipping Gallagher fault zone (GFZ), whereas the eastern boundary of the SSE-trending fork is marked by the Purcell Trench fault (PTF). These Palaeocene–Eocene normal faults truncate Early Cretaceous isogradic surfaces and juxtapose regions with contrasting structural and metamorphic histories. Low-grade rocks in the hanging wall of the GFZ underwent peak regional metamorphism during the Early–Middle Jurassic, prior to intrusion of the 159–173 Ma Nelson batholith at a depth of ∼12–14 km. With the exception of a zone along the southern “tail” of the Nelson batholith, rocks in the hanging wall of the GFZ were not affected by Cretaceous metamorphism or penetrative deformation. Rocks in the amphibolite-facies belt yield Palaeocene–Eocene K–Ar and 40Ar/39Ar mica cooling ages, whereas K–Ar biotite ages in the hanging wall of the GFZ record Jurassic – Early Cretaceous cooling, and those in the hanging wall of the PTF are mid-Cretaceous. Although the GFZ and PTF accommodated differential exhumation during the Palaeogene, significant relief on isogradic surfaces was established prior to normal faulting, during Early Cretaceous metamorphism and deformation.