Zircon U–Pb age and Hf isotopic compositions of Mesozoic granitoids in southern Qiangtang,Tibet: Implications for the subduction of the Bangong–Nujiang Tethyan Ocean

The southern Qiangtang magmatic belt was formed by the north-dipping subduction of the Bangong–Nujiang Tethyan Ocean during Mesozoic. To better understand the petrogenesis, time–space distribution along the length of this belt, 21 samples of several granitoid bodies, from west to east, in the Bangong Co, Gaize, Dongqiao and Amdo areas were selected for in-situ zircon U–Pb dating, Hf isotopic and whole-rock chemical analyses. The results suggest a prolonged period of magmatic activity (185–84 Ma) with two major stages during the Jurassic (185–150 Ma) and the Early Cretaceous (126–100 Ma). Both the Jurassic and Cretaceous granitoids are high-K calc-alkaline I-type rocks, except the Cretaceous two-mica granite from Amdo in the east, which belongs to S-type. The granitoids are generated from different source materials as indicated by zircon Hf isotopic compositions. The Bangong Co and Dongqiao granitoids show high zircon ε_Hf(t) values of − 1.3–13.6 with younger T_DM^C ages of 293–1263 Ma, suggesting a relatively juvenile source; whereas the Gaize and Amdo granitoids have low ε_Hf(t) values of − 16.1–2.9 with older T_DM^C ages of 999–2024 Ma, indicating an old crustal contribution. These source rocks melt at different P–T conditions as suggested by Sr/Y ratio and T_Zr. The Sr/Y ratio of both stage granitoids increases with decreasing age. However, the T_Zr of the Jurassic granitoids decreases, whereas the T_Zr of the Cretaceous granitoids increases with decreasing age. The contrasting geochemical signatures of these granitoids may be controlled by the varying contribution of slab-derived fluids involved in the generation of the Jurassic and Cretaceous granitic magmas; i.e. increasing amount of fluids in the Jurassic, whereas decreasing amount of fluids in the Cretaceous. Therefore, it is proposed that the Jurassic and Cretaceous magmatism may be related to subduction and closure of the Bangong–Nujiang Tethyan Ocean, respectively. The age pattern of the Jurassic and Cretaceous granitoids suggests an oblique subduction of the Bangong–Nujiang Tethyan Ocean and a diachronous collision between the Lhasa and Qiangtang blocks.     

Spatial and temporal distribution of peraluminous granites in Tibet and their tectonic significance

The distribution of peraluminous granites in Tibet is treated on the basis of the tectonic zones in which they occur, their spatial and temporal distribution, the peak of magmatic activity and the volume of magma intruded. Magmatic activity, with the intrusion of peraluminous granites, was initiated during the Early Jurassic and culminated in the middle Miocene, especially between 20 and 10 Ma. Rock types include tourmaline, muscovite and two-mica granites. Magmatic activity in the Gangdise Belt migrated from the east to west and from the south to the north. Episodes of tectonic evolution for the lithosphere of the Qinghai–Xizang (Tibet) Plateau, deduced from peraluminous granite intrusion are: (1) Latest Triassic to Early Jurassic (208–157 Ma), representing the subduction phase of the Bangong Co–Nu Jiang oceanic zone; (2) Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous (157–97 Ma), representing the subduction and collision phases of the Bangong–Nu Jiang oceanic zone; (3) Late Cretaceous to early Paleocene (97–65 Ma), representing the subduction and initial collision phases of the Yarlung Zangbo oceanic zone ; (4) Paleocene to Eocene (65–40 Ma), representing the major collisional stage of the Yarlung Zangbo Oceanic zone and the formation of crust-derived granites; and (5) Oligocene to Recent, representing an intense intracontinental convergence phase.     

Tectono-magmatic evolution of the Gaoligong belt,southeastern margin of the Tibetan plateau: Constraints from granitic gneisses and granitoid intrusions

The Gaoligong belt is located in the southeastern margin of the Tibetan plateau, and is bound by the Tengchong and Baoshan blocks. This paper presents new data from zircon geochronology, geochemistry, and whole-rock Sr–Nd–Pb–Hf isotopes to evaluate the tectonic evolution of the Gaoligong belt. The major rock types analysed in the present study are granitic gneiss, granodiorite, and granite. They are metaluminous to peraluminous and belong to high-K, calc-alkaline series. Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA–ICP–MS) analyses of zircons from nine granitic rocks yielded crystallization ages of 495–487 Ma, 121 Ma, 89 Ma, and 70–63 Ma. The granitoids can be subdivided into the following four groups. (1) Early Paleozoic granitic gneisses with high ε_Nd(t) and ε_Hf(t) values of − 1.06 to − 3.45 and − 1.16 to 2.09, and model ages of 1.16 Ga to 1.33 Ga and 1.47 Ga to 1.63 Ga, respectively. Their variable ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr and Pb values resemble the characteristics of the Early Paleozoic Pinghe granite in the Baoshan block. Our data suggest that the rocks were derived from the break-off of the Proto-Tethyan oceanic slab between the outboard continent and the Baoshan block, which induced the partial melting of Mesoproterozoic pelitic sources mixed with depleted mantle materials. (2) Early Cretaceous granodiorites with low ε_Nd(t) and ε_Hf(t) values of − 8.92 and − 4.91 with Nd and Hf model ages of 1.41 Ga and 1.49 Ga, respectively. These rocks have high initial ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr (0.711992) and lower crustal Pb values, suggesting that they were derived from Mesoproterozoic amphibolites with tholeiitic signature, leaving behind granulite residue at the lower crust. (3) Early Late Cretaceous granites with low ε_Nd(t) and ε_Hf(t) values of − 9.58 and − 4.61 with Nd and Hf model ages of 1.43 Ga and 1.57 Ga, respectively. These rocks have high initial ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr (0.713045) and lower crustal Pb isotopic values. These rocks were generated from the partial melting of Mesoproterozoic metapelitic sources resulting from the delamination of thickened lithosphere, following the closure of the Bangong–Nujiang Ocean and collision of the Lhasa–Qiangtang blocks. (4) Late Cretaceous to Paleogene granitic gneisses with low ε_Nd(t) and ε_Hf(t) values of − 4.41 to − 10 and − 5.95 to − 8.71, Nd model ages ranging from 1.08 Ga to 1.43 Ga, and Hf model ages from 1.53 Ga to 1.67 Ga, respectively. These rocks show high initial ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr (0.713201 and 714662) and lower crustal Pb values. The data suggest that these rocks are likely related to the eastward subduction of the Neo-Tethyan Oceanic slab, which induced partial melting of Mesoproterozoic lower crustal metagreywacke. The results presented in this study from the Gaoligong belt offer important insights on the evolution of the Proto-Tethyan, Bangong–Nujiang, and Neo-Tethyan oceans in the southeastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau.     

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 ε_Hf(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 ε_Hf(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 ε_Hf(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.     

Tectono-magmatic evolution of Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous granitoids in the west central Lhasa subterrane,Tibet

There is ongoing debate as to the subduction direction of the Bangong–Nujiang Ocean during the Mesozoic (northward, southward or bidirectional subduction). Arc-related intermediate to felsic intrusions could mark the location of the subduction zone and, more importantly, elucidate the dominant geodynamic processes. We report whole rock geochemical and zircon U–Pb and Hf isotopic data for granitoids from the west central Lhasa subterrane (E80° to E86°). All rocks show metaluminous to peraluminous, calc-alkaline signatures, with strong depletion of Nb, Ta and Ti, enrichment of large ion lithophile elements (e.g., Cs, Rb, K), a negative correlation between SiO₂ and P₂O₅, and a positive correlation between Rb and Th. All these features are indicative of I-type arc magmatism. New zircon U–Pb results, together with data from the literature, indicate continuous magmatism from the Late Jurassic to the Early Cretaceous (160 to 130 Ma). Zircon U–Pb ages for samples from the northern part of the west central Lhasa subterrane (E80° to E82°30′) yielded formation ages of 165 to 150 Ma, whereas ages of 142 to 130 Ma were obtained on samples from the south. This suggests flat or low-angle subduction of the Bangong–Nujiang Ocean, consistent with a slight southward decrease in zircon εHf(t) values for Late Jurassic rocks. Considering the crustal shortening, the distance from the Bangong–Nujiang suture zone, and a typical subduction zone melting depth of ~ 100 km, the subduction angle was less than 14° for Late Jurassic magmatism in the central Lhasa interior, consistent with flat or low-angle subduction. Compared with Late Jurassic rocks (main εHf(t) values of − 16 to − 7), Early Cretaceous rocks (145 to 130 Ma) show markedly higher εHf(t) values (mainly − 8 to 0), possibly indicating slab roll-back, likely caused by slab foundering or break-off. Combined with previously published works on arc magmatism in the central Lhasa and west part of the southern Qiangtang subterranes, our results support the bidirectional subduction of the Bangong–Nujiang Ocean along the Bangong–Nujiang Suture Zone, and indicates flat or low-angle southward subduction (165 to 145 Ma) followed by slab roll-back (145 to 130 Ma).     

Late Mesozoic magmatism in the East Qinling Orogen,China and its tectonic implications

The Qinling Orogen in Central China records the history of a complex geological evolution and tectonic transition from compression to extension during the Late Mesozoic,with concomitant voluminous granitoids formation.In this study,we present results from petrological,geochemical,zircon U-Pb-Lu-Hf isotopic studies on the Lengshui felsic dykes from Luanchuan region in the East Qinling Orogen.We also compile published geochronological,geochemical,and Hf isotopic data from Luanchuan region and present zircon Hf isotopic contour maps.The newly obtained age data yield two group of ages at～145 Ma and 140 Ma for two granite porphyries from the Lengshui felsic dykes,with the ～145 Ma interpreted as response to the peak of magmatism in the region,and the ～140 Ma as the timing of formation of the felsic dykes.The corresponding Hf isotopic data of the granite porphyries display negativeeHit)values of-16.67 to-4.61,and Hf crustal model ages(T_(DM~C_)of 2255-1490 Ma,indicating magma sourced from the melting of Paleo-to Mesoproterozoic crustal materials.The compiled age data display two major magmatic pulses at 160-130 Ma and 111-108 Ma with magmatic quiescence in between,and the zircon Hf isotopic data display/ε_(Hf)(t)values ranging from-41.9 to 2.1 and T_(DM)~c values of3387-1033 Ma,suggesting mixed crustal and mantle-derived components in the magma source,and correspond to multiple tectonic events during the Late Mesozoic.The Luanchuan granitoids are identified as 1-type granites and most of these are highly fractionated granites,involving magma mixing and mingling and crystal fractionation.The tectonic setting in the region transformed from the Late Jurassic syn-collision setting to Early Cretaceous within-plate setting,with E-W extension in the Early Cretaceous.This extension is correlated with the N-S trending post-collisional extension between the North China Craton and Yangtze Craton as well as the E-W trending back-arc extension triggered by the westward Paleo-Pacific Plate subduction,eventually leading to lithospheric thinning,asthenospheric upwelling,mafic magma underplating,and crustal melting in the East Qinling Orogen.     

Geodynamics of the divergent double subduction along the Bangong-Nujiang tethyan suture zone: Insights from late mesozoic intermediate-mafic rocks in central Tibet

Bangong-Nujiang Suture Zone (BNSZ) in central Tibet plays an important role in evaluating the formation and uplift mechanism of Tibetan Plateau. However, its Mesozoic tectonic evolution is ambiguous and intensely debated. In this study, Early Cretacesous adakites and sodium-rich arc rocks are identified in Western Qiangtang (WQ) and Northern Lhasa (NL) sub-terranes. Forty-four adakite samples from both WQ and NL have akin geochemical features, and are derived from partial melting of subducted oceanic crust with amphibole residual. Nineteen sodium-rich samples originated from a mixed source region between crustal sediment and enriched lithospheric mantle. These two parallel arc belts separated by the Bangong-Nujiang Suture Zone (BNSZ) represent the divergent double subduction of the Bangong-Nujiang Tethyan Ocean (BNTO). Combined with the previous studies, our new data suggest three significant magmatic flare-ups at ∼240–140 Ma, 135–105 Ma and 92–60 Ma in the WQ and BNSZ, and two at 135–105 Ma and 92–60 Ma in the NL. These asymmetrical magmatic activities indicate that the southern subduction may have commenced at about 135 Ma and experienced slab breakoff at the latest Early Cretaceous, and the northern subduction could trace back to L-Triassic (228 Ma) and experienced episodic low-angle subduction, slab rollback (190-140 Ma) and oceanic ridge subduction (135-100 Ma). The 100–92 Ma magmatic gap, 92–60 Ma magmatic flare-up and L-Cretaceous angular unconformities indicate that the double-sided subduction of the BNTO resulted in soft collision with oceanic lithosphere detachment.     

Sedimentary record of Jurassic northward subduction of the Bangong–Nujiang Ocean: insights from detrital zircons

The subduction polarity and related arc–magmatic evolutional history of the Bangong–Nujiang Ocean, which separated the South Qiangtang terrane to the north from the North Lhasa terrane to the south during the Mesozoic, remain debated. This study tries to reconstruct the subduction and evolution of the Bangong–Nujiang Ocean on the basis of U–Pb and Hf isotopic analyses of detrital zircons in samples from sedimentary rocks of the middle-western section of the Bangong–Nujiang suture zone in Gerze County, central Tibet. The Middle Jurassic Muggargangri Group in the Bangong–Nujiang suture zone was deposited in a deep-sea basin setting on an active continental margin. The Late Jurassic strata, such as the Sewa Formation, are widely distributed in the South Qiangtang terrane and represent deposition on a shelf. The Early Cretaceous Shamuluo Formation in the Bangong–Nujiang suture zone unconformably overlies the Muggargangri Group and was probably deposited in a residual marine basin setting. The detrital zircons of the Muggargangri Group contain seven U–Pb age populations: 2.6–2.4 Ga, 1.95–1.75 Ga, 950–900 Ma, 850–800 Ma, 650–550 Ma, 480–420 Ma, and 350–250 Ma, which is similar to the age populations in sedimentary rocks of the South Qiangtang terrane. In addition, the age spectra of the Shamuluo Formation are similar to those of the Muggargangri Group, indicating that both had a northern terrane provenance, which is conformed by the north-to-south palaeocurrent. This provenance indicates northward subduction of the Bangong–Nujiang oceanic crust. In contrast, two samples from the Sewa Formation yield variable age distributions: the lower sample has age populations similar to those of the South Qiangtang terrane, whereas the upper possesses only one age cluster with a peak at ca. 156 Ma. Moreover, the majority of the late Mesozoic detrital zircons are characterized by weakly positive εHf(t) values that are similar to those of magmatic zircons from arc magmatic rocks in the South Qiangtang terrane. The findings, together with information from the record of magmatism, indicate that the earliest prevalent arc magmatism occurred during the Early Jurassic (ca. 185 Ma) and that the principal arc–magmatic stage occurred during the Middle–Late Jurassic (ca. 170–150 Ma). The magmatic gap and scarcity of detrital zircons at ca. 140–130 Ma likely indicate collision between the Qiangtang and Lhasa terranes. The late Early Cretaceous (ca. 125–100 Ma) magmatism on both sides of the Bangong–Nujiang suture zone was probably related to slab break-off or lithospheric delamination after closure of the Bangong–Nujiang Ocean.     

Petrogenesis of granitoids in the Wulan area: Magmatic activity and tectonic evolution in the North Qaidam,NW China

Numerous granitic intrusions crop out in the eastern segment of the North Qaidam block (NQ), NW China. To evaluate their ages, petrogenesis and genetic relationships to other granitoids in the NQ, we present geochemical and geochronologic data for six intrusive bodies and review regional data. Zircon U-Pb (SHRIMP) dating yielded ages of 413 ± 3 Ma for the Hadesengou granite; 254 ± 3 Ma for the Xugeigou granite; 251 ± 1 Ma for the Qiluoshan granite; 249 ± 1 and 248 ± 2 Ma for the Chahannuo hornblende diorite and granite, respectively; 240 ± 2 Ma for the Chahanhe granite; and 250 ± 1 and 244 ± 3 Ma for the Shailekegoulei granodiorite and granite, respectively. Consequently, the Wulan plutons can be divided into two petrologic groups: Early Devonian (D₁) quartz monzonite and syenogranite, and Late Permian to Early Triassic (P₃-T₁) hornblende diorite, granodiorite, and granite. The D₁ granitic intrusions have geochemical affinities with A-type granites (A₂-type) characterized by low Ca, Sr, Ba and Nb, and high Fe, Ga, Y and Rb, consistent with derivation by partial melting of metapelitic source rocks containing a small amount of metagraywacke. The P₃-T₁ I-type granitic intrusions are geochemically typical of active continental margin rocks, consistent with derivation by partial melting of metabasalt and clay-poor metagraywacke. Combined with previous studies, we recognize five periods of granitic magmatism in the NQ: (1) 465–473 Ma; (2) 423–446 Ma; (3) 391–413 Ma; (4) 372–383 Ma; and (5) 240–271 Ma. Based on the temporal-spatial distribution of granitic intrusions in the NQ and the regional tectonic evolution, we interpret the first and second periods of granitic magmatism as related to normal plate subduction, and the third period to slab break-off and exhumation of the subducted plate. The fourth stage of granitic magmatism is attributed to large-scale lithospheric mantle delamination, involving the differential movement of orogenic blocks. The fifth period of granitic plutonism probably reflects northward subduction of the East Kunlun Paleotethys oceanic crust and southward subduction of Zongwulong oceanic crust beneath the Oulongbuluke continental block.     

Zircon LA-ICP-MS dating and geochemical characteristics of I-type granitoids from the Yanhu area,west segment of the Bangongco-Nujiang suture (western Tibet): Petrogenesis and implications for the southward subduction of the Tethyan Ocean

The Yanhu granitoids are located in the west segment of the Bangongco-Nujiang suture in the western Tibetan Plateau. The main rock types of the granitoids are diorite porphyry, quartz diorite, granodiorite, granite and granite porphyry. Here, their zircon LA-ICP-MS U-Pb ages and petrogeochemical data are reported. Three groups of magmatic events can be distinguished from the Yanhu area: group 1 includes samples AK01 and ZK01 of diorite porphyry, and sample D3658 of quartz diorite that yield mean zircon U-Pb ages of 121.0 ± 2.7 Ma, 116.6 ± 2.0 Ma and 116.0 ± 3.9 Ma, respectively; group 2 includes sample D0050 of diorite porphyry, samples D1393 and D3660 of granodiorite and sample D3065 of granite porphyry that yield mean zircon U-Pb ages of 104.9 ± 2.0 Ma, 105.4 ± 3.8 Ma, 104.2 ± 1.9 Ma and 104.2 ± 1.9 Ma, respectively; group 3 includes sample D3093 of granite that yields mean zircon U-Pb ages of 93.6 ± 1.5 Ma. The zircon LA-ICP-MS U-Pb ages suggest that the Yanhu granitoids were emplaced at 121.0–93.6 Ma, representing Cretaceous magmatism in the west segment of the Bangongco-Nujiang suture. The granitoids are composed of SiO₂ (56.57 to 76.98 wt.%), Al₂O₃ (12.20 to 17.90 wt.%), Na₂O (3.61 to 4.98 wt.%), K₂O (2.06 to 4.71 wt.%) and CaO (0.27 to 5.74 wt.%). The Yanhu granitoids exhibit enrichment in LREE (light REE) and LILE (large ion lithophile elements) such as Rb, Th, U, Pb and K and depletion of HREE (heavy REE), P, Ti, Nb, Ta and Zr. Their A/CNK ratios of 0.85-1.06 are <1.1, implying that they are high-K, metaluminous-weakly peraluminous I-type granites. TheYanhu granitoids were generated mainly by partial melts of the meta-igneous lower crust and some arc-related materials. The Yanhu granitoids probably formed in VAG and syn-COLG tectonic settings related to the southward subduction of the Tethyan Ocean. Diorite porphyry and quartz diorite magmatism from 121.0 Ma to 116.0 Ma may be associated with the southward Bangongco–Nujiang Tethys oceanic crust subduction. Diorite porphyry, granodiorite, and granite porphyry magmatism from 105.4 Ma to 104.2 Ma may be associated with the rising asthenosphere induced by the slab breakoff. Granite magmatism from 93.6 Ma may be related to the crustal thickening induced by the final amalgamation of the Lhasa Terrane and the Qiangtang Terrane.     

Emplacement Ages and Petrogenesis of the Molybdenum–bearing Granites in the Jinduicheng Area of East Qinling, China: Constraints from Zircon U–Pb Ages and Hf Isotopes

The Mesozoic porphyry assemblage in the Jinduicheng area is a special molybdenum area in China, the Mo deposits, including the Jinduicheng, Balipo, Shijiawan, Huanglongpu, are distributed. The emplacement age and geochemical features of the granites in the Jinduicheng area can provide essential information for the exploration and development of the porphyry molybdenum deposit. In this study, we report LA–ICP–MS zircon U–Pb age and zircon Hf isotopic compositions of granite porphyries from the Jinduicheng area, and provide insights on the petrogensis and source characteristics of the granites. The results show that the zircon U–Pb ages of the Jinduicheng granite porphyry (143±1 Ma) and the Balipo granite (154±1 Ma), agree well with the Re–Os ages of molybdenite in the Jinduicheng molybdenum polymetallic deposit (139±3 Ma) and the Balipo molybdenum polymetallic deposit (156±2 Ma), indicating that the emplacement of granite porphyries occurred between Late Jurassic and Early Cretaceous. Zircons granite from the Jinduicheng area give the εHf(t) values mainly ranging from ?10 to ?16, and ?20 to ?24, respectively, corresponding to two–stage model ages (tDM2: mainly focused on 1.86–2.0 Ga, and 2.2–2.6 Ga, respectively) of zircons of the granite from the Jinduicheng values. The ore–forming materials are mainly derived from crust, with minor mantle substances. Zircons of the granite from the Balipo area give εHf(t) values ranging from ?18 to ?20, ?28 to ?38, and ?42 to ?44, respectively, corresponding to two–stage model ages (tDM2: mainly focused on 1.88–3.0 Ga, and 3.2–3.90 Ga, respectively). the εHf(t) values of the Jinduicheng porphyry more than that of the Balipo porphyry, and two–stage model ages (tDM2) less than that of the Balipo porphyry, shows that he source of the porphyries originated from ancient lower crustal materials in the Jinduicheng area, and mixed younger components, more younger components contributed for the source of the Jinduicheng porphyry.     

Petrology,geochemistry and geochronology of the Zhongcang ophiolite,northern Tibet: implications for the evolution of the Bangong-Nujiang Ocean

Ophiolites are widespread along the Bangong-Nujiang suture zone, northern Tibet. However, it is still debated on the formation ages and tectonic evolution process of these ophiolites. The Zhongcang ophiolite is a typical ophiolite in the western part of the Bangong-Nujiang suture zone. It is composed of serpentinized peridotite, cumulate and isotropic gabbros, massive and pillow basalts, basaltic volcanic breccia, and minor red chert. Zircon SHRIMP Ue Pb dating for the isotropic gabbro yielded weighted mean age of 163.4 ± 1.8 Ma. Positive zircon ε Hf(t) values(+15.0 to +20.2) and mantle-like σ~(18)O values(5.29 ±0.21)% indicate that the isotropic gabbros were derived from a long-term depleted mantle source. The isotropic gabbros have normal mid-ocean ridge basalt(N-MORB) like immobile element patterns with high Mg O, low TiO_2 and moderate rare earth element(REE) abundances, and negative Nb,Ti, Zr and Hf anomalies. Basalts show typical oceanic island basalt(OIB) geochemical features, and they are similar to those of OIB-type rocks of the Early Cretaceous Zhongcang oceanic plateau within the Bangong-Nujiang Ocean. Together with these data, we suggest that the Zhongcang ophiolite was probably formed by the subduction of the Bangong-Nujiang Ocean during the Middle Jurassic. The subduction of the Bangong-Nujiang Tethyan Ocean could begin in the Earlye Middle Jurassic and continue to the Early Cretaceous, and finally continental collision between the Lhasa and Qiangtang terranes at the west Bangong-Nujiang suture zone probably has taken place later than the Early Cretaceous(ca. 110 Ma).     

西藏哈海岗钨钼多金属矿床地质特征及辉钼矿铼-锇同位素定年

西藏墨竹工卡县哈海岗钨钼多金属矿床是近年来新发现的以钨钼为主的多金属矿床,也是念青唐古拉成矿带发现的第一个钨钼多金属矿床。文章简要地介绍了该矿床基本地质特征,利用Re-Os同位素定年方法对采自哈海岗矽卡岩型钨钼矿体中的2件辉钼矿进行了成矿年代的测定,获得的辉钼矿Re-Os同位素模式年龄分别为(140.1±2.8) Ma和(143.3±5.2) Ma,平均值为(141.7±4) Ma。测年数据表明,矿床成矿时代属于早白垩世,可能系班公湖—怒江洋向南俯冲碰撞阶段成矿作用的产物,早于其东侧亚贵拉、洞中拉石英斑岩的成岩年龄(126 Ma左右)。矿床成矿时代的厘定丰富了冈底斯—念青唐古拉成矿带矿床成矿系列,指示冈底斯成矿带存在早白垩世的成矿作用,该带至少存在四期独立的钼成矿事件;同时对于研究区域岩浆演化与成矿作用以及区域找矿预测也具有十分重要的意义。     

The formation and rejuvenation of continental crust in the central North China Craton: Evidence from zircon U–Pb geochronology and Hf isotope

The Trans-North China Orogen (TNCO) along the central part of the North China Craton (NCC) is considered as a Paleoproterozoic suture along which the Eastern and Western Blocks of the NCC were amalgamated. Here we investigate the Precambrian crustal evolution history in the Fuping segment of the TNCO and the subsequent reactivation associated with extensive craton destruction during Mesozoic. We present zircon LA-ICP-MS U–Pb and Lu–Hf data on TTG (tonalite–trondhjemite–granodiorite) gneiss, felsic orthogneiss, amphibolite and granite from the Paleoproterozoic suite which show magmatic ages in the range of 2450–1900 Ma suggesting a long-lived convergent margin. The ε_Hf(t) values of these zircons range from −11.9 to 12 and their model ages suggest magma derivation from both juvenile components and reworked Archean crust. The Mesozoic magmatic units in the Fuping area includes granite, diorite and mafic microgranular enclaves, the zircons from which define a tight range of 120–130 Ma ages suggesting a prominent Early Cretaceous magmatic event. However, the ε_Hf(t) values of these zircons show wide a range from −30.3 to 0.2, indicating that the magmatic activity involved extensive rejuvenation of the older continental crust.     

Paleozoic multi-stage accretionary evolution of the SW Chinese Tianshan: New constraints from plutonic complex in the Nalati Range

We conducted field investigations, whole-rock geochemical, Sr-Nd and zircon U-Pb-Lu-Hf isotopic analyses on a suite of intrusive complex in the southern Nalati Range, SW Chinese Tianshan in order to better understand the Paleozoic tectonic and magmatic evolution of the belt. The intrusive complex comprises weakly foliated diorite, low-grade altered diabase, and deformed monzogranite; these plutonic rocks were in turn crosscut by undeformed coarse-grained diorite, granodiorite as well as granite stock. Foliated Late Silurian diorites (421 ± 4 Ma) show arc-type geochemical features, slightly negative whole-rock εNd(t) value (− 1.7; T_DM-Nd = 1.52 Ga) and variably positive zircon εHf(t) values (2.34 to 7.27; T_DM-Hf: 0.95– 1.26 Ga). Deformed Early Devonian porphyritic monzogranites (411 ± 4 Ma) show geochemical features similar to A-type granite, and their zircon εHf(t) values range from − 6.63 to 1.02, with T_DM-Hf ages of 1.82 to 1.33 Ga. Metamorphosed Early Devonian diabases (ca. 410 Ma) have OIB-like REE patterns, εNd(t) values of − 2.0 ~ − 0.8 and T_DM-Nd ages of 1.37– 1.25 Ga. The undeformed Early Carboniferous diorite and granodiorite (353– 344 Ma) exhibit arc-type geochemical features, positive εHf(t) values of 6.11– 7.91 with T_DM-Hf ages of 0.97– 0.86 Ga, and positive εNd(t) value of 1.9 with T_DM-Nd age of 1.04 Ga. The Early Permian granite stock (292 ± 5 Ma) has highly differentiated REE pattern, slightly negative εNd(t) value (− 4.4) and variable zircon εHf(t) values of − 9.73– 6.36. Combining with available data, Early Paleozoic (500– 410 Ma) arc-related magmatic rocks occurring on both sides of the suture zone along the southern Nalati Range, likely resulted from a bi-directional subduction of the Paleo-Tianshan Ocean beneath the Yili Block to the north and the Central Tianshan to the south. Occurrences of A-type granites and OIB-like diabases (ca. 410 Ma) along the Nalati Range likely indicate a hot extensional regime probably induced by the break off of the northward subducting slab of the Paleo-Tianshan Ocean. The closure of the Paleo-Tianshan Ocean and subsequent amalgamation during Early Carboniferous resulted in the regional deformation and metamorphism of the Early Paleozoic arc-related magmatic rocks. From Early to Late Carboniferous, a magmatic arc that corresponded to the well-developed Late Paleozoic Balkhash-Yili active continental margin, superimposed upon the southern Yili Block, most likely resulted from the southward subduction of the Junggar-North Tianshan Ocean. After the closure of the North Tianshan Ocean in Late Carboniferous, the study area was dominated by post-orogenic magmatism.     

Lithogeochemical,Re–Os and U–Pb Geochronological,Hf–Lu and S–Pb Isotope Data of the Ga'erqiong‐Galale Cu–Au Ore‐Concentrated Area: Evidence for the Late Cretaceous Magmatism and Metallogenic Event in the Bangong‐Nujiang Suture Zone,Northwestern Tibet,China

The Ga'erqiong‐Galale skarn–porphyry copper–gold ore‐concentrated area is located in the western part of the Bangong‐Nujiang suture zone north of the Lhasa Terrane. This paper conducted a systematic study on the magmatism and metallogenic effect in the ore‐concentrated area using techniques of isotopic geochronology, isotopic geochemistry and lithogeochemistry. According to the results, the crystallization age of quartz diorite (ore‐forming mother rock) in the Ga'erqiong deposit is 87.1 ± 0.4 Ma, which is later than the age of granodiorite (ore‐forming mother rock) in the Galale deposit (88.1 ± 1.0 Ma). The crystallization age of granite porphyry (GE granite porphyry) in the Ga'erqiong deposit is 83.2 ± 0.7 Ma, which is later than the age of granite porphyry (GL granite porphyry) in the Galale deposit (84.7 ± 0.8 Ma).The quartz diorite, granodiorite, GE granite porphyry and GL granite porphyry both main shows positive ε_Hf(t) values, suggesting that the magmatic source of the main intrusions in the ore‐concentrated area has the characteristics of mantle source region. The Re–Os isochron age of molybdenite in the Ga'erqiong district is 86.9 ± 0.5 Ma, which is later than the mineralization age of the Galale district (88.6 ± 0.6 Ma). The main intrusive rocks in the ore‐concentrated area have similar lithogeochemical characteristics, for they both show the relative enrichment in large‐ion lithophile elements(LILE: Rb, Ba, K, etc.), more mobile highly incompatible lithophile elements(HILE: U, Th) and relatively depleted in high field strength elements (HFSE: Nb, Ta, Zr, Hf, etc.), and show the characteristics of magmatic arc. The studies on the metal sulfides' S and Pb isotopes and Re content of molybdenite indicate that the metallogenic materials of the deposits in the ore‐concentrated area mainly come from the mantle source with minor crustal source contamination. Based on the regional tectonic evolution process, this paper points out that the Ga'erqiong‐Galale copper–gold ore‐concentrated area is the typical product of the Late Cretaceous magmatism and metallogenic event in the collision stage of the Bangong‐Nujiang suture zone.     

Petrology,geochemistry, and geochronology of boninitic dikes from the Kangqiong ophiolite: implications for the Early Cretaceous evolution of Bangong–Nujiang Neo-Tethys Ocean in Tibet

The Kangqiong ophiolite is exposed in the central–western part of the Bangong–Nujiang suture zone (BNSZ) of central Tibet. This study reports new data for boninitic dikes with the aim of reconstructing the geodynamic and petrogenetic evolution of the Kangqiong ophiolite. Ten samples of boninitic dikes that cross-cut the mafic cumulates have very low TiO₂ (0.34–0.42%) contents and high MgO (6.65–8.25%) contents. LA-ICP-MS U–Pb analyses of zircon from the boninitic dikes yield an age of 115 Ma. They are characterized by positive εHf(t) values varying from +13.1 to +15.0. Taking into account the geochemical characteristics of the mantle section, the Kangqiong ophiolite should be generated in a fore-arc spreading setting resulting from intra-oceanic subduction. Based on our data and previous studies, we propose that the BNSZ represents the major suture and records the Early Cretaceous intra-oceanic subduction of the Bangong–Nujiang Neo-Tethys Ocean, and the Shiquan River–Yongzhu–Jiali ophiolitic mélange belt represents a back-arc basin. These two belts, together with the northern Lhasa subterrane should, represent an Early Cretaceous intra-oceanic subduction system and back-arc basin in central Tibet that is similar to present-day active intra-oceanic subduction systems in the western Pacific Ocean. The final closure of the Bangong–Nujiang Neo-Tethys Ocean might have taken place later than the Early Cretaceous.     

Geochronology and geochemistry of early Mesozoic magmatism in the northeastern North China Craton: Implications for tectonic evolution

This paper reports geochronological, geochemical, zircon U–Pb and Hf–O isotopic data of the Late Triassic and Early Jurassic intrusive rocks in the northeastern North China Craton (NCC), with the aim of reconstructing the tectonic evolution and constraining the spatial–temporal extent of multiple tectonic regimes during the early Mesozoic. Zircon U–Pb ages indicate that the early Mesozoic magmatism in the northeastern NCC can be subdivided into two stages: Late Triassic (221–219 Ma) and Early Jurassic (180–177 Ma). Late Triassic magmatism produced mainly granodiorite and monzogranite, which occur as a NE–SW-trending belt parallel to the Sulu–Jingji Belt. Geochemically, they are classified as high-K calc-alkaline and metaluminous to weakly peraluminous granitoids, and are enriched in large-ion lithophile elements (LILEs) and light rare earth elements (LREEs), and depleted in high-field-strength elements (HFSEs; e.g., Nb, Ta, Ti, and P) and heavy rare earth elements (HREEs), indicating an affinity to adakite. Combined with their ε_Hf(t) values (−17.9 to −3.2) and two-stage model ages (2387–1459 Ma), we conclude that the Late Triassic granitoid magma in the northeastern NCC was derived from partial melting of the thickened lower crust of the NCC and was related to deep subduction and collision between the NCC and the Yangtze Craton (YC). The Early Jurassic magmatism is composed mainly of monzogranites, which are classified as metaluminous, high-K calc-alkaline, and I-type granite. Their ε_Hf(t) values and two-stage model ages are −16.7 to −4.2 and 2282–1491 Ma, respectively. Compared with the Late Triassic granitoids, the Early Jurassic granitoids have relatively high HREE contents, similar to calc-alkaline igneous rocks in an active continental margin setting. These Early Jurassic granitoids, together with the coeval calc-alkaline volcanic rocks and gabbro–diorite–granodiorite association in the northeastern (NE) Asian continental margin, comprise a NNE–SSW-trending belt parallel to the NE Asian continental margin, indicative of the onset of Paleo-Pacific Plate subduction beneath Eurasia.     

U–Pb dating of zircon and cassiterite from the Early Cretaceous Jiaojiguan iron-tin polymetallic deposit,implications for magmatism and metallogeny of the Tengchong area,western Yunnan,China

The newly discovered Jiaojiguan deposit, a medium-scale skarn iron-tin polymetallic deposit on the Sino-Burma boundary of Yunnan Province (SW China), is spatially associated with the biotite monzonitic granite. Here, we report new in situ zircon LA-MC-ICP-MS U–Pb ages, trace element and Hf isotope data from the granite, and U–Pb dating ages of cassiterite from the ore bodies. In this study, we obtain a weighted mean ²⁰⁶Pb/²³⁸U age of 124.1 ± 1.4 Ma for the zircon and a ²⁰⁷Pb/²⁰⁶Pb-²³⁸U/²⁰⁶Pb intercept age of 123.8 ± 2.2 Ma for the cassiterite. The granite crystallized during the Early Cretaceous, with zircons exhibiting εHf(t) values from ?5.8 to ?0.6 and two-stage Hf model ages (T_DM2) of 1.21–1.54 Ga. The close temporal and spatial links between pluton emplacement and ore-forming events suggest that magmatic-hydrothermal events were the key factors that triggered the genesis of the iron-tin polymetallic deposits in the area. Regional geochronological data show that tin mineralization took place three times during the Cretaceous–Palaeogene in the Tengchong block due to re-melting of the underlying supposed Proterozoic (1.5 ± 0.5 Ga) Sn-rich strata/materials. Compared with those in the Bangong–Nujiang metallogenic belt (BNMB), we propose that the Cretaceous iron-tin polymetallic mineralization events in Tengchong–Baoshan closely resemble those of the Bangong–Nujiang belt in northern Tibet, both of which have experienced similar tectono-magmatic-metallogenic histories since the Mesozoic.