Some Problems of Clastogenic Mica Transformation during Anchimetamorphism (Metagenesis)

The transformation of clastogenic muscovite and biotite from the Tyumen superdeep well was studied with the SEM and microprobe techniques. It was shown that under conditions of anchimetamorphism (metagenesis), the white mica becomes unstable and may be replaced by several newly formed minerals. In particular, the brammallite, a sodic analogue of illite, is formed at the expense of sodic component of muscovite. The chloritization of mica provokes the removal of excess silica, which is present in the anchizone as a readily soluble in water modification rather than quartz. The release of excess silica as a result of clastogenic mica destruction may be a source of rock silification. As follows from the review of experimental data on silica solubility, the replacement of many silicate minerals leads to the formation of excess silica. This process can be highly extensive during the breakdown of clastogenic minerals.