Pressure-temperature conditions in the Wadi Kid metamorphic complex: Implications for the pan-african event in SE Sinai

Geothermobarometry using continuous equilibria in pelitic rocks of the central and northeastern Wadi Kid areas, Sinai, yields pressure estimates of 320 MPa (3.2 kbar) and temperature estimates of 565° C and >620° C for staurolite-andalusite zone assemblages and anatectic rocks, respectively. This corresponds to geothermal gradients of 47° C/km and 50° C/km. TheseP-T conditions are shown to be compatible with burial under a volcanic cover. The principal heat source for high-grade metamorphism and anatexis is thought to be rising magmatic diapirs. Uplift was relatively slow and the final stages of heating and early stages of cooling probably occurred isobarically. The data imply a high heat flow regime for the Pan-African event in Sinai.