A cluster of serpentinite bodies has been recognized tectonically emplaced within the greenschist-amphibolite-facies metamorphic terrane in Hong'an,western Dabie orogen,central China.Two types of serpentinites are...A cluster of serpentinite bodies has been recognized tectonically emplaced within the greenschist-amphibolite-facies metamorphic terrane in Hong'an,western Dabie orogen,central China.Two types of serpentinites are identified on the basis of integrated petrographic,mineralogical and geochemical study.The first type,represented by Yinshanzhai serpentinite complex(Group 1)comprises heterogeneous lithology as a massive serpentinite matrix“intruded”by antigoriteenriched serpentinite lenses.They are both pseudomorphic textured with different mineral assemblages indicating an increasing temperature-pressure condition.Serpentinite matrix(Group 1a)is chemically characterized by high MgO/SiO_(2)and low Al_(2)O_(3)/SiO_(2),Ti and Ca contents,suggesting a depleted mantle wedge origin.The coexistence of compositionally-heterogeneous chromite with highCr^(#)(0.78-0.96)and intermediate-Cr^(#)(0.59-0.70)pristine cores indicates extensive mantle melting.Meanwhile,extremely high Fo olivine relicts(96-97)with considerably higher MnO and lower NiO contents than mantle olivine indicate that they are metamorphic products from serpentine decomposition.Accordingly,we propose that Yinshanzhai serpentinite complex experienced two distinct episodes of hydration.The serpentinite lenses(Group 1b)show higher SiO_(2)and lower MgO concentrations.Nevertheless,the trace elements of groups 1a and 1b are consistent:U-shaped REE patterns,positive Eu anomalies and enrichment of LILE(i.e.,Cs,U)are all identified as forearc properties.They are affected by reducing slab-derived fluids in forearc mantle,with f_(O2)of 1 to 2 logarithmic units below f_(O2)of fayalite-magnetite-quartz buffer(FMQ-2~FMQ-1).The second type is antigorite-serpentinites(Group2)represented by Ximaoshan and Wangchunwan blocks.They are non-pseudomorphic,with no primary framework silicate surviving.Fertile compositions(i.e.,higher Al_(2)O_(3)and Al_(2)O_(3)/SiO_(2),nearly flat REE patterns)and conjoint enrichment of LILE with HFSE suggest melt/rock interaction.Negative Ce,Eu anomalies,and enriched U relative to alkaline elements demonstrate interactions with more oxidized seawater or seafloor fluids(FMQ~FMQ-1).Remarkable Sr negative anomalies may be attributed to Sr release during lizardite/antigorite transition in subduction zone,indicating interaction with low-Sr slab fluids.We propose that Group 2 serpentinites originate either from mantle wedge or abyssal peridotites,refertilized by mantle melts,then hydrated in seafloor or shallow forearc and entrapped into subduction channel.Combined with geochronology and tectonic constraints of associated eclogites in Hong'an terrane,the two types of serpentinites may correlate with subduction of different oceanic basins during the late Paleozoic and/or Proterozoic eras.It raises possibility of defining an ophiolitic setting in Hong'an Orogen for which further evidence is required.展开更多
The Gysian ophiolite of NW Iran is located at the intersection of the ophiolite belts of SE Turkey,NE Iraq,and Iran,and provides the opportunity to investigate the preserved subduction and obduction history of an impo...The Gysian ophiolite of NW Iran is located at the intersection of the ophiolite belts of SE Turkey,NE Iraq,and Iran,and provides the opportunity to investigate the preserved subduction and obduction history of an important tectonic site that has not previously been studied.The serpentinized peridotites of the Gysian ophiolite contain the assemblagelizardite+chrysotile+spinel/Mg-spinelwith relict clinopyroxene(diopside)and very rare relict orthopyroxene and olivine.The compositions of clinopyroxenes and spinels are more consistent with the formation of the inferred protolithharzburgitesinafore-arcorsupra-subduction zone instead of an abyssal environment.The Gysian ophiolite is a remnant of the Neo-Tethyan arc-ophiolitic system and records shallow subduction(<50 km,indicated by the absence of antigorite)in the Late Cretaceous to Paleocene beforeobductionalongthrustfaultsoverthecontinental margin.We review the spatial trends of the metamorphic grade of the Neo-Tethyan ophiolites in this region and provide detailed information about the petrology and mineral chemistry of the Gysian ophiolite.展开更多
The serpentinite blocks of Indikolapelessa, located along an identified litho-tectonic boundary between the Highland Complex （HC） and the Vijayan Complex （VC） of Sri Lanka, have undergone extensive lateralization ...The serpentinite blocks of Indikolapelessa, located along an identified litho-tectonic boundary between the Highland Complex （HC） and the Vijayan Complex （VC） of Sri Lanka, have undergone extensive lateralization with metal enrichment. Characteristic serpentinite vegetation with some endemic species was recognized in the soils and supergene deposits develop on serpentinite lithology. This type of geological and ecological relationship forms vegetation covers on serpentinite lithologies which are sharply demarcated from the surrounding metamorphic terrains. The aforesaid ＂geo-ecological phenomenon＂ can be used as a tool for geo-vegetation mapping in ultramafic terrains to trace the geological boundaries in landscapes where rock outcrops are virtually absent. We success- fully applied the concept of geo-vegetation mapping in order to demarcate the boundary of underlain serpentinite rocks from surrounding non-serpentinite metamorphic rocks （e.g. granitic gneiss）. The hypothesis was supported by the geochemical variations of soils/supergene deposits found at serpen- tinite and non-serpentinite sites, especially immobile elements and some trace elements. Based on whole rock chemistry and soil chemical data obtained, we suggest that the Indikolapelessa serpentinite outcrop, together with the other four serpentinite outcrops, is more likely to represent the Mg-rich mantle fragments at the time of overthrusting of the two crustal blocks of HC and VC during the Pan- African event.展开更多
The uvarovite-andradite and uvarovite-andradite-grossular solid-solution series are rare in nature.The discovery of uvarovite-andradite in serpentinite and rodingite from the ultra-high pressure(UHP)metamorphic belt i...The uvarovite-andradite and uvarovite-andradite-grossular solid-solution series are rare in nature.The discovery of uvarovite-andradite in serpentinite and rodingite from the ultra-high pressure(UHP)metamorphic belt in southwestern Tianshan provided an opportunity to investigate its behavior in the subduction zone.Uvarovite(defined as chromiumgarnet)from serpentinite is homogeneous in a single grain,covering compositions in the uvarovite-andradite solid solution series of Adr_(58-66)Uv_(33-41),with few grossular components.Uvarovite from rodingites contain various Cr_(2)O_(3) contents(1.7-17.9 wt%)and mineral compositions being in the range of Adr_(21-31)Uv_(41-50)Grs_(22-37),Adr_(52-90)Uv_(5-25)Grs_(0-21) and Adr_(19-67)Uv_(3-63)Grs_(13-42).Discontinuous chemical variation of uvarovite from core to rim indicates that uvarovite formed by consuming andradite and chromite,which could provide Ca,Cr,Al and Fe.Raman signals of water were identified for uvarovite from both serpentinite and rodingite,with high water content in uvarovite from serpentinite.The high pressure mineral assemblage,as well as the association with perovskite,indicated that the studied uvarovite from serpentinite and rodingite was formed through high pressure metamorphism,during the subduction zone serpentinization and rodingitization.High alkaline and highly reduced fluids released from serpentinization or rodingitization in the oceanic subduction zone promote the mobility of chromium and enable its long-distance migration.展开更多
In this paper we describe a route to produce crystalline Mg（OH）2 nanopowders from serpentinite ore distributed in the Halilovskiy array （Russia, Orenburg region）. An efficient extraction route consisting of treatm...In this paper we describe a route to produce crystalline Mg（OH）2 nanopowders from serpentinite ore distributed in the Halilovskiy array （Russia, Orenburg region）. An efficient extraction route consisting of treatment on serpentinite in 40% HNO3 at 80 ℃followed by NH4OH titration for Mg（OH）2 precipitation was demonstrated. In this study, crystalline Mg（OH）2 nanopowders have been synthesized by solvothermal reaction method using （Mg（NO3）2·6H2O） which were obtained from serpentinite, NH4OH as a precipitator, and hydroxyethylated nonylphenol as surface-active substance. Microstructure and phase composition of samples were investigated employing scanning electron microscopy （SEM） and transmission electron microscopy （TEM）, X-ray phase analysis （XRD）, and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy （ICP-OES）. XRD reveals that Mg（OH）2 nanopowder with high purity has the brucite structure. It was found that crystalline Mg（OH）2 nanopowders exclusively consist of lamellar-like structures and the sizes of Mg（OH）2 are 30-265 nm length or width.展开更多
Lichi melange,located in the southern coastal range,eastern Taiwan,China,is a typical tectonic melange of the plate's boundary zone between the Eurasian Plate and the Philippine Sea Plate.It formed during the coll...Lichi melange,located in the southern coastal range,eastern Taiwan,China,is a typical tectonic melange of the plate's boundary zone between the Eurasian Plate and the Philippine Sea Plate.It formed during the collision of the Luzon arc with the Eurasian Continent (arc-continent collision).It is composed of sandstone and/or mudstone matrix and many kinds and sizes of rock fragments,including some sedimentary rocks,volcanic rocks and a few metamorphic rocks.The serpentinite is one of the common fragments in the Lichi melange.By the petrographic characteristics and the zircon U-Pb chronology analyses,protolith of the serpentinite is peridotite,the age is 17.7 ±0.5 Ma.Taking the tectonic background into account,it is inferred that the serpentinite (serpentinised peridotite)come from the forearc basin (the North Luzon Trough)and was taken into the melange by a second thrust westwards.The origin of the serpentimte in Lichi melange is helpful to understand the formation of the Lichi melange and can provide reliable detailed information for the study of the arc-continent collision orogenic activity in and offshore Taiwan.展开更多
The uniaxial compressive strength(UCS)of intact rock is one of the most important parameters required and determined for rock mechanics studies in engineering projects.The limitations and difficulty of conducting test...The uniaxial compressive strength(UCS)of intact rock is one of the most important parameters required and determined for rock mechanics studies in engineering projects.The limitations and difficulty of conducting tests on rocks,specifically on thinly bedded,highly fractured,highly porous and weak rocks,as well as the fact that these tests are destructive,expensive and time-consuming,lead to development of soft computing-based techniques.Application of artificial neural networks(ANNs)for predicting UCS has become an attractive alternative for geotechnical engineering scientists.In this study,an ANN was designed with the aim of indirectly predicting UCS through the serpentinization percentage,and physical,dynamic and mechanical characteristics of serpentinites.For this purpose,data obtained in earlier experimental work from central Greece were used.The ANN-based results were compared with the experimental ones and those obtained from previous analysis.The proposed ANN-based formula was found to be very efficient in predicting UCS values and the samples could be classified with simple physical,dynamic and mechanical tests,thus the expensive,difficult,time-consuming and destructive mechanical tests could be avoided.展开更多
The term "mélange" has several definitions due to the origin, tectonic and petrographical features. The geotechnical engineering behaviors of mélanges are either dominated by different kinds of int...The term "mélange" has several definitions due to the origin, tectonic and petrographical features. The geotechnical engineering behaviors of mélanges are either dominated by different kinds of intact rock blocks or matrix material. Landslides were encountered within the serpentinite matrix of Ankara Mélange, which is a typical bimrock mass. The residual sections of the extremely altered serpentinites are sandy soils. Such soils undergo rapid change of saturation, leading to shear strength reduction. Undisturbed and disturbed samples were obtained from the outcrops for shear box tests. Geochemical and petrographical composition of the serpentinites were determined by XRF(X Ray Fluorescence), XRD(X-ray diffraction) and thin section inspections, in order to outline the alteration process. Based on field observations, physically decomposed core stones exist beneath 40-120 cm thick residual green and grey-dark grey residual sandy soil. Physical and mechanical properties of the soils were tested with particular emphasis on residual shear strength parameters. Disturbed samples were remolded by standard compaction. The field work was completed during both rainy and summer seasons. Disturbed samples were prepared using phase diagrams in order to attain varying saturation degree. Two distinct sandy soil groups were determined through classification tests. The volumetric compression and/or expansion of the loose and dense samples were also considered based on the angle of dilatancy. A series of consolidated and drained shear box tests were conducted with ascending degree of saturation. The reduction of effective apparent cohesion, internal friction angle and dilatancy angle were determined to obtain a threshold of the degree of saturation. All the sand samples had zero residual internal friction angle and/or apparent cohesion after reaching 70% degree of saturation.展开更多
Serpentinites from the inside corner high （6°38.5′S/68°19.34′E） from the Northern Central Indian Ridge （NCIR） are comprised mainly of high Mg-rich lizardite and chrysotile pseudomorphs with varying mor...Serpentinites from the inside corner high （6°38.5′S/68°19.34′E） from the Northern Central Indian Ridge （NCIR） are comprised mainly of high Mg-rich lizardite and chrysotile pseudomorphs with varying morphologies. ＇Mesh rim＇, ＇window＇, ＇hourglass＇ and ＇bastite＇ are the most common textures displayed by both chrysotile and lizardite. Numerous chrysotile veins in association with cross cutting magnetite veins indicate an advanced stage of serpentinisation. The relatively high abundance of chrysotile and lizardite suggest their close association and formation at a temperature below 250℃. Abundant ＇mesh rim＇ and ＇bastite＇ texture and variegated matrix reveal that the present serpentinites might have formed due to the interaction of harzburgite and seawater. Positive Eu anomaly （Eu/Eu^＊ up to ＋3.38）, higher La/Sm （up to 4.40） and Nb/La （up to 6.34） ratios suggest substantial hydrothermal influence during the formation of the serpentinites.展开更多
The well preserved eclogitic rocks of the Tso Morari dome in eastern Ladakh, northwest Himalaya, provide information relevant to the exhumation of high pressure/low temperature rocks, and the early stage of the Himala...The well preserved eclogitic rocks of the Tso Morari dome in eastern Ladakh, northwest Himalaya, provide information relevant to the exhumation of high pressure/low temperature rocks, and the early stage of the Himalayan orogeny. The Tso Morari unit outcrops south of the Indus suture zone (Fig.1). The eclogitic dome is underlined on its eastern part by the Zildat normal fault where serpentinite lenses and partially hydrated peridotites are abundant. The close association of the high pressure rocks and serpentinites suggests a possible role of serpentinites in the exhumation of ultrahigh\|pressure rocks. To evaluate this possibility, geochemical analyses were carried out on the serpentinites closely associated with the Tso Morari eclogites.展开更多
Ultra-high pressure（UHP）eclogites that derive from subducted oceanic crust are rarely found at the Earth’s surface because they need to be enclosed in a buoyant host rock such as serpentinites that facilitate exhum...Ultra-high pressure（UHP）eclogites that derive from subducted oceanic crust are rarely found at the Earth’s surface because they need to be enclosed in a buoyant host rock such as serpentinites that facilitate exhumation（Hermann et al.,2000;Guillot et al.,2001）.Under normal subduction geotherms,serpentinites break down just before UHP conditions are reached and therefore most of the exhumed eclogites representing subducted oceanic crust formed under fore-arc conditions.We investigated eclogite blocks enclosed into serpentinites that occur in the southwestern Tianshan oceanic subduction,China.A previous study proved that the serpentinites derive from altered oceanic crust and experienced UHP metamorphism at low temperatures of 510-530°C（Shen et al.,2015）.Three relatively fresh eclogite samples were studied in detail.Sample 129-7 shows the retrograde mineral assemblage of amphibole+biotite+albite+chlorite+minor titanite and peak metamorphic relics of omphacite+garnet±chlorite.Sample C107-23 is mainly composed of amphibole+albite+chlorite+zoisite+muscovite+minor titanite as a retrograde assemblage and garnet+phengite as the peak metamorphic relics with omphacite only found as inclusions in garnet.Similar to sample C107-23,sample C11066 preserves large-grained euhedral to subhedral garnet relics with omphacite inclusions,and epidote,diopside,amphibole,muscovite,chlorite,albite and biotite are in the matrix belong to the retrograde assemblage.These three retrograde eclogite samples were modelled using thermodynamic calculations in the Mn NCKFMSHO（Mn O-Na;O-Ca O-K;O-FeO-Mg O-Al;O;-SiO;-H;O-Fe;O;）system.Based on the peak assemblage of omphacite+garnet and the crossing of the grossular and pyrope isopleths in garnet,peak P-T conditions of;60-470oC,28-29 kbar（129-7）,450-500oC,28-35 kbar（C107-23）,;75-505oC,26-29 kbar（C11066）were calculated.The retrograde assemblages indicate near isothermal decompression resulting in a clockwise P-T evolution of these eclogites.The peak metamorphic pressures at 500°C are well within UHP conditions（coesite stability field）and are within error the same as peak conditions of the host serpentinites（Shen et al.,2015）.This provides evidence that eclogites and serpentinites shared the same evolution.We infer that the subducted low-density serpentinites were assembled with the high-density eclogites during subdution and helped the latter to exhume back to the surface.The studied eclogites thus represent rare examples of relics of oceanic crust that was subducted to sub-arc depth.展开更多
Ultra-high pressure(UHP)eclogites that derive from subducted oceanic crust are rarely found at the Earth’s surface because they need to be enclosed in a buoyant host rock such as serpentinites that facilitate exhumation
Forest fires are one of the commonest natural hazards. Forest fires make the largest contribution to CO2 emissions after the burning of fossil fuels. Here a new technology is proposed to extinguish forest fires not wi...Forest fires are one of the commonest natural hazards. Forest fires make the largest contribution to CO2 emissions after the burning of fossil fuels. Here a new technology is proposed to extinguish forest fires not with water, but with a slurry of serpentine. Serpentinites are abundantly available in many countries on every continent. If serpentine is calcined, it weathers very fast and captures CO2. Calcination, however, requires a lot of heat, which makes it counterproductive to produce calcined serpentine for CO2 capture. In cases, however, where heat is the problem, like in forest fires, one can extinguish them to greater advantage by using serpentinite slurries instead of plain water. The calcined residue that is left as a thin cake on the burning material prevents oxygen to reach the burning material. It also prevents the escape of inflammable gases, and the calcination itself withdraws large quantities of heat from the fire. After the fire is extinguished, the calcined material in contact with the atmosphere will rapidly weather and capture CO2. This compensates part of the CO2 that is produced by the fire. In tests, where the efficacy of quenching fires with serpentine slurries was compared to the effect of water, it turned out that serpentinite slurries performed far better.展开更多
This paper presents some results of zeta potential measurements performed into biosurfactant adsorption onto magnesite and serpentinite surface. Zeta potential and isoelectric point measurement of magnesite and serpen...This paper presents some results of zeta potential measurements performed into biosurfactant adsorption onto magnesite and serpentinite surface. Zeta potential and isoelectric point measurement of magnesite and serpentinite particles before and after interaction with biosurfactant broth solution and activator （nickel（II） ion solution） were carried out. The zeta potential results show that presence of biosurfactants changes both magnesite and serpentinite surface potential by physical adsorption which increases the hydrophobicity of mineral particles. Measurements of particles zeta potential in the presence of biosurfactant broth are relevant to the minerals flotation. Hallimod flotation response of magnesite and serpentinite as a function of collector concentration was investigated. Bioflotation test results show that at the presence of broth, the flotation separation of magnesite from serpentinite is possible.展开更多
Thanks to detailed field investigations, microstructural and geochemical analysis and relationship with enclosing rocks, microfabrics, magmatic typology and metamorphic evolution of the Kantè sepentinites have be...Thanks to detailed field investigations, microstructural and geochemical analysis and relationship with enclosing rocks, microfabrics, magmatic typology and metamorphic evolution of the Kantè sepentinites have been specified for the first time. The Kantè serpentinites in northern Togo constitute a mega-lens of ultrabasic rocks tectonically intercalated in the sericite chlorite schists of the Atacora structural unit. The brecciated, schitotose or massive rock facies are strongly marked by an S1 schistocity plane superimposed by a flat C shear plane linked to a west vergence thrusting movement. The parageneses that compose the metamagmatites are essentially serpentinous, containing plagioclase, opaque minerals (magnetite, chromite, spinel) and pyroxene porphyroblasts. These microfabrics represent relics of a probable gabbroic protolith. In fact, the geochemical characteristics of the Kantè serpentinites suggest that their magmatic typology is that of komatiites or tholeiitic basalts with oceanic arc affinities. They would have been emplaced in an active margin environment. The retromorphic evolution of the protolith corresponds to the phase of involvement in a major tangential contact during the panafrican tectogenesis.展开更多
Workers carrying out actions involving potential hazards,like mining and quarrying,can be subject to health issues derived from those activities.The case of asbestosis has generated an alarm in the society.Natural sto...Workers carrying out actions involving potential hazards,like mining and quarrying,can be subject to health issues derived from those activities.The case of asbestosis has generated an alarm in the society.Natural stones are very different from each other and generalisation can cause,first an unwanted alarm,and secondly a big economic crisis in the sector of the natural stone,as it has happened before with other health issues related to exploitation and use of natural stone in architecture.This paper highlights the need for an appropriate mineralogical characterization of rocks of economic interest,such as serpentinites,to protect mining workers of health issues derived from fibrous minerals content.We have studied the possible presence of fibrous minerals in samples of serpentinites from an abandoned quarry in Galicia(North Western Spain)to consider the viability of its re-opening based on the Spanish health and safety regulations applicable to jobs at risk of exposure to asbestos.From our study,it can be concluded that there is a scarce amount of fibrous phases,pending on further studies to differentiate such fibrous minerals,and therefore the reopening of the serpentinite quarry should not be a health problem for the workers.展开更多
Introduction Serpentinites are metamorphic rocks that are produced by low grade metamorphism or hydrothermal alteration of ultramafic igneous rocks.They have been used for many centuries in the construction of major c...Introduction Serpentinites are metamorphic rocks that are produced by low grade metamorphism or hydrothermal alteration of ultramafic igneous rocks.They have been used for many centuries in the construction of major cultural and religious symbols.The serpentinization of igneous rocks is a widespread process,present in most ultramafic massifs,in which the original rock changes its mineralogical composition during phases of hydration(Moody,1976;O´Hanley,1996).The process can take place through shearing and can also affect the rock partially or totally.Today serpentinites are commonly used in construction around the world in view of their attractive structures,colours and patterns,mostly in various shades of green.But they have also been utilised in monuments.The high porosity that can be present in serpentinites up to 10%in the Appenine serpentinites(Malesani et al.,2003)can cause major problems of alteration and in durability,both indoors and outdoors,and the deterioration of the rock requires that a replacement material is quickly found.Knowledge of the composition of the rock and the provenance of the deteriorated tiles can help to preserve the exterior visual aspect of a building that has to be restored.This is vital in the case of monuments and the characterization of serpentinites should be the first step in a planned restoration of a deteriorated part of a historical building.Therefore,the importance of appropriate information on serpentinites as heritage stone resource(Cooper,2010).展开更多
The Neoproterozoic Allaqi-Heiani suture （800-700 Ma） in the south Eastern Desert of Egypt is the northernmost linear ophiolitic belt that defines an arc-arc suture in the Arabian- Nubian shield （ANS）. The Neoprote...The Neoproterozoic Allaqi-Heiani suture （800-700 Ma） in the south Eastern Desert of Egypt is the northernmost linear ophiolitic belt that defines an arc-arc suture in the Arabian- Nubian shield （ANS）. The Neoproterozoic serpentinized peridotites represent a distinct lithology of dismembered ophiolites along the Allaqi-Heiani suture zone. The alteration of peridotites varies, some contain relicts of primary minerals （Cr-spinel and olivine） and others are extremely altered, especially along thrusts and shear zones, with development of talc, talc-carbonate and quartz-carbonate. The fresh cores of the chromian spinels are rimmed by ferritchromite and Cr- magnetite. The fresh chromian spinels have high Cr# （0.62 to 0.79）, while Mg# shows wider variation （0.35-0.59）. High Cr# in the relict chromian spinels and Fo content in the primary olivines indicate that they are residual peridotites after extensive partial melting. The studied ophiolitic upper mantle peridotites are highly depleted and most probably underwent high degrees of partial melting at a supra-subduction zone setting. They can be produced by up to -20%-22% dynamic melting of a primitive mantle source. The mineralogical and geochemical features of the studied rocks reflect that the mantle peridotites of the north part of the Wadi Allaqi district are similar to the fore-arc peridotites of a supra-subduction zone.展开更多
Serpentinized rocks closely associated with Paleoproterozoic eclogitic metabasites were recently discovered at Eseka area in the northwestern edge of the Congo craton in southern Cameroon.Here,we present new field dat...Serpentinized rocks closely associated with Paleoproterozoic eclogitic metabasites were recently discovered at Eseka area in the northwestern edge of the Congo craton in southern Cameroon.Here,we present new field data,petrography,and first comprehensible wholerock geochemistry data and discuss the protolith and tectonic significance of these serpentinites in the region.The studied rock samples are characterized by pseudomorphic textures,including mesh microstructure formed by serpentine intergrowths with cores of olivine,bastites after pyroxene.Antigorite constitutes almost the whole bulk of the rocks and is associated(to the less amount)with tremolite,talc,spinel,and magnetite.Whole-rock chemistry of the Eseka serpentinites led to the distinction of two types.Type 1 has high MgO(>40 wt%)content and high Mg#values(88.80)whereas Type 2 serpentinite samples display relatively low MgO concentration and Mg#values(<40 and 82.88 wt%,respectively).Both types have low Al/Si and high Mg/Si ratios than the primitive mantle,reflecting a refractory abyssal mantle peridotite protolith.Partial melting modeling indicates that these rocks were derived from melting of spinel peridotite before serpentinization.Bulk rock high-Ti content is similar to the values of subducted serpentinites(>50 ppm).This similarity,associated with the high Cr contents,spinel-peridotite protolith compositions and Mg/Si and Al/Si ratios imply that the studied serpentinites were formed in a subductionrelated environment.The U-shaped chondrite normalizedREE patterns of serpentinized peridotites,coupled with similar enrichments in LREE and HFSE,suggest the refertilized nature due to melt/rock interaction prior to serpentinization.Based on the results,we suggest that the Eseka serpentinized peridotites are mantle residues that suffered a high degree of partial melting in a subductionrelated environment,especially in Supra Subduction Zone setting.These new findings suggest that the Nyong series in Cameroon represents an uncontested Paleoproterozoic suture zone between the Congo craton and the Sao Francisco craton in Brazil.展开更多
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.42130309)China Geological Survey(Nos.DD20160030,DD20190050)。
文摘A cluster of serpentinite bodies has been recognized tectonically emplaced within the greenschist-amphibolite-facies metamorphic terrane in Hong'an,western Dabie orogen,central China.Two types of serpentinites are identified on the basis of integrated petrographic,mineralogical and geochemical study.The first type,represented by Yinshanzhai serpentinite complex(Group 1)comprises heterogeneous lithology as a massive serpentinite matrix“intruded”by antigoriteenriched serpentinite lenses.They are both pseudomorphic textured with different mineral assemblages indicating an increasing temperature-pressure condition.Serpentinite matrix(Group 1a)is chemically characterized by high MgO/SiO_(2)and low Al_(2)O_(3)/SiO_(2),Ti and Ca contents,suggesting a depleted mantle wedge origin.The coexistence of compositionally-heterogeneous chromite with highCr^(#)(0.78-0.96)and intermediate-Cr^(#)(0.59-0.70)pristine cores indicates extensive mantle melting.Meanwhile,extremely high Fo olivine relicts(96-97)with considerably higher MnO and lower NiO contents than mantle olivine indicate that they are metamorphic products from serpentine decomposition.Accordingly,we propose that Yinshanzhai serpentinite complex experienced two distinct episodes of hydration.The serpentinite lenses(Group 1b)show higher SiO_(2)and lower MgO concentrations.Nevertheless,the trace elements of groups 1a and 1b are consistent:U-shaped REE patterns,positive Eu anomalies and enrichment of LILE(i.e.,Cs,U)are all identified as forearc properties.They are affected by reducing slab-derived fluids in forearc mantle,with f_(O2)of 1 to 2 logarithmic units below f_(O2)of fayalite-magnetite-quartz buffer(FMQ-2~FMQ-1).The second type is antigorite-serpentinites(Group2)represented by Ximaoshan and Wangchunwan blocks.They are non-pseudomorphic,with no primary framework silicate surviving.Fertile compositions(i.e.,higher Al_(2)O_(3)and Al_(2)O_(3)/SiO_(2),nearly flat REE patterns)and conjoint enrichment of LILE with HFSE suggest melt/rock interaction.Negative Ce,Eu anomalies,and enriched U relative to alkaline elements demonstrate interactions with more oxidized seawater or seafloor fluids(FMQ~FMQ-1).Remarkable Sr negative anomalies may be attributed to Sr release during lizardite/antigorite transition in subduction zone,indicating interaction with low-Sr slab fluids.We propose that Group 2 serpentinites originate either from mantle wedge or abyssal peridotites,refertilized by mantle melts,then hydrated in seafloor or shallow forearc and entrapped into subduction channel.Combined with geochronology and tectonic constraints of associated eclogites in Hong'an terrane,the two types of serpentinites may correlate with subduction of different oceanic basins during the late Paleozoic and/or Proterozoic eras.It raises possibility of defining an ophiolitic setting in Hong'an Orogen for which further evidence is required.
基金The current work is financially supported by Urmia University research branch。
文摘The Gysian ophiolite of NW Iran is located at the intersection of the ophiolite belts of SE Turkey,NE Iraq,and Iran,and provides the opportunity to investigate the preserved subduction and obduction history of an important tectonic site that has not previously been studied.The serpentinized peridotites of the Gysian ophiolite contain the assemblagelizardite+chrysotile+spinel/Mg-spinelwith relict clinopyroxene(diopside)and very rare relict orthopyroxene and olivine.The compositions of clinopyroxenes and spinels are more consistent with the formation of the inferred protolithharzburgitesinafore-arcorsupra-subduction zone instead of an abyssal environment.The Gysian ophiolite is a remnant of the Neo-Tethyan arc-ophiolitic system and records shallow subduction(<50 km,indicated by the absence of antigorite)in the Late Cretaceous to Paleocene beforeobductionalongthrustfaultsoverthecontinental margin.We review the spatial trends of the metamorphic grade of the Neo-Tethyan ophiolites in this region and provide detailed information about the petrology and mineral chemistry of the Gysian ophiolite.
基金by the Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka(No.SUSL/RG/2006/05)is acknowledged for financial support
文摘The serpentinite blocks of Indikolapelessa, located along an identified litho-tectonic boundary between the Highland Complex （HC） and the Vijayan Complex （VC） of Sri Lanka, have undergone extensive lateralization with metal enrichment. Characteristic serpentinite vegetation with some endemic species was recognized in the soils and supergene deposits develop on serpentinite lithology. This type of geological and ecological relationship forms vegetation covers on serpentinite lithologies which are sharply demarcated from the surrounding metamorphic terrains. The aforesaid ＂geo-ecological phenomenon＂ can be used as a tool for geo-vegetation mapping in ultramafic terrains to trace the geological boundaries in landscapes where rock outcrops are virtually absent. We success- fully applied the concept of geo-vegetation mapping in order to demarcate the boundary of underlain serpentinite rocks from surrounding non-serpentinite metamorphic rocks （e.g. granitic gneiss）. The hypothesis was supported by the geochemical variations of soils/supergene deposits found at serpen- tinite and non-serpentinite sites, especially immobile elements and some trace elements. Based on whole rock chemistry and soil chemical data obtained, we suggest that the Indikolapelessa serpentinite outcrop, together with the other four serpentinite outcrops, is more likely to represent the Mg-rich mantle fragments at the time of overthrusting of the two crustal blocks of HC and VC during the Pan- African event.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.41872067,41972064,41630207,41720104009,41703053)Project of the Chinese Geological Survey(Grant Nos.DD20190006,DD20190060)the Foundation of the Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences(Grant Nos.J1901-9,J1901-31,J1903)。
文摘The uvarovite-andradite and uvarovite-andradite-grossular solid-solution series are rare in nature.The discovery of uvarovite-andradite in serpentinite and rodingite from the ultra-high pressure(UHP)metamorphic belt in southwestern Tianshan provided an opportunity to investigate its behavior in the subduction zone.Uvarovite(defined as chromiumgarnet)from serpentinite is homogeneous in a single grain,covering compositions in the uvarovite-andradite solid solution series of Adr_(58-66)Uv_(33-41),with few grossular components.Uvarovite from rodingites contain various Cr_(2)O_(3) contents(1.7-17.9 wt%)and mineral compositions being in the range of Adr_(21-31)Uv_(41-50)Grs_(22-37),Adr_(52-90)Uv_(5-25)Grs_(0-21) and Adr_(19-67)Uv_(3-63)Grs_(13-42).Discontinuous chemical variation of uvarovite from core to rim indicates that uvarovite formed by consuming andradite and chromite,which could provide Ca,Cr,Al and Fe.Raman signals of water were identified for uvarovite from both serpentinite and rodingite,with high water content in uvarovite from serpentinite.The high pressure mineral assemblage,as well as the association with perovskite,indicated that the studied uvarovite from serpentinite and rodingite was formed through high pressure metamorphism,during the subduction zone serpentinization and rodingitization.High alkaline and highly reduced fluids released from serpentinization or rodingitization in the oceanic subduction zone promote the mobility of chromium and enable its long-distance migration.
基金the state on behalf of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation of the Agreement (No. 14.577.21.0111 (22 September 2014))The unique identifier of the applied research (No. RFMEFI57714X0111)
文摘In this paper we describe a route to produce crystalline Mg（OH）2 nanopowders from serpentinite ore distributed in the Halilovskiy array （Russia, Orenburg region）. An efficient extraction route consisting of treatment on serpentinite in 40% HNO3 at 80 ℃followed by NH4OH titration for Mg（OH）2 precipitation was demonstrated. In this study, crystalline Mg（OH）2 nanopowders have been synthesized by solvothermal reaction method using （Mg（NO3）2·6H2O） which were obtained from serpentinite, NH4OH as a precipitator, and hydroxyethylated nonylphenol as surface-active substance. Microstructure and phase composition of samples were investigated employing scanning electron microscopy （SEM） and transmission electron microscopy （TEM）, X-ray phase analysis （XRD）, and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy （ICP-OES）. XRD reveals that Mg（OH）2 nanopowder with high purity has the brucite structure. It was found that crystalline Mg（OH）2 nanopowders exclusively consist of lamellar-like structures and the sizes of Mg（OH）2 are 30-265 nm length or width.
基金Geological Survey Program of China Geological Survey (DD20160218, DD20160137)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (41506083,41606086,41606087,41606050, 91858208)National Key Research and Development Program of China (2017 YFC0307600,2017YFC0307704).
文摘Lichi melange,located in the southern coastal range,eastern Taiwan,China,is a typical tectonic melange of the plate's boundary zone between the Eurasian Plate and the Philippine Sea Plate.It formed during the collision of the Luzon arc with the Eurasian Continent (arc-continent collision).It is composed of sandstone and/or mudstone matrix and many kinds and sizes of rock fragments,including some sedimentary rocks,volcanic rocks and a few metamorphic rocks.The serpentinite is one of the common fragments in the Lichi melange.By the petrographic characteristics and the zircon U-Pb chronology analyses,protolith of the serpentinite is peridotite,the age is 17.7 ±0.5 Ma.Taking the tectonic background into account,it is inferred that the serpentinite (serpentinised peridotite)come from the forearc basin (the North Luzon Trough)and was taken into the melange by a second thrust westwards.The origin of the serpentimte in Lichi melange is helpful to understand the formation of the Lichi melange and can provide reliable detailed information for the study of the arc-continent collision orogenic activity in and offshore Taiwan.
文摘The uniaxial compressive strength(UCS)of intact rock is one of the most important parameters required and determined for rock mechanics studies in engineering projects.The limitations and difficulty of conducting tests on rocks,specifically on thinly bedded,highly fractured,highly porous and weak rocks,as well as the fact that these tests are destructive,expensive and time-consuming,lead to development of soft computing-based techniques.Application of artificial neural networks(ANNs)for predicting UCS has become an attractive alternative for geotechnical engineering scientists.In this study,an ANN was designed with the aim of indirectly predicting UCS through the serpentinization percentage,and physical,dynamic and mechanical characteristics of serpentinites.For this purpose,data obtained in earlier experimental work from central Greece were used.The ANN-based results were compared with the experimental ones and those obtained from previous analysis.The proposed ANN-based formula was found to be very efficient in predicting UCS values and the samples could be classified with simple physical,dynamic and mechanical tests,thus the expensive,difficult,time-consuming and destructive mechanical tests could be avoided.
基金supported by the Scientific Project Branch of Ankara University (Project no:13B4343004)
文摘The term "mélange" has several definitions due to the origin, tectonic and petrographical features. The geotechnical engineering behaviors of mélanges are either dominated by different kinds of intact rock blocks or matrix material. Landslides were encountered within the serpentinite matrix of Ankara Mélange, which is a typical bimrock mass. The residual sections of the extremely altered serpentinites are sandy soils. Such soils undergo rapid change of saturation, leading to shear strength reduction. Undisturbed and disturbed samples were obtained from the outcrops for shear box tests. Geochemical and petrographical composition of the serpentinites were determined by XRF(X Ray Fluorescence), XRD(X-ray diffraction) and thin section inspections, in order to outline the alteration process. Based on field observations, physically decomposed core stones exist beneath 40-120 cm thick residual green and grey-dark grey residual sandy soil. Physical and mechanical properties of the soils were tested with particular emphasis on residual shear strength parameters. Disturbed samples were remolded by standard compaction. The field work was completed during both rainy and summer seasons. Disturbed samples were prepared using phase diagrams in order to attain varying saturation degree. Two distinct sandy soil groups were determined through classification tests. The volumetric compression and/or expansion of the loose and dense samples were also considered based on the angle of dilatancy. A series of consolidated and drained shear box tests were conducted with ascending degree of saturation. The reduction of effective apparent cohesion, internal friction angle and dilatancy angle were determined to obtain a threshold of the degree of saturation. All the sand samples had zero residual internal friction angle and/or apparent cohesion after reaching 70% degree of saturation.
基金funded by ONR grant No.0014-97-1-0925CSIR Network Programme(COR 0006)on Indian Ocean ridges
文摘Serpentinites from the inside corner high （6°38.5′S/68°19.34′E） from the Northern Central Indian Ridge （NCIR） are comprised mainly of high Mg-rich lizardite and chrysotile pseudomorphs with varying morphologies. ＇Mesh rim＇, ＇window＇, ＇hourglass＇ and ＇bastite＇ are the most common textures displayed by both chrysotile and lizardite. Numerous chrysotile veins in association with cross cutting magnetite veins indicate an advanced stage of serpentinisation. The relatively high abundance of chrysotile and lizardite suggest their close association and formation at a temperature below 250℃. Abundant ＇mesh rim＇ and ＇bastite＇ texture and variegated matrix reveal that the present serpentinites might have formed due to the interaction of harzburgite and seawater. Positive Eu anomaly （Eu/Eu^＊ up to ＋3.38）, higher La/Sm （up to 4.40） and Nb/La （up to 6.34） ratios suggest substantial hydrothermal influence during the formation of the serpentinites.
文摘The well preserved eclogitic rocks of the Tso Morari dome in eastern Ladakh, northwest Himalaya, provide information relevant to the exhumation of high pressure/low temperature rocks, and the early stage of the Himalayan orogeny. The Tso Morari unit outcrops south of the Indus suture zone (Fig.1). The eclogitic dome is underlined on its eastern part by the Zildat normal fault where serpentinite lenses and partially hydrated peridotites are abundant. The close association of the high pressure rocks and serpentinites suggests a possible role of serpentinites in the exhumation of ultrahigh\|pressure rocks. To evaluate this possibility, geochemical analyses were carried out on the serpentinites closely associated with the Tso Morari eclogites.
文摘Ultra-high pressure（UHP）eclogites that derive from subducted oceanic crust are rarely found at the Earth’s surface because they need to be enclosed in a buoyant host rock such as serpentinites that facilitate exhumation（Hermann et al.,2000;Guillot et al.,2001）.Under normal subduction geotherms,serpentinites break down just before UHP conditions are reached and therefore most of the exhumed eclogites representing subducted oceanic crust formed under fore-arc conditions.We investigated eclogite blocks enclosed into serpentinites that occur in the southwestern Tianshan oceanic subduction,China.A previous study proved that the serpentinites derive from altered oceanic crust and experienced UHP metamorphism at low temperatures of 510-530°C（Shen et al.,2015）.Three relatively fresh eclogite samples were studied in detail.Sample 129-7 shows the retrograde mineral assemblage of amphibole+biotite+albite+chlorite+minor titanite and peak metamorphic relics of omphacite+garnet±chlorite.Sample C107-23 is mainly composed of amphibole+albite+chlorite+zoisite+muscovite+minor titanite as a retrograde assemblage and garnet+phengite as the peak metamorphic relics with omphacite only found as inclusions in garnet.Similar to sample C107-23,sample C11066 preserves large-grained euhedral to subhedral garnet relics with omphacite inclusions,and epidote,diopside,amphibole,muscovite,chlorite,albite and biotite are in the matrix belong to the retrograde assemblage.These three retrograde eclogite samples were modelled using thermodynamic calculations in the Mn NCKFMSHO（Mn O-Na;O-Ca O-K;O-FeO-Mg O-Al;O;-SiO;-H;O-Fe;O;）system.Based on the peak assemblage of omphacite+garnet and the crossing of the grossular and pyrope isopleths in garnet,peak P-T conditions of;60-470oC,28-29 kbar（129-7）,450-500oC,28-35 kbar（C107-23）,;75-505oC,26-29 kbar（C11066）were calculated.The retrograde assemblages indicate near isothermal decompression resulting in a clockwise P-T evolution of these eclogites.The peak metamorphic pressures at 500°C are well within UHP conditions（coesite stability field）and are within error the same as peak conditions of the host serpentinites（Shen et al.,2015）.This provides evidence that eclogites and serpentinites shared the same evolution.We infer that the subducted low-density serpentinites were assembled with the high-density eclogites during subdution and helped the latter to exhume back to the surface.The studied eclogites thus represent rare examples of relics of oceanic crust that was subducted to sub-arc depth.
文摘Ultra-high pressure(UHP)eclogites that derive from subducted oceanic crust are rarely found at the Earth’s surface because they need to be enclosed in a buoyant host rock such as serpentinites that facilitate exhumation
文摘Forest fires are one of the commonest natural hazards. Forest fires make the largest contribution to CO2 emissions after the burning of fossil fuels. Here a new technology is proposed to extinguish forest fires not with water, but with a slurry of serpentine. Serpentinites are abundantly available in many countries on every continent. If serpentine is calcined, it weathers very fast and captures CO2. Calcination, however, requires a lot of heat, which makes it counterproductive to produce calcined serpentine for CO2 capture. In cases, however, where heat is the problem, like in forest fires, one can extinguish them to greater advantage by using serpentinite slurries instead of plain water. The calcined residue that is left as a thin cake on the burning material prevents oxygen to reach the burning material. It also prevents the escape of inflammable gases, and the calcination itself withdraws large quantities of heat from the fire. After the fire is extinguished, the calcined material in contact with the atmosphere will rapidly weather and capture CO2. This compensates part of the CO2 that is produced by the fire. In tests, where the efficacy of quenching fires with serpentine slurries was compared to the effect of water, it turned out that serpentinite slurries performed far better.
文摘This paper presents some results of zeta potential measurements performed into biosurfactant adsorption onto magnesite and serpentinite surface. Zeta potential and isoelectric point measurement of magnesite and serpentinite particles before and after interaction with biosurfactant broth solution and activator （nickel（II） ion solution） were carried out. The zeta potential results show that presence of biosurfactants changes both magnesite and serpentinite surface potential by physical adsorption which increases the hydrophobicity of mineral particles. Measurements of particles zeta potential in the presence of biosurfactant broth are relevant to the minerals flotation. Hallimod flotation response of magnesite and serpentinite as a function of collector concentration was investigated. Bioflotation test results show that at the presence of broth, the flotation separation of magnesite from serpentinite is possible.
文摘Thanks to detailed field investigations, microstructural and geochemical analysis and relationship with enclosing rocks, microfabrics, magmatic typology and metamorphic evolution of the Kantè sepentinites have been specified for the first time. The Kantè serpentinites in northern Togo constitute a mega-lens of ultrabasic rocks tectonically intercalated in the sericite chlorite schists of the Atacora structural unit. The brecciated, schitotose or massive rock facies are strongly marked by an S1 schistocity plane superimposed by a flat C shear plane linked to a west vergence thrusting movement. The parageneses that compose the metamagmatites are essentially serpentinous, containing plagioclase, opaque minerals (magnetite, chromite, spinel) and pyroxene porphyroblasts. These microfabrics represent relics of a probable gabbroic protolith. In fact, the geochemical characteristics of the Kantè serpentinites suggest that their magmatic typology is that of komatiites or tholeiitic basalts with oceanic arc affinities. They would have been emplaced in an active margin environment. The retromorphic evolution of the protolith corresponds to the phase of involvement in a major tangential contact during the panafrican tectogenesis.
基金The University of Salamanca is acknowledged for the funding support to the Research Group CHARROCK.
文摘Workers carrying out actions involving potential hazards,like mining and quarrying,can be subject to health issues derived from those activities.The case of asbestosis has generated an alarm in the society.Natural stones are very different from each other and generalisation can cause,first an unwanted alarm,and secondly a big economic crisis in the sector of the natural stone,as it has happened before with other health issues related to exploitation and use of natural stone in architecture.This paper highlights the need for an appropriate mineralogical characterization of rocks of economic interest,such as serpentinites,to protect mining workers of health issues derived from fibrous minerals content.We have studied the possible presence of fibrous minerals in samples of serpentinites from an abandoned quarry in Galicia(North Western Spain)to consider the viability of its re-opening based on the Spanish health and safety regulations applicable to jobs at risk of exposure to asbestos.From our study,it can be concluded that there is a scarce amount of fibrous phases,pending on further studies to differentiate such fibrous minerals,and therefore the reopening of the serpentinite quarry should not be a health problem for the workers.
基金supported by the project CGL2010-18579/BTE from the Spanish government.Barry Cooper is acknowledged for his advise on the subject and for his help in the English revision.An anonymous reviewer is acknowledged for his/her advise in reorganizing the report.
文摘Introduction Serpentinites are metamorphic rocks that are produced by low grade metamorphism or hydrothermal alteration of ultramafic igneous rocks.They have been used for many centuries in the construction of major cultural and religious symbols.The serpentinization of igneous rocks is a widespread process,present in most ultramafic massifs,in which the original rock changes its mineralogical composition during phases of hydration(Moody,1976;O´Hanley,1996).The process can take place through shearing and can also affect the rock partially or totally.Today serpentinites are commonly used in construction around the world in view of their attractive structures,colours and patterns,mostly in various shades of green.But they have also been utilised in monuments.The high porosity that can be present in serpentinites up to 10%in the Appenine serpentinites(Malesani et al.,2003)can cause major problems of alteration and in durability,both indoors and outdoors,and the deterioration of the rock requires that a replacement material is quickly found.Knowledge of the composition of the rock and the provenance of the deteriorated tiles can help to preserve the exterior visual aspect of a building that has to be restored.This is vital in the case of monuments and the characterization of serpentinites should be the first step in a planned restoration of a deteriorated part of a historical building.Therefore,the importance of appropriate information on serpentinites as heritage stone resource(Cooper,2010).
文摘The Neoproterozoic Allaqi-Heiani suture （800-700 Ma） in the south Eastern Desert of Egypt is the northernmost linear ophiolitic belt that defines an arc-arc suture in the Arabian- Nubian shield （ANS）. The Neoproterozoic serpentinized peridotites represent a distinct lithology of dismembered ophiolites along the Allaqi-Heiani suture zone. The alteration of peridotites varies, some contain relicts of primary minerals （Cr-spinel and olivine） and others are extremely altered, especially along thrusts and shear zones, with development of talc, talc-carbonate and quartz-carbonate. The fresh cores of the chromian spinels are rimmed by ferritchromite and Cr- magnetite. The fresh chromian spinels have high Cr# （0.62 to 0.79）, while Mg# shows wider variation （0.35-0.59）. High Cr# in the relict chromian spinels and Fo content in the primary olivines indicate that they are residual peridotites after extensive partial melting. The studied ophiolitic upper mantle peridotites are highly depleted and most probably underwent high degrees of partial melting at a supra-subduction zone setting. They can be produced by up to -20%-22% dynamic melting of a primitive mantle source. The mineralogical and geochemical features of the studied rocks reflect that the mantle peridotites of the north part of the Wadi Allaqi district are similar to the fore-arc peridotites of a supra-subduction zone.
文摘Serpentinized rocks closely associated with Paleoproterozoic eclogitic metabasites were recently discovered at Eseka area in the northwestern edge of the Congo craton in southern Cameroon.Here,we present new field data,petrography,and first comprehensible wholerock geochemistry data and discuss the protolith and tectonic significance of these serpentinites in the region.The studied rock samples are characterized by pseudomorphic textures,including mesh microstructure formed by serpentine intergrowths with cores of olivine,bastites after pyroxene.Antigorite constitutes almost the whole bulk of the rocks and is associated(to the less amount)with tremolite,talc,spinel,and magnetite.Whole-rock chemistry of the Eseka serpentinites led to the distinction of two types.Type 1 has high MgO(>40 wt%)content and high Mg#values(88.80)whereas Type 2 serpentinite samples display relatively low MgO concentration and Mg#values(<40 and 82.88 wt%,respectively).Both types have low Al/Si and high Mg/Si ratios than the primitive mantle,reflecting a refractory abyssal mantle peridotite protolith.Partial melting modeling indicates that these rocks were derived from melting of spinel peridotite before serpentinization.Bulk rock high-Ti content is similar to the values of subducted serpentinites(>50 ppm).This similarity,associated with the high Cr contents,spinel-peridotite protolith compositions and Mg/Si and Al/Si ratios imply that the studied serpentinites were formed in a subductionrelated environment.The U-shaped chondrite normalizedREE patterns of serpentinized peridotites,coupled with similar enrichments in LREE and HFSE,suggest the refertilized nature due to melt/rock interaction prior to serpentinization.Based on the results,we suggest that the Eseka serpentinized peridotites are mantle residues that suffered a high degree of partial melting in a subductionrelated environment,especially in Supra Subduction Zone setting.These new findings suggest that the Nyong series in Cameroon represents an uncontested Paleoproterozoic suture zone between the Congo craton and the Sao Francisco craton in Brazil.
