The Behaviour of Monazite during Metamorphism and Crustal Reworking

Project Details

The recent development of in-situ analysis of accessory phases for geochronology has lead to a revolution in the way in which age data and the structural and metamorphic histories of rocks systems are linked. One of the most recent developments is the use of the electron microprobe to produce chemical Th-U-Pb ages of monazite, allowing rapid and comparatively precise determination of age data form metamorphic and igneous rocks. However, while the global database of monazite EPMA analysis is rapidly expanding, it is apparent that the behaviour of accessary phases such as monazite during metamorphism and deformation is still largely unknown.

This project we will explore the way in which monazite responds to tectonic overprinting by examining its behaviour in systems that have undergone tectonic reworking. The project will examine the response of monazite to younger partial melting events and anhydrous and hydrous shear zone development.

In addition the project will also:

1. explore the use of monazite as a recorder of the isotopic compositions of fluids associated with mid and lower crustal rehydration events
2. explore the interplay between monazite growth and rock bulk composition during both subsolidous and suprasolidous regimes.

Supervisors