Publication Date:
2012-10-20
Description:
Lithium elemental and isotopic compositions of 33 glass and whole-rock samples from nine oceanic island regions were determined to characterize the Li inventory of the deep mantle. The Li contents of the investigated lavas range from 1·5 to 13·3 μg g – 1 , whereas 7 Li ranges from 2·4 to 4·8. There are weak co-variations between the Li/Y, 7 Li, and Sr–Nd–Pb isotope compositions of the lavas, indicating that the Li elemental and isotopic characteristics of ocean island basalt to some extent reflect mantle source heterogeneity. In detail, HIMU-type lavas are characterized by 7 Li values (up to 4·8) slightly heavier than those for average normal mid-ocean ridge basalt (3·4 ± 1·4) and by comparatively low Li contents; EM1-type lavas are characterized by isotopically light Li (average 3·2) and relative Li enrichment, whereas EM2-type lavas tend to heavier 7 Li values (up to 4·4) with high Li concentrations. The Li contents and isotope characteristics of HIMU-type lavas are consistent with recycling of altered and dehydrated oceanic crust, whereas those of the EM1-type lavas can be attributed to sediment recycling. The Li characteristics of EM2-type lavas may reflect reworking of mantle wedge material that has been infiltrated by fluids derived from the subducting plate.
Print ISSN:
0022-3530
Electronic ISSN:
1460-2415
Topics:
Geosciences
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