Deformation-induced trace element redistribution in zircon revealed using atom probe tomography

Sandra Piazolo (), Alexandre La Fontaine, Patrick Trimby, Simon Harley, Limei Yang, Richard Armstrong and Julie M. Cairney
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Sandra Piazolo: Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Core to Crust Fluid Systems/GEMOC, Macquarie University
Alexandre La Fontaine: Australian Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis, University of Sydney
Patrick Trimby: Australian Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis, University of Sydney
Simon Harley: School of Geosciences, Grant Institute, University of Edinburgh
Limei Yang: Australian Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis, University of Sydney
Richard Armstrong: Research School of Earth Sciences, Australian National University
Julie M. Cairney: Australian Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis, University of Sydney

Nature Communications, 2016, vol. 7, issue 1, 1-7

Abstract: Abstract Trace elements diffuse negligible distances through the pristine crystal lattice in minerals: this is a fundamental assumption when using them to decipher geological processes. For example, the reliable use of the mineral zircon (ZrSiO4) as a U-Th-Pb geochronometer and trace element monitor requires minimal radiogenic isotope and trace element mobility. Here, using atom probe tomography, we document the effects of crystal–plastic deformation on atomic-scale elemental distributions in zircon revealing sub-micrometre-scale mechanisms of trace element mobility. Dislocations that move through the lattice accumulate U and other trace elements. Pipe diffusion along dislocation arrays connected to a chemical or structural sink results in continuous removal of selected elements (for example, Pb), even after deformation has ceased. However, in disconnected dislocations, trace elements remain locked. Our findings have important implications for the use of zircon as a geochronometer, and highlight the importance of deformation on trace element redistribution in minerals and engineering materials.

Date: 2016
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DOI: 10.1038/ncomms10490

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