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The localised distribution of U and other incompatible elements in spilitic pillow lavas

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Abstract

The fission track technique was used not only to determine the U distribution, but indirectly, to locate the host minerals of other incompatible elements such as P, Ti, Y, Zr and Nb in spilitic pillow lavas from SW England. The majority of U was introduced early in the alteration process probably due to interaction with sea-water. At a later stage in the process, these elements, some previously considered to be relatively immobile during low-grade alteration, were mobilised and subsequently redeposited in stable secondary phases. The hydrothermal fluid responsible for mobility was rich in CO2 and H2O. Carbonate complexes were the most likely mobile species.

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Williams, C.T., Floyd, P.A. The localised distribution of U and other incompatible elements in spilitic pillow lavas. Contr. Mineral. and Petrol. 78, 111–117 (1981). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00373772

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00373772

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