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Fractional crystallization models and B–Be–Li systematics at Mt Somma-Vesuvius volcano (Southern Italy)

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Abstract

A compilation of B–Be–Li data on rocks that cover the entire eruptive history of Somma-Vesuvius is presented and interpreted in the light of evolution models for the Somma-Vesuvius rocks. Using major and trace element data, fractional crystalllization models are presented for different geochemical units. These data were used to constrain the source mineralogy of the Somma-Vesuvius rocks (ol-opx-cpx-gar-amp of 0.4-0.3-0.1-0.1-0.1), the amount of sediment added (5–10%) and the melt fraction from batch partial melting computations (0.05–0.1). From the B–Li data it is inferred that the main process responsible for the B isotopic signature is sediment recycling. However, the B–Li data show a major variation in Li abundances respect to B which is explained with Li dehydration before the fluid enriched the mantle wedge that produced the arc magmas. The Somma-Vesuvius B isotope composition is intermediate between that of the Campi Flegrei and the broad field of the Eolian Island arc. A low Be isotopes in the recent volcanic rocks can be explained as: (a) the top 1–22 m of the incoming sediment is accreted, (b) large amounts of sediment erosion, (c) a slow rate of subduction which have provoked a long magmatic history for the Vesuvius magma, (d) the sediment component takes several Myr longer than the subducting plate to reach the magma source region beneath Italy.

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Acknowledgments

This work started as a collaborative research program between R. Ayuso and B. De Vivo who are thanked for their support of this project and the use of the USGS laboratories. Chris Hawkesworth is thanked for many comments during the Marie Curie Fellowship at the University of Bristol. Jean Philippe Eissen, Massimo Cortini, Sonia Tonarini and Angelo Peccerilo helped with their constructive comments on the manuscript. This research was supported by the Marie Curie Fellowship and a Post-Doctorate grant at the University of Naples “Federico II” to A.P.

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  1. Dipartimento di Scienza della Terra, Università degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II”, Via Mezzocannone 8, 80138, Naples, Italy

    Angelo Paone

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Paone, A. Fractional crystallization models and B–Be–Li systematics at Mt Somma-Vesuvius volcano (Southern Italy). Int J Earth Sci (Geol Rundsch) 97, 635–650 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00531-008-0302-7

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