DEPT OF EARTH SCIENCES
| Researcher : Aitchison JC |
| Project Title: | Paleogene history of southern Tibet: Tethys closure and initiation of the India-Asia collision |
| Investigator(s): | Aitchison JC, Ali JR, Davis AM, Switzer AD, Xia X |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 09/2007 |
| Abstract: |
| To apply modern methods to detailed investigation of Paleogene sedimentary sections in southern Tibet; to elucidate India-Asia collision and climate change histories in this region; to provide a high-resolution biostratigraphic calibration allowing correlation between sections either side of the collision that formed under different conditions; to precisely determine the timing of continent-continent collision and provide a critical test of various collision hypotheses; to discriminate the signals of multiple events and determine their significance; to provide data from a hitherto unstudied equatorial region contributing to global climate change studies involving extreme greenhouse conditions |
| Project Title: | Stable Isotope Laboratory |
| Investigator(s): | Aitchison JC, Malpas JG, Sun M, Jiao JJJ, Zhao G, Zhou MF, Li SH, Liu Z, Lemke KH, Li YL, Switzer AD, Williams GA, Leung KMY, Gu JD, Macfarlane DJ, Vanhoutte PMGR |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | UGC One-off Special Equipment Grant Scheme |
| Start Date: | 12/2008 |
| Abstract: |
| To establish the first stable light isotope mass spectrometer research laboratory equipped for C, O, N, H, S and Fe isotope studies in Hong Kong SAR. The new facility will greatly enhance research, not just in the only Earth Science department in the SAR. It will enable researchers to carry out in-house cutting-edge studies and compete globally with first-tier research institutes. The development will build on existing experience in mass spectrometry within the department and broaden the application of associated techniques in a variety of fields across the university. |
| Project Title: | Geological Society of America Annual Meeting 2009 APPLYING CORDILLERAN TERRANE STYLE ANALYSIS TO UNDERSTANDING THE HIMALAYAN OROGEN |
| Investigator(s): | Aitchison JC |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | URC/CRCG - Conference Grants for Teaching Staff |
| Start Date: | 10/2009 |
| Completion Date: | 10/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| N/A |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Baxter A.T., Aitchison J.C., Ali J.R. and Zyabrev S.V., Lower Cretaceous radiolarians from the Spongtang massif, Ladakh, NW India: implications for Neo-Tethyan evolution, Journal of the Geological Society. Geological Society, London, 2010, 167: 511-517. |
| Lemke K.H. and Aitchison J.C., Metal-ion solvation and abundance in atmospheric media before strong earthquakes, AGU Fall Meeting 2009, abstract ID NH31C-1130. 2009. |
| Wong F.K.Y., Bugler-Lacap D.C., Lau C.Y., Aitchison J.C. and Pointing S.B., Hypolithic colonization of quartz pavement in the high altitude tundra of central Tibet, Microbial Ecology. 2010. |
| Wong K.Y., Lau C.Y., Bugler-Lacap D.C., Aitchison J.C., Cowan D.A. and Pointing S.B., Endolithic microbial colonization of limestone in a high-altitude arid environment, Microbial Ecology. Springer Science, 2009, 59: 689-699. |
| Researcher : Ali JR |
| Project Title: | Paleomagnetic study of paleogene rocks, Kazakhstan, central Asia |
| Investigator(s): | Ali JR |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding for New Staff |
| Start Date: | 02/2003 |
| Abstract: |
| To obtain a new apparent paleomagnetic pole from Upper Paleocene-Middle Eocene (60-50 Ma) shallow marine rock outcrops in Karakhstan to constrain the Late Cretaceous-mid Cenozoic position of the east and central Eurasian continental plate and hence establish its motion history for the peirod 80-40 Ma; to serve as a pilot investigation with the future aim of extracting from central Asia a middle Paleogene sea-level history from deposits that formed in the old Turgay Seaway (Arctic Ocean arm that 55 million years ago extended south to Iran) as part of ongoing testing of the Eustatic Sea-Level Concept. |
| Project Title: | Paleomagnetic investigation of Cretaceous igneous rocks from Central Tibet and tectonic modelling of stable Eurasia and active South, SE and East Asia over the last 146 million years. |
| Investigator(s): | Ali JR, Aitchison JC |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 01/2008 |
| Abstract: |
| Establish the latitudinal position of "stable" Tibet in the Cretaceous by carrying out paleomagnetic studies of igneous rocks from the northern Lhasa and southern Qiangtang blocks (the two sutured sometime in the Late Jurassic/very earliest Cretaceous). Principal targets are flows, pyroclastics and upper-level intrusive rocks associated with a number of volcanic formations. To avoid the “shallowed inclination problem", we will concentrate sampling on non-sedimentary units. However we may collect some sedimentary rocks to make use of their potentially valuable declination records to constrain vertical-axis rotations. Incorporate our sampled sequences into existing geological frameworks that have been developed for this part of Tibet, and possibly make amendments. Obtain new radiometric age-dates (principally Ar-Ar) from the studied rocks. This will provide an important time-control for the tectonic modelling. Also the data can be fed back into the stratigraphic framework that has been established for central Tibet. Outcome: An updated apparent polar wander path for stable Eurasia in the Cretaceous; revised plate tectonic model for East through South Asia in the Cretaceous and Cenozoic. Significance: Since the HKU Tibet Research Group was established in 1997, we have published numerous works in high-profile journals and learned-society monographs that have added much to the general understanding of this geologically complex and interesting region. Using rocks from Tibet, the proposed programme intends to advance an aspect of that work, this time related to the positioning of stable Eurasia in the Cretaceous, and to develop a revised tectonic model for the broader region spanning the last 146 million years. As a consequence, it is anticipated that we can add new information that will be of value to the wider community of geoscientists working on problems and phenomena in South, Southeast and East Asia. We will therefore report our findings in some of the higher-profile journals. |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Ali J.R., Comment on “Illawarra Reversal: the fingerprint of a superplume that triggered Pangean breakup and the end-Guadalupian (Permian) mass extinction” by Yukio Isozaki, Gondwana Research. 2010, 17: 715–717. |
| Ali J.R. and Huber M., Mammalian biodiversity on Madagascar controlled by ocean currents, Nature. 2010, 463: 653–656. |
| Baxter A.T., Aitchison J.C., Ali J.R. and Zyabrev S.V., Lower Cretaceous radiolarians from the Spongtang massif, Ladakh, NW India: implications for Neo-Tethyan evolution, Journal of the Geological Society. Geological Society, London, 2010, 167: 511-517. |
| Queano K.L., Ali J.R., Pubellier M., Yumul G.P. and Dimilanta C.B., Reconstructing the Mesozoic-early Cenozoic evolution of northern Philippines: clues from paleomagnetic studies on the ophiolitic basement of the Central Cordillera, Geophysical Journal International . 2009, 178: 1317–1326. |
| Wignall P.B., Vedrine S., Bond D.P.G..., Wang W., Lai X.L., Ali J.R. and Jiang H.S., Facies analysis and sea-level change at the Guadalupian-Lopingian global stratotype (Laibin, South China), and its bearing on the end-Guadalupian mass extinction., Journal of the Geological Society of London. 2009, 166: 655–666. |
| Researcher : Aydin A |
| Project Title: | Quantification and mapping of liquefaction potential of loaog city, the Philippines |
| Investigator(s): | Aydin A |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Small Project Funding |
| Start Date: | 11/2003 |
| Abstract: |
| To develop more robust and comprehensive assessment methodologies in determining and delineating liquefaction potential. |
| Project Title: | Mechanisms of landslides along clayey veins in saprolitic profiles |
| Investigator(s): | Aydin A, Aydin NS |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 12/2003 |
| Abstract: |
| To integrate field, geochemical, clay mineralogical and physical characterization methods with quantitative microstructural analyses of natural clayey veins and experimentally deformed remolded and artificial mixtures of soils to better understand and predict these landslides. |
| Project Title: | Quantification and mapping of liquefaction potential of loaog city, the Philippines: phase II |
| Investigator(s): | Aydin A |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Dr. Stephen S.F. Hui Trust Fund |
| Start Date: | 07/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| Second phase of a previously funded project aimed at "quantification and mapping of liquefaction potential of the Loaog City of the Philippines. This phase is aimed at a) refining the findings of the semiqualitative and empirical evaluation of earthquake loading by site-specific measurements of strong ground, motion spectra, b) improvimg the prediction of liquefaction resistance and engineering-stratigraphical model of the soil deposits, c) checking the predicted values of in situ density, d) extending the study area to cover the entire city, and finally e) comparing rerliability of the latest empirical and direct methods. |
| Project Title: | DURABILITY OF LIMESTONE AS ARMOURSTONE |
| Investigator(s): | Aydin A, Aydin NS |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Small Project Funding |
| Start Date: | 12/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| While certain rock types such as most igneous rocks in fresh states are proven to be best performers when exposed to environmental and loading conditions as constituent materials of hydraulic structures, absence of such rocks necessitate consideration of marginal rock types for such projects. This study is designed to assess the suitability of impure limestone through characterization of its material properties and durability in-service. Limestone is one of the most common types of rocks found worldwide, especially along the coastlines. The ever-increasing demand for good quality (pure and massive) limestone as dimension and face stone in building industry leave only the poor quality limestone to be economical alternatives in armourstone production. However there are potential problems associated with the durability of such rocks. The analysis of historical performance of such rocks along the coastlines together with the characterization of source rocks should provide a significant input to the current understanding of their durability and degradation rates as armourstone. Material characterization including assessment of durability and degradation rates is crucial in geotechnical design, selection of appropriate quarrying (production), development of effective on-site sorting, handling, transport, placement and maintenance procedures, and finally realistic prediction of service-life of hydraulic structures built of rock. Thus this initial study will concentrate on material characterization of marginal (impure, porous, fractured and/or thinly bedded) limestone to determine what controls their past and future performance as armourstone. |
| Project Title: | Development of a scheme for microstructural characterization of weathered rocks |
| Investigator(s): | Aydin A, Aydin NS |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 08/2006 |
| Abstract: |
| The fundamental objective of this project is to develop the first 'microstructural characterization scheme' (MCS) for weathered rocks. The outcomes will be disseminated through a series of ISI journal articles. |
| Researcher : Aydin NS |
| Project Title: | Comparative study on speciation of potentially toxic organic and inorganic elements in urban environments of Hong Kong and Guangzhou |
| Investigator(s): | Aydin NS, Malpas JG |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Dr. Stephen S.F. Hui Trust Fund |
| Start Date: | 04/2003 |
| Abstract: |
| To establish a comparable and comprehensive regional database fully characterizing organc and inorganic pollutants in the urban enrironments of Hong Kong and Guangzhou. |
| Project Title: | Fate of heavy metals released into fluvial system: Assessment of health and environmental effects of E-waste recycling/disposal in Guiyu, SE China |
| Investigator(s): | Aydin NS, Malpas JG, Aydin A |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Dr. Stephen S.F. Hui Trust Fund |
| Start Date: | 01/2004 |
| Abstract: |
| To assess the fate of heavy metals in fluvial system by examining an e-waste recycling/disposal processing site in Guiyu SE, China. Special emphasis will be given to the role of sediment-water partitioning and transport and depositional processes affecting distribution, dispersion and bioavailability of heavy metals in the aqueous environment. |
| Project Title: | Trace elements in Chinese coal: (Phase-I) domestic coal combustion and their health impact |
| Investigator(s): | Aydin NS |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Dr. Stephen S.F. Hui Trust Fund |
| Start Date: | 05/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| Aims to document elemental compostion and concentrations of tozic and potentially toxic elements including, As, Se, F. Pb, Cu, Ni and Cr in chinese coal used for domestic purposes; discuss their occurrences in coal; and document adverse human health effects of domestic coal burning practice in China. |
| Project Title: | Atmospheric deposition of mercury in Hong Kong |
| Investigator(s): | Aydin NS, Gu JD |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Environment and Conservation Fund |
| Start Date: | 02/2006 |
| Abstract: |
| This project is designed to simulate atmospheric deposition of total Hg (THg) in the forms of rainwater (dissolved Hg) and atmospheric particulate (particulate Hg) under natural conditions. The primary object of this project is to quantify atmospheric deposition of Hg in various parts of Hong Kong. Based on the collected information, the study will give insight to: 1) rate of atmospheric Hg loading in the environment of Hong Kong, 2) spatial and seasonal variation(s) in atmospheric Hg deposition, 3) possible influences of cross-boundary transport of Hg, and 4) evaluate potential long-term ecological and human health impacts of atmospheric Hg in Hong Kong. |
| Researcher : Baxter AT |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Baxter A.T., Aitchison J.C., Ali J.R. and Zyabrev S.V., Lower Cretaceous radiolarians from the Spongtang massif, Ladakh, NW India: implications for Neo-Tethyan evolution, Journal of the Geological Society. Geological Society, London, 2010, 167: 511-517. |
| Researcher : Cai K |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Cai K., Sun M., Yuan C., Zhao G., Xiao W., Long X. and Wu F., Zircon U-Pb and Hf isotopic study of granitoids from the Chinese Altai: implications for continuous magmatic activity, crust nature and tectonic scenario in the early to middle Paleozoic, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 289. |
| Long X., Yuan C., Sun M., Xiao W., Zhao G., Wang Y.J., Cai K., Xia X. and Xie L.W., Detrital zircon ages and Hf isotopes of the early Paleozoic flysch sequence in the Chinese Altai, NW China: New constrains on depositional age, provenance and tectonic evolution, Tectonophysics. 2010, 480: 213-231. |
| Yin J.Y., Yuan C., Sun M., Long X., Zhao G., Wong K.P., Geng H.Y. and Cai K., Late Carboniferous high-Mg dioritic dikes in Western Junggar, NW China: Geochemical features, petrogenesis and tectonic implications, Gondwana Research. 2010, 17: 145-152. |
| Yuan C., Sun M., Xiao W., Long X., Zhao G. and Cai K., Late Paleozoic magmatism in the Balikun area, eastern Tianshan: caused by mantle plume, ridge subduction or slab break off?, 3th Symposium on Structural Geology and Geodynamics. Guangzhou, Abstracts. 2010, p. 294. |
| Researcher : Chan LS |
| Project Title: | Joint HK-France-Vietnam production of a neotectonic map of South China-Southeast Asia region |
| Investigator(s): | Chan LS |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | The University of Hong Kong Foundation Seed Grant |
| Start Date: | 04/2002 |
| Abstract: |
| To study joint HK-France-Vietnam production of a neotectonic map of South China-Southeast Asia region. |
| Project Title: | Late postglacial sedimentation on the inner continental shelf of the South China Sea off Hong Kong and applications |
| Investigator(s): | Chan LS, Ridley Thomas WN, Switzer AD, Yim WWS |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 07/2008 |
| Abstract: |
| 1) An improved reconstruction of late postglacial sedimentation. 2) Better understanding of the factors controlling late postglacial sedimentation. 3) Improvement in the interpretation of high-resolution low-voltage boomer seismic records. 4) Development of new methods for the study continuously sampled boreholes. 5) Better understanding on recent crustal stability. 6) Applications of the findings to assist future coastal development. |
| Project Title: | Changes in the Gravity Field of the Longmenshan Area (Sichuan, China) caused by the M=8 Sichuan Earthquake |
| Investigator(s): | Chan LS |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Small Project Funding |
| Start Date: | 10/2008 |
| Abstract: |
| The Sichuan Earthquake on May 12, 2008 is arguably the biggest earthquake in China ever recorded by instrument. The epicentre of the earthquake was located in the Longmenshan (LMS) Mountains, which are a fold-and-thrust belt marking the tectonic boundary between South China Block and the Tibetan Plateau. The mountain belt forms a topographic feature with elevation rising from about 500 m in Sichuan Basin to over 5000 m within a distance of less than 50 km. There are several major resolved mysteries associated with the LMS Mountains. Firstly, high-resolution GPS data have revealed a very slow rate of horizontal convergence between Tibet and South China. Even the Sichuan Earthquake was characterised by primarily vertical movements along the fault. Secondly, convergent boundaries are typically characterised by the presence of a foreland basin in front of the mountain range. The absence of a sizable foreland basin in Longmenshan could not account for the topographic expression of the mountains. Various hypotheses have been proposed to explain the phenomenon. Clark and Royden (2000) proposed a mid-crustal flow model, causing the Tibetan Plateau to uplift along its eastern margin. The PI and his collaborators in Paris and Chengdu have completed a gravity traverse from western part of Sichuan Basin across the Longmenshan Mountains to Danba in the Tibet Plateau just before the earthquake. Gravity anomaly data were obtained at 2-3 km intervals along a 200 km traverse, extending from Longchuan City to Danba. Modelling of the data reveals an abrupt change in the crustal thickness from 35 km to 60 km at beneath the Longmenshan Mountains. The preliminary work has been summarised and submitted to Nature (Robert et al, in review). The gravity traverse cuts across the Beichuan Fault which was responsible for the earthquake. Two neighbouring faults – Wenchuan Fault and Pengguan Fault, also showed evidence for minor movements. In this project, the PI plans to undertake a gravity survey along the same traverse in order to determine the changes in the gravitational field caused by the ground movement during the earthquake. The information can be used to validate the changes in the gravity values and yield crucial data on the regional ground displacement caused by the earthquake. Subsequent to the earthquake, the PI undertook field measurements at several locations along the fault. Ground displacement of over 10 m has been observed. Since absolute gravity varies at a rate of 0.31 mgal (1 mgal = 1 cm s-2) per meter, the ground movement caused by the earthquake is estimated to produce changes in the absolute gravity values by 3 mgals. This magnitude of changes in the gravity values could be readily measured, since the gravity meter used in the survey has a resolution of 0.01 mgal. The absolute gravity at a place, after corrections for tidal and instrumental effects are made, is very stable, and could only be modified by vertical ground displacement. By comparing the gravity values of a station obtained before and after the earthquake, we can actually determine the amount of ground displacement at individual stations caused by the earthquake. In this proposed project the PI and his collaborator, Prof J Zhu of Chengdu University of Technology, will repeat the gravity survey along the same traverse from Longchuan in Sichuan basin to Danba in western Sichuan. Gravity values will be measured at the same locations as in the first traverse. Instrumental calibrations and corrections for tidal and elevation effects will be done in the same manner as for the first gravity traverse. In summary, the specific objective of this project is to measure the gravity values along the traverse from Longchuan to Danba that trespasses the several faults in the Longmenshan fault zone. The key issue is to compare the gravity values before and after the earthquake at the measurement stations. The key problems addressed are 1. if the changes in the gravity values are consistent with the estimated ground motion from field observations and seismic studies; and 2. how the crustal movement are distributed among the different faults in the Longmenshan Fault Zone. References: Clark, M.K. and Royden, L.H. 2000. Topographic ooze: building the eastern margin of Tibet by lower crustal flow. Geology 28(8): 703-306. Robert,A. , Zhu, J., Vergne, J., de Sigoyer, J., Chan, L.S., Pubellier, M. and others, Major lithospheric structures in the area of the 2008 Sichuan earthquake from geophysical and geological data, submitted to Nature, in review. |
| Project Title: | Mapping of vertical crustal displacement associated with the M=8 Sichuan Earthquake based on gravity survey |
| Investigator(s): | Chan LS, Pubellier MF |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 09/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| 1) Geophysical studies of Longmenshan Range region. Specifically, this project will measure the gravity anomalies along a section traversing the major faults of the Sichuan Earthquake in the Longmenshan Region. 2) Comparison of gravity anomaly values of the Longmenshan region before and after the Sichuan earthquake. The difference in the gravity values analyzed and modelled to determine vertical crustal displacement on the major faults produced in the Sichuan Earthquake. 3) Field determination of fault displacement. Microstructures of the fault zones will be studied to determine the sense of motion of the faults. Samples from raised terraces or fault scarp will be collected to determine the rate of fault displacements. |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Liu Q., Zeng Q., Yang T., Qiu N. and Chan L.S., Magnetic Properties of Street Dust from Chibi City, Hubei Province, China: Its Implications for Urban Environment, Journal of Earth Science. 2009, 20: 848-857. |
| Robert A., Zhu J., Vergne J., Cattin R., Chan L.S., Wittlinger G., Herquel G., de Sigoyer J., Pubellier M. and Zhu L.D., Crustal structures in the area of the 2008 Sichuan earthquake from seismologic and gravimetric data , Tectonophysics. 2009. |
| Yang T., Liu Q., Li H., Zeng Q. and Chan L.S., Anthropogenic magnetic particles and heavy metals in the road dust: Magnetic identification and its implications, Atmospheric Environment. 2009. |
| Researcher : Chen K |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Chen K., Tian S.Y. and Jiao J.J.J., Macrobenthic Community in Tolo Harbour, Hong Kong and its Relations with Heavy Metals, ESTUARIES AND COASTS. 2010, 33(3): 600-608. |
| Chen K. and Jiao J.J.J., Spatio-temporal trends of heavy metals and source apportionment in Tolo Harbour, Hong Kong , ENVIRONMENTAL EARTH SCIENCES. 2010, 60(7): 1439-1445. |
| Researcher : Chen N |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Chen N., Gong S., Sun M., Li X., Xia X., Wang Q., Wu F. and Xu P., Precambrian evolution of the Quanji Block, northeastern margin of Tibet: Insights from zircon U–Pb and Lu–Hf isotope compositions, Journal of Asian Earth Sciences. 2009, 35: 367-376. |
| Researcher : Ding G |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Jiao J.J.J. and Ding G., Change of groundwater system in a highly-urbanized coastal area in hong kong over the last century, World City Water Forum 2009 - Technical Conference "Ground Water and Management . 2009. |
| Researcher : Gao J |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Qi L., Zhou M.F., Gao J. and Zhao Z., An improved Carius tube technique for determination of low concentrations of Re and Os in pyrites. , J. Anal. At. Spectrom., . 2010, 25,: 585–589. |
| Sun W., Zhou M.F., Gao J., Yang S., Zhao X. and Zhao J., Detrital zircon U-Pb geochronological and Lu-Hf isotopic constraints on the Precambrian magmatic and crustal evolution of the western Yangtze Block, SW China, Precambrian Research. 2009, 172(1-2): 99-126. |
| Zhao X., Zhou M.F., Li J., Sun M., Gao J., Sun W. and Yang J.H., Late Paleoproterozoic to early Mesoproterozoic Dongchuan Group in Yunnan, SW China: Implications for tectonic evolution of the Yangtze Block: Precambrian Research, Precambrian Research. 2010, 182: 57-69. |
| Researcher : Gao J |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Qi L., Zhou M.F., Gao J. and Zhao Z., An improved Carius tube technique for determination of low concentrations of Re and Os in pyrites. , J. Anal. At. Spectrom., . 2010, 25,: 585–589. |
| Sun W., Zhou M.F., Gao J., Yang S., Zhao X. and Zhao J., Detrital zircon U-Pb geochronological and Lu-Hf isotopic constraints on the Precambrian magmatic and crustal evolution of the western Yangtze Block, SW China, Precambrian Research. 2009, 172(1-2): 99-126. |
| Zhao X., Zhou M.F., Li J., Sun M., Gao J., Sun W. and Yang J.H., Late Paleoproterozoic to early Mesoproterozoic Dongchuan Group in Yunnan, SW China: Implications for tectonic evolution of the Yangtze Block: Precambrian Research, Precambrian Research. 2010, 182: 57-69. |
| Researcher : Geng H |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Geng H., Sun M., Yuan C., Xiao W., Xian W.S., Zhao G. and Wong P.W., Geochemical, Sr-Nd and U-Pb-Hf isotopic studies of Late Carboniferous magmatism in the West Junggar, Xinjiang: implications for ridge subduction, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 297. |
| Researcher : Goodkin Emami NF |
| Project Title: | Records of industrial development and environmental change from Porites corals in eastern Hong Kong |
| Investigator(s): | Goodkin Emami NF, Switzer AD |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 04/2009 |
| Completion Date: | 10/2010 |
| Abstract: |
| Purpose In this pilot project a drill core from a recently discovered large coral head found in eastern Hong Kong waters will be used to investigate seasonal records of freshwater/saltwater mixing, pollution and regional industrial development over the last 50-100 years. The core will be investigated to look at changes in water quality proxies and metal concentrations using isotopic and trace element-based geochemical techniques. Key issues The research will be directly applicable to ongoing and future coastal development projects including commercial fishing, the management of marine parks, monitoring of sediment patterns in eastern Hong Kong waters. Problems to be addressed Despite Hong Kong’s tropical latitude (22N), there is no structural coral reef formation apparent in HK waters. Hong Kong’s hard coral communities are composed of corals attached directly to the rocky shoreline or part-buried in sand. With few exceptions, Hong Kong’s coral fauna is dominated by submassive and encrusting forms of the species that occur here. Until recently, the sea floor of Hong Kong was thought to be devoid of centuries old Porites sp. coral heads (Scott, 1991). Where such large coral heads occur, they have a variety of applied uses and are commonly used to investigate seasonal climate variation, investigation of changing sedimentation patterns and historical changes in regional land use and development. Trace elements and particulate material incorporated into coral skeletons have been used to map pollution and sediment from coastal development, mining operations and river discharges (eg. Fallon et al. 2002). In the same way as tree rings, annual and sub-annual cycles of growth in massive corals capture information about environmental influences on the coral at the time the skeleton is laid down. The rate of linear extension, density and isotopic composition of skeletal material can reflect temperature and salinity in very predictable ways (eg. Smith et al., 1979), providing a much needed marine archive. Geochemical analysis of coral skeletons is thus a powerful tool for investigating fluctuations and impacts in marine environments and this project will provide the first opportunity to conduct this type of study in Hong Kong. |
| Project Title: | Examination of Changes in Shallow Water Ventilation in the North Atlantic during the End of the Little Ice Age |
| Investigator(s): | Goodkin Emami NF |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Dr. Stephen S.F. Hui Trust Fund |
| Start Date: | 06/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| Abrupt climate change can happen without warning and within a decade, hemispheric temperatures and precipitation patterns can change significantly. This phenomenon is believed to be strongly influenced by changes in ocean circulation. The Little Ice Age (LIA) is the most recent (~1400-1850 AD) example of abrupt changes in climate, and therefore is a good time period to examine high resolution paleo-oceanography proxies to better understand changes in ocean circulation. The waters of Bermuda (64°W, 32°N) in the Sargasso Sea are influenced by the sub-tropical gyre and recirculation of Gulf Stream water within the gyre (eg. Schmitz and McCartney, 1993), and are an ideal location to study the important ocean circulation processes of the North Atlantic. The Sargasso Sea, the only sea in the world not bounded by land, is the site of intermediate mode water formation (found at depths of roughly 1000-1500 meters). The strength of the gyre as well as the vertical mixing patterns around Bermuda is influenced by large scale atmospheric circulation including the strength of the Westerly winds. The North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), measured as a bi-modal pressure anomaly between Iceland and the Acores, among other things influences wind strength across the North Atlantic and therefore, can have significant impacts on mode water ventilation (eg. Kushnir, 1994). In this study, two key questions will be addressed: 1) Did the rate of Sargasso Sea ventilation change during the Little Ice Age? 2) Is there a connection between changing decadal patterns of the North Atlantic Oscillation and sub-tropical mode water ventilation? In order to address these questions, we will measure radiocarbon (14C) at biennial resolution from a brain coral (Diploria labyrinthiformis) collected along the south shore of Bermuda. This colony lived from the mid-1700s to 2000, capturing both recent and historical periods of interest including the end of the LIA. The concentration of 14C in the CaCO3 skeletons of corals is representative of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) in the surface ocean (Druffel and Linick (1978), Nozaki et al. (1978)). 14C composition of DIC is influenced by both the 14C concentration of the atmosphere and of deeper water mixing with surface waters. As the 14C of the atmosphere and its’ influence on the surface ocean are well understood, the vertical mixing rate of surface waters can be modeled from the 14C concentration of corals of a known age. The LIA is believed to be strongly influenced by the Maunder (1645-1715) and Dalton (1790-1830) Minimums, defined by a significant decline in sunspots (Waldmeier (1976)). Accordingly during these periods the atmosphere experienced a sharp increase in 14C production and Northern Hemisphere temperatures cooled. Druffel (1982) examined radiocarbon and oxygen isotopes levels in a coral from the Florida straits and concluded that coherent with the Maunder Minimum Gulf Stream waters experienced an increase in radiocarbon levels and a decrease in temperature of ~1°C. The increased radiocarbon levels could either result from the unknown increase of 14C production in the atmosphere or from a decline in vertical mixing of surface waters. The Sargasso Sea supplies the vast majority of Gulf Stream waters via the sub-tropical gyre (Druffel and Seuss, 1982) and a decrease in sea water temperature at the base of the Gulf Stream could imply colder sea water temperatures within the Sargasso Sea during this time. Goodkin et al (2008a) supports cooler temperatures in the Sargasso Sea at the end of the LIA (1800-1850). It is likely that, given the cooler temperatures in the Sargasso Sea at this time, Druffel’s (1982) hypothesis that increased vertical mixing occurred at this location during the end of the Little Ice Age is accurate. However, the hypothesis remains untested. Druffel (1997) did evaluate the annual radiocarbon concentration of a coral from the Sargasso Sea (collected off of Bermuda’s North Shore) from 1880-1960. This coral record demonstrated decadal scale behavioral changes in ventilation rates, and drew connections between winter wind stress at Bermuda (ie. the NAO) and surface mixing, though was not long enough to capture the LIA. Recently, Goodkin et al. (2008b) reported a correlation between decadal scale NAO variability and hemispheric temperature, as examined from a coral collected off of Bermuda’s South Shore. This study demonstrates that low frequency behavior of the NAO reconstructed in both the ocean and the atmosphere increased dramatically from the end of the Little Ice Age when atmospheric temperatures were cold to modern day when atmospheric temperatures are warm. Low frequency NAO behavior is believed to be connected to complex dynamical ocean-atmosphere interactions including meridional overturning circulation or deep water formation (Krahmann et al. 2001). The findings of these three studies in the Florida straits and Bermuda leave open the questions of what was occurring in the Sargasso Sea during the Little Ice Age and what were the connections at that time to the NAO, which had relatively dampened decadal behavior and relatively unchanged inter-annual behavior. We hope that by extending the 14C record using a longer-lived coral we will be able to evaluate the hypothesis generated by these previous studies. References Druffel, Science, 1982 Druffel, Science, 1997 Druffel and Linick, Geophys. Res. Lett., 1978 Druffel and Seuess, J. Geophys. Res., 1982 Nozaki et al., Geophys. Res. Lett., 1978 Goodkin et al., Nature Geoscience, 2008b Goodkin et al., Paleoceanography, 2005 Goodkin et al., Paleoceaonography, 2008a Krahmann et al., J. Phys. Oceanography, 2001 Kushnir, J. Climate, 1994 Schmitz and McCartney, Rev. of Geophys., 1993 Waldmeier, Science, 1976 |
| Project Title: | A history of industrial oceanic hazards and recent climate change using coral geochemistry from the South China Sea |
| Investigator(s): | Goodkin Emami NF, Switzer AD |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 01/2010 |
| Abstract: |
| 1) Gather a collection of near shore coral cores from around two locations in the South China Sea, most likely Vietnam and Malaysia or the southern Philippines; 2) Examine geographical impacts of pollution through time via trace metal concentrations at biennial resolution, using standard cleaning techniques to assure no contamination from sediment or sampling techniques is affecting trace metal measurements; 3) Better understand how Monsoon patterns are changing as a function of increased air and sea temperatures. By measuring Sr/Ca, δ18O and Ba/Ca at sub-annual resolution, we can evaluate co-eval changes in temperature, salinity, and runoff to better understand coupled climate changes and land-sea interactions in this region. 4) Preserve coral samples for future analysis as new analytical techniques develop |
| Project Title: | 2010 Western Pacific Geophysics Meeting Two-centuries of Environmental Change in the South China Sea as Recorded by Trace Metals, Sr/Ca and del18O in Fossil Coral from Hong Kong |
| Investigator(s): | Goodkin Emami NF |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | URC/CRCG - Conference Grants for Teaching Staff |
| Start Date: | 06/2010 |
| Completion Date: | 06/2010 |
| Abstract: |
| N/A |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Goodkin Emami N.F., Climate Reconstructions from Temperate Corals: Complications and Successes, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. 2009. |
| Goodkin Emami N.F., Angeline N., Wang B.S., You C.F., Hughen K.A. and Switzer A.D., High Sea Water Metal Concentrations Recorded in Hong Kong Corals During the end of World War Two,, 6th International Conference on Marine Pollution and Ecotoxicology . 2010. |
| Goodkin Emami N.F., Angeline N..., Wang B.S., You C.F., Mii H.S., Hughen K.A. and Switzer A.D., Two-centuries of Environmental Change in the South China Sea as Recorded by Trace Metals, Sr/Ca, and del18O in Fossil Coral from Hong Kong, Western Pacific Geophysics Meeting of the American Geophysical Union. 2010. |
| Researcher : Guo H |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Guo H., Jiao J.J.J. and Li H.L., Groundwater response to tidal fluctuation in a two-zone aquifer , JOURNAL OF HYDROLOGY . 2010, 381(3-4): 364-371. |
| Guo H. and Jiao J.J.J., Theoretical study of the impact of tide-induced airflow on hydraulic head in air-confined coastal aquifers, HYDROLOGICAL SCIENCES JOURNAL. 2010, 55(3): 435-445. |
| Jiao J.J.J. and Guo H., Airflow induced by pumping tests in unconfined aquifer with a low-permeability cap, Water Resources Research. 2009, 45: W10445, doi:10.1029/2009WR007760. |
| Jiao J.J.J. and Guo H., Airflow induced by pumping tests, ModelCare2009, The 7th International Conference on Calibration and Reliability in Groundwater Modeling. 2009. |
| Jiao J.J.J. and Guo H., Keynote Speech, Airflow induced by pumping tests, ModelCare2009, The 7th International Conference on Calibration and Reliability in Groundwater Modeling, Wuhan, China. 2009. |
| Researcher : Guo J |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Li X., Guo J. and Zhao G., Metamorphism and geochronology of the Khondalite Series in the Jining area, North China Craton, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 449. |
| Tam P.Y., Zhao G., Liu F.L., Zhou X. and Guo J., SHRIMP U-Pb zircon ages of high-pressure mafic and pelitic granulites and associated rocks from the Jingshan Group in the Jiaodong area, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 270. |
| Zhao G., Wilde S.A., Guo J., Cawood P.A., Sun M. and Li X., Single zircon grains record two continental collisional events in the North China craton, Precambrian Research. 2010, 177: 266-276. |
| Researcher : He Y |
| List of Research Outputs |
| He Y., Zhao G., Sun M. and Han Y.G., Petrogenesis and tectonic setting of volcanic rocks in the Xiaoshan and Waifangshan areas along the southern margin of the North China Craton: constraints from bulk-rock geochemistry and Sr-Nd isotopic composition, Lithos. 2010, 114: 186-199. |
| Zhao G., He Y. and Sun M., The Xiong'er volcanic belt at the southern margin of the North China Craton: Petrographic and geochemical evidence for its outboard position in the Paleo-Mesoproterozoic Columbia Supercontinent, Gondwana Research. 2009, 16: 170-181. |
| Researcher : Jiang Y |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Jiang Y., Sun M., Zhao G. and Yuan C., Determination of 90 Ma high-temperature metamorphism in Chinese Altai, Xinjiang, China: Geological implications, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 447. |
| Researcher : Jiao JJJ |
| Project Title: | Submarine groundwater discharge in Tolo Harbour and its possible ecological influence |
| Investigator(s): | Jiao JJJ, Leung JKC, Gu JD |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 09/2006 |
| Abstract: |
| (1) Submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) is defined here as all direct discharge of groundwater across the ocean–land interface, including recirculated seawater due to tidal fluctuations and other forcings. The coastal areas are one of the most valuable and vulnerable of Earth's habitats. Because coastal areas are the ultimate discharge zones of groundwater, SGD into the coastal zone has received increased attention in the last few years. SGD is now believed to represent an important pathway for fluid and chemical transport between land and ocean, although it remains a poorly understood phenomenon (Kim and Hwang 2002). The influence of SGD on the environment and the ecology of coastal systems may be more important than previously thought because of the many nutrients and contaminants carried in groundwater. (2) SGD may be particularly important in the China Sea where the surface water input is progressively decreasing due to dam construction on major rivers and extensive river water consumption due to rapid economic growth. The Southeast China Sea has suffered severely from HAB, especially in recent years. Nutrient input directly from river runoff and sewage is recognized a key factor responsible for HAB, but input from SGD into the coastal systems of the China Sea and its impact on HAB have been largely ignored. An important aspect of nutrient input via SGD is the possible difference in N/P ratios supplied by this route compared to surface runoff. The N/P ratio may control the type of organisms that are successful in the coastal water. None of the previous studies in Hong Kong have investigated the role of temporal variations in groundwater quality in the occurrence of HAB. (3) The objective of this project is to investigate systematically and quantitatively the phenomenon of SGD and its environmental and ecological implications with a case study in Tolo Harbour. Specifically, we aim to study: 1) the quality and quantity of SGD and its temporal and spatial variations and 2) possible relationships between SGD and marine water quality and HAB. The project will be carried out by an interdisciplinary research team consisting of hydrogeologist, marine geochemist, ecologist, and radioisotope physicist. (4) Tolo Harbour is selected for this study for the following reasons: 1) it is a site of long-term monitoring of marine water quality, groundwater level and red tides; 2) it has a well-defined catchment of manageable size with relatively large groundwater discharge; 3) there is an abundance of existing geological and hydrogeological data for the area; 4) Various radiochemical and hydrological methods can be applied to estimate SGD in the single harbour and cross checked; 5) SGD is believed to have potential ecological implication such as formation of HAB; 6) We have carried some preliminary investigations and believe that it is an ideal site for our study. (5) The project will be divided into several subtasks: 1) Collection and compilation of existing geological, hydrogeological and chemical data; 2) Field hydrogeological studies accompanied by a one-year program of groundwater and seawater chemical monitoring. The main nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and silicon and micronutrients such as copper, zinc, chromium, iron, and manganese will be analysed and monitored; 3) Estimation of SGD by radium and radon isotope analysis, installation of seepage meters, and hydrological and hydrogeological methods including 3D density-dependent flow with solute transport modeling; SGD estimated from different approaches will be compared and cross-checked carefully since different approaches may estimate different components of SGD. 4) Statistical analysis of time series of seawater quality and groundwater level; 5) Examination of the environmental and ecological roles of SGD in coastal processes such as eutrophication and associated HAB. (6) This project will be the first of its kind in the Southeast China Sea and will provide valuable quantitative information for evaluation of SGD, allowing us to develop a deeper understanding of the interactions between coastal seawater and groundwater via SGD. It will also provide methodology and insight for predicting and evaluating SGD in coastal systems. The findings from this project, which will be published in international journals, will have not only theoretical interest but will be of practical benefit for sustainable use and development of coastal ecosystems in Hong Kong and elsewhere. |
| Project Title: | Origin and evolution of abnormally high ammonium groundwater in the Pearl River Delta and its environmental impact |
| Investigator(s): | Jiao JJJ |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 01/2008 |
| Abstract: |
| Spatial characterization of the fertile water by palaeo-hydrogeological and stratigraphical studies. Geochemical characterization of the fertile water by field sampling and laboratory analysis. Determination of the hydrogeology and hydrogeochemistry of the source formation and of the storage formation (aquifer) by field and laboratory studies. Differentiation of fertile water from other sources of nitrogen by isotope analyses. Quantification of the amount of soluble ammonium in mud by conducting ammonium extraction experiments. Estimation by numerical modeling of the extent and nature of surface water-groundwater interaction and nitrogen exchange, especially under anthropogenic disturbances. |
| Project Title: | Subsurface airflow induced by pumping tests |
| Investigator(s): | Jiao JJJ |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 01/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| 1) Temporal change and spatial distributions of the air pressure caused by pumping; 2) Impact of airflow on water level response and aquifer parameter estimation; 3) Field investigation of airflow by conducting pumping test in a two-layer aquifer system; 4) Numerical simulation of water level and airflow observed in field pumping tests |
| Project Title: | THE FIRST Asia-Pacific Coastal Aquifer Management Meeting (APCAMM 2009) IMPACT OF LAND RECLAMATION ON COASTAL GROUNDWATER SYSTEMS |
| Investigator(s): | Jiao JJJ |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | URC/CRCG - Conference Grants for Teaching Staff |
| Start Date: | 12/2009 |
| Completion Date: | 12/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| N/A |
| Project Title: | Generation and Migration of High-Salinity Groundwater in the Pearl River Delta |
| Investigator(s): | Jiao JJJ, Cherry JA, Zong Y |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 01/2010 |
| Abstract: |
| 1) Determine the Quaternary geology to reconstruct paleogeographical developments and characterization of the multi-layered aquifer system; 2) Investigate the hydrogeology and isotope hydrology to constrain the age and provenance of the brackish and saline groundwater; 3) Measure vertical hydraulic and pore water chemical profiles at representative sites to reconstruct former environmental conditions and identify processes that controlled salinization |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Chen C.X., Kuang X. and Jiao J.J.J., Methods to Derive the Differential Equation of the Free Surface Boundary, Ground Water. 2010, 48(3): p329-332. |
| Chen K., Tian S.Y. and Jiao J.J.J., Macrobenthic Community in Tolo Harbour, Hong Kong and its Relations with Heavy Metals, ESTUARIES AND COASTS. 2010, 33(3): 600-608. |
| Chen K. and Jiao J.J.J., Spatio-temporal trends of heavy metals and source apportionment in Tolo Harbour, Hong Kong , ENVIRONMENTAL EARTH SCIENCES. 2010, 60(7): 1439-1445. |
| Guo H., Jiao J.J.J. and Li H.L., Groundwater response to tidal fluctuation in a two-zone aquifer , JOURNAL OF HYDROLOGY . 2010, 381(3-4): 364-371. |
| Guo H. and Jiao J.J.J., Theoretical study of the impact of tide-induced airflow on hydraulic head in air-confined coastal aquifers, HYDROLOGICAL SCIENCES JOURNAL. 2010, 55(3): 435-445. |
| Jiao J.J.J. and Guo H., Airflow induced by pumping tests in unconfined aquifer with a low-permeability cap, Water Resources Research. 2009, 45: W10445, doi:10.1029/2009WR007760. |
| Jiao J.J.J. and Guo H., Airflow induced by pumping tests, ModelCare2009, The 7th International Conference on Calibration and Reliability in Groundwater Modeling. 2009. |
| Jiao J.J.J. and Ding G., Change of groundwater system in a highly-urbanized coastal area in hong kong over the last century, World City Water Forum 2009 - Technical Conference "Ground Water and Management . 2009. |
| Jiao J.J.J., Characterization of hydraulic and transport properties of aquitards in the Pearl River Delta, Western Pacific Geophysics Meeting, Taipei, Taiwan. 2010. |
| Jiao J.J.J., Crescent Moon Spring: A Disappearing Natural Wonder in the Gobi Desert, China , Ground Water. 2009, 48 (1): 159 - 163. |
| Jiao J.J.J., Invited, Preliminary Study on Ammonium-rich groundwater in the Pearl River Delta, International Groundwater Forum, Jilin, China. 2009. |
| Jiao J.J.J. and Guo H., Keynote Speech, Airflow induced by pumping tests, ModelCare2009, The 7th International Conference on Calibration and Reliability in Groundwater Modeling, Wuhan, China. 2009. |
| Jiao J.J.J., Keynote Speech, Change of Groundwater System in A Highly-Urbanized Coastal Area in Hong Kong Over the Last Century, World City Water Forum in Incheon in Korea. 2009. |
| Researcher : King JA |
| Project Title: | Crustal melting - it’s impact and implications for the post collisional tectonics of Southern Tibet. |
| Investigator(s): | King JA, Aitchison JC |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Small Project Funding |
| Start Date: | 03/2008 |
| Completion Date: | 08/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| The proposed course of work will focus on a field study of (Calc-Alkaline) Adakite-like/Dacite suite dikes and North Himalayan Granites (NHGs) in the Indus-Yarlung suture zone of Southern Tibet. Recent collaborative work by the PI (see publications list below) found that both the Calc-Alkaline dikes and NHGs represent varying degrees of mantle melting, crustal assimilation of mantle melts and intrinsic crustal melting, identifiable and traceable to discrete crustal regions. Initiation and intrusion of such melts is thought to facilitate crustal weakening, leading to major tectonic instabilities in orogenic regions, the degree of tectonic re-equilibration perhaps directly linked to degree of crustal melting. However, this relationship is poorly understood. Relatively good exposure levels and the undeformed nature of these crustal melt rocks makes them ideal candidates for this multidisciplinary study to investigate the impact of crustal melting on the tectonic evolution of continent-continent collisional zones. This project will also provide an opportunity to build upon the findings outlined in the publications list. |
| Researcher : Kuang X |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Chen C.X., Kuang X. and Jiao J.J.J., Methods to Derive the Differential Equation of the Free Surface Boundary, Ground Water. 2010, 48(3): p329-332. |
| Researcher : Lee MH |
| Project Title: | Dynamics and Origins of Outer Solar System Configurations |
| Investigator(s): | Lee MH |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 08/2008 |
| Abstract: |
| 1) We will investigate a scenario in which the new satellites of Pluto, Nix and Hydra, were debris created by the impact that captured Charon into an eccentric orbit and in which Nix and Hydra were once captured into orbital resonances with Charon and pushed out to their current locations as Charon's orbit expanded due to tidal dissipation. The goal is to use Nix and Hydra to constrain the history of the Pluto system. 2) We will assess the viability of a scenario in which the tilts of the spin axes of Jupiter and Saturn were generated by the capture into a spin-orbit resonance due to the depletion of the planetesimal disk and/or the migration of the planets. 3) We will constrain the parameters of plausible circumjovian disk models that allow capture of the Galilean satellites into the set of orbital resonances that comprise the current Laplace relation. Understanding the origin of these resonances will constrain the longevity of the extensive volcanism on Io and the liquid ocean on Europa. 4) We will determine the conditions required to sustain magentohydrodynamic turbulence in circumjovian disk and the implications of such turbulence on disk structures and satellite formation and migration. |
| Project Title: | The Dynamics of Discs and Planets Formation Environment of the Galilean Moons |
| Investigator(s): | Lee MH |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | URC/CRCG - Conference Grants for Teaching Staff |
| Start Date: | 08/2009 |
| Completion Date: | 08/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| N/A |
| Project Title: | Dynamics and Origins of Extrasolar Planetary Systems |
| Investigator(s): | Lee MH |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 10/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| 1) We will construct both grid-based parameter exploration code and Markov chain Monte Carlo code that can self-consistently model the radial velocity of multiple planet systems. 2) We will perform a systematic analysis of the HD 82943 system in order to determine which of the qualitatively different fits that have been proposed (planets in 2:1 resonance, two planets in 1:1, or three planets) is correct. 3) We will determine the individual orbital inclinations of the resonant planets in the GJ 876 system. 4) We will investigate the capture into higher order resonances such as 3:1 and 5:1 by converging differential migration, which is relevant to the origins of the 55 Cancri and HD 202206 systems. The puzzle of why the probability of capturing 55 Cancri b and c like planets into the 3:1 mean-motion resonances from differential migration is higher for larger eccentricities will be investigated |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Castillo-Rogez J., Johnson T.V., Lee M.H., Turner N.J., Matson D.L. and Lunine J., 26Al Decay: Heat Production and a Revised Age for Iapetus, Icarus. Elsevier, 2009, 204: 658-662. |
| Lee M.H. and McNeil D.S., Constraints on Giant Planet Migration: Obliquities and Stability, CITA@25/Bond@60 Conference, Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada. 2010. |
| Lee M.H., Turner N.J. and Sano T., Formation Environment of the Galilean Moons, The Dynamics of Discs and Planets, Isaac Newton Institute for Mathematical Sciences, Cambridge, UK. 2009. |
| Lee M.H., Formation and Evolution of Satellite Systems, Winter Workshop on Planetary Astrophysics, Kavli Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics, Peking University, Beijing, China. 2009. |
| Lee M.H. and Thommes E.W., Planetary Migration and Eccentricity and Inclination Resonances in Extrasolar Planetary Systems, The Astrophysical Journal. IOP Publishing, 2009, 702: 1662-1672. |
| McNeil D.S. and Lee M.H., Constraints on Giant Planet Migration: Obliquities and Stability, Ishigaki International Conference on Evolving Theory for Planet Formation. 2010. |
| Researcher : Lemke KH |
| Project Title: | Biomolecule stability in hydrothermal fluids |
| Investigator(s): | Lemke KH |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 10/2008 |
| Abstract: |
| 1) To study the hydrothermal stability of selected nuclei acid components (i.e. ribose sugars, nucleosides and nucleotides) in aqueous media as a function of temperature and pressure; Note, the sparse literature data on high PT nucleobase and nucleoside stability are tainted by significant reactor wall effects as well as uncertainties in product identification. The goal here is to gain fundamental insight into speciation, thermochemical stability and uv-vis spectroscopic properties of various nucleic acid moieties as well as to compare measured uv-vis spectra with those obtained by time-dependent density functional theory and select polarizable continuum models. 2) To investigate which reactor and window materials yield the best spectra for high PT studies of the constituents of nucleic acid materials up the supercritical region of water. Titanium-based optical cells, which have been applied previously in high PT IR studies of amino acids have proven to be highly surface reactive, so I wish to experiment with more inert materials, such as for instance, Au, Ir and Pt. Au has a relatively low melting temperature (i.e. 1062degC), can be easily reworked and deformed upon heating and does not form surface oxide layers in aquoeus media. Quartz windows are uv-vis transparent and do not undergo dissolution below 300oC but have the inherent problem of sequestering/adsorbing solutes onto the window surface. Sapphire (windows are less reactive but not uv-vis transparent below around 240nm, hence window composition and mechanical strength are factors that must be taken into account during experimental planning period. |
| Project Title: | Detection of Biological Polymers in Natural Hot Springs |
| Investigator(s): | Lemke KH |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 06/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| The high temperature stability of aqueous proteins, DNA, RNA and cell membrane lipid-like oligomers directly impacts the upper temperature tolerance of life. The temperature tolerance of life is therefore premised on the strength of key biochemical bonds such as the amide bond in proteins and the glycosidic and phosphate ester in oligonucleotides. This study aims to determine and evaluate (1) the stability, natural distribution and abundance of key biological molecules in natural fumaroles, hot springs and comparable high temperature geological settings and (2) to investigate how parameters such as water fluid composition, temperature and pressure impact the basic stability of biomolecules and thus the upper temperature limit life. This study will provide a preliminary approach to a deeper understanding of life’s temperature tolerance. |
| Project Title: | 2009 AGU Fall Meeting Metal-ion solvation and abundance in atmospheric media before strong earthquakes |
| Investigator(s): | Lemke KH |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | URC/CRCG - Conference Grants for Teaching Staff |
| Start Date: | 12/2009 |
| Completion Date: | 12/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| N/A |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Lemke K.H., Sadjadi S. and Seward T.M., FT-ICR/MS and Quantum Chemical Study of the Aqueous Microsolvation of Cadmium Chloride Complexes, Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta, Volume 74, Issue 12, Supplement 1. 2010, 74. |
| Lemke K.H., Sadjadi S. and Seward T.M., FT-ICR/MS and Quantum Chemical Study of the Aqueous Microsolvation of Cadmium Chloride Complexes, Goldschmidt Meeting 2010, Knoxville, TN, Usa. 2010. |
| Lemke K.H. and Aitchison J.C., Metal-ion solvation and abundance in atmospheric media before strong earthquakes, AGU Fall Meeting 2009, abstract ID NH31C-1130. 2009. |
| Lemke K.H., Butt S.K. and Seward T.M., The Structure and Stability of Metal Water Clusters in High Temperature LowDensity Fluids, Geochimica Et Cosmochimica Acta. Elsevier, 2009, 73: A743. |
| Sadjadi S., Butt S.K. and Lemke K.H., Thermodynamic and structural stability of (CO2)(n) n=2-4: An ab initio and QTAIM Study, Geochimica Et Cosmochimica Acta. Elsevier, 2009, 73: A1140. |
| Researcher : Leung WH |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Yin C., Zhao G., Sun M., Xia X., Wei C.J. and Leung W.H., LA-ICP-MS U-Pb zircon ages of the Qianlishan Complex: constrains on the evolution of the Khondalite Belt in the Western Block of the North China Craton, Precambrian Research. 2009, 174: 78-94. |
| Researcher : Li B |
| Project Title: | Isochron Dating of Quaternary Sediments from the Edge of Mu Us Desert in Northern China |
| Investigator(s): | Li B, Li SH |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Small Project Funding |
| Start Date: | 10/2008 |
| Abstract: |
| This project has two objectives: (A) To provide geochronology control for the Pleistocene fluvial and lacustrine sediments from the Salawusu River Valley in the south edge of the Mu Us Desert by using the newly developed isochron dating method. (B) To study the age limits of the isochron dating method by dating the sand-loess-palaeosol sequences at the edge of the Mu Us Desert. A. The primary objective is to date the late Pleistocene fluvial and lacustrine sediments from the Salawusu River Valley by using the newly developed isochron dating method proposed by the PI (Li et al., 2008b), so that the palaeoenvironmental change in this area can be reconstructed. Previous geochronology of the sediments in this area was mainly based on radiocarbon dating (Li et al., 1984) and thermoluminescence (TL) dating (Sun et al., 1998) reported 10 years ago. However, since this area belongs to arid and semi-aird area, there are lack of uncontaminated organic materials. Hence, the radiocarbon dating is highly doubted in this area, and also the limit of the radiocarbon dating has preventing dating the sediments older than 50,000 years. In addition, the TL ages may be highly problematic because the TL signal is bleached slowly and incompletely by sunlight. Recently, it has been reported that the fluvial and lacustrine sediments in this area may experienced significant changes in their environmental dose rate as a result of possible uranium uptake from the underground water (Li et al., 2008a). Therefore, dating of these sediments using the routine luminescence dating method, i.e. dividing the equivalent dose by the dose rate, may result in significant error in their ages. It was shown that this method can overcome the problem from the changes in environmental dose rate. The new isochron dating method has been successfully applied to the Holocene fluvial and lacustrine sediments in the area (Li et al., 2008a). With this project, the sediments below the Holocene sediments will be dated with the new isochron dating techniques to provide direct chronological evidence on the environmental changes of this area. B. The second objective is to study the age limits of the isochron dating method by dating the sand-loess-palaeosol sequences at the edge of the Mu Us Desert. The newly developed isochron dating technique (Li et al., 2008b) has been shown to have many advantages over traditional OSL dating method. It can overcome the problem of anomalous fading in K-feldspars and overcome the problem of changes in environmental dose rate. Moreover, since the method relies on K-feldspar only, the high saturation dose level of K-feldspar provides a high potential to date for old sediments. For the routine dating using quartz OSL, the upper age limit in those areas having a dose rate of ~3-4 Gy/ka, e.g. the Mu Us Desert, is only ~70-100 k due to the saturation of quartz OSL signal. This prevented the application of luminescence technique in dating the late Pleistocene sediments in these areas. The edge of Mu Us deserts provide one of the limited sites in the world that loess and deserts coexisted in one section, and their age can be estimated by stratigraphically correlating to well-established time scale, e.g. Marine Oxygen Isotope record (Sun et al, 1999). This provides the opportunity to study the limits of the isochron dating method, and also to further evaluate the validity of this method. The dating limits are potentially applied to other part of loess and desert range in China. |
| Project Title: | UK Luminescence and ESR Meeting 2009 The relationship between thermal activation energy, infrared stimulated luminescence and anomalous fading of K-feldspars |
| Investigator(s): | Li B |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | URC/CRCG - Conference Grants for Teaching Staff |
| Start Date: | 08/2009 |
| Completion Date: | 08/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| N/A |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Li B., The relationship between thermal activation energy, infrared stimulated luminescence and anomalous fading of K-feldspars, Radiation Measurements. 2010, 45: 757-763. |
| Li S.H., Li B., Wintle A...G..., Zhao H. and Yin G... .M..., iIRSL Dating of K-feldspar and Its Application to Fajiagouwan, Salawusu Site in Central China (keynote speech), 1st Luminescence in Archaeology International Symposia, Greece . 2009. |
| Li S.H., Li B., Wintle A.G., Zhao H. and Yin G.M., iIRSL dating of k-feldspar and its application to fajiagouwan, salawusu site in central China , 1st Luminescence in Archaeology International Symposia, Greece . Greece, 2009. |
| Researcher : Li J |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Li J., Deng X., Zhou M.F., Liu Y., Zhao X. and Guo J., Laser ablation ICP-MS titanite U-Th-Pb dating of hydrothermal ore deposits: A case study of the Tonglushan Cu-Fe-Au skarn deposit, SE Hubei Province, China, Chemical Geology. 2010, 270(1-4): 56-67. |
| Zhao X., Zhou M.F., Li J., Sun M., Gao J., Sun W. and Yang J.H., Late Paleoproterozoic to early Mesoproterozoic Dongchuan Group in Yunnan, SW China: Implications for tectonic evolution of the Yangtze Block: Precambrian Research, Precambrian Research. 2010, 182: 57-69. |
| Researcher : Li L |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Li L., Sun M., Wang Y., Xing G.F., Lin S., Zhao G., Xia X., Wong P.M. and Zhang F.F., Zircon U-Pb and Hf isotopic study for the migmatised amphibolites in the Cathaysia Block: implications for the granulite facies metamorphism of Caledonian event in Southeast China, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 252. |
| Researcher : Li SH |
| Project Title: | Optical dating of Holocene deposits in sandy lands from Inter-Mongolia China |
| Investigator(s): | Li SH |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 02/2004 |
| Abstract: |
| To date late Quaternary desert deposits for providing direct chronological evidence on climate changes and human occupations; to identify the relative significance of climate changes ro human impacts on desert development during the Holocene in China; to date samples from archaeological sites and ancient desert deposit in order to obtain clues on the relationship between immigration, urban development and desert expansion. |
| Project Title: | OSL chronological studies of late quaternary sediments from Gurbantunggut Desert in Northwestern China |
| Investigator(s): | Li SH |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 12/2006 |
| Abstract: |
| (1) The primary objective is to date sediments from Gurbantunggut Desert to provide a chronological framework for the study of paleoenvironmental change in this remote and little-studied area. Alternations of relatively coarse sands, fine sand and sand with high clay content have been reported in Gurbantunggut Desert and it has been suggested that they span the last 150 thousand years. In the southern part of the desert, Holocene paleosols had developed on the top of sections; however, because there is a lack of uncontaminated organic material found within the aeolian deposits for use in a radiocarbon dating study, the chronological framework is poor. Within this project, these sandy deposits will be dated with optically stimulated luminescence dating techniques to provide direct chronological evidence; high-resolution sampling may produce centennial scale information on aeolian activity in this region over tens of thousands of years. (2) The second objective is to study the recent migration of dunes. Understanding recent dune migration is critically important to the success of desertification hazard-prevention projects and environmental conservation in an ecologically-fragile area. The use of a combined study using ground penetrating radar (GPR) and optical stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating will provide information of 4-dimensions (space and time) on recent dune movement in Gurbantunggut Desert. This will be the first time that both techniques have been applied in Chinese desert areas. Recent migration of dunes might be caused by recent cultivation and immigration to the region, activities which have happened only in the last few centuries. (3) The third objective is to reconstruct the paleoenvironment of the region, and identify the similarities and differences of paleoclimate changes in Gurbantunggut desert compared with other deserts in China. The current climate in Gurbantunggut is significantly different from other Chinese deserts. Annual precipitation is only about 100-200 mm, which is significantly lower than other stabilised or semi-stabilised deserts in eastern China. This project will provide a direct comparison with other deserts, e.g. Hulun Buir desert, which have previously been the subject of OSL dating studies. (4) This study will provide direct and detailed chronological evidence for sections from a late Quaternary sequence from an area that is sensitive to climatic change. Information on the direction, timing and sand volume will be provided for dunes that have moved recently. This will be useful in forming strategies and policies on environmental conservation and immigration in an ecologically-fragile part of China. |
| Project Title: | Optical dating study on the late Quaternary slip rates of Altyn Tagh Fault |
| Investigator(s): | Li SH |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 01/2008 |
| Abstract: |
| The primary objective is to determine the slip rates of Altyn Tagh fault by dating the sediments and measuring offsets in late Quaternary landforms. They are terraces and glacial/fluvial sediments directly associated with the Altyn Tagh fault. It is to provide a chronological framework for sediments in Aksay and Subei areas. The second objective is to study the relationship between the glacial/fluvial sediments and climatic changes. The third objective is to study tectonic implications of slip rates obtained and the evolution of uplifting Tibetan plateau. |
| Project Title: | Optical dating of late Quaternary river terraces in northern Tianshan, China |
| Investigator(s): | Li SH, Li B |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 01/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| 1) The primary objective is to determine the ages of the river terraces in Northern Tianshan Mountain by dating the fluvial sediments and the overlying loess. In this area, there is widely distributed loess, which contains silt sized quartz and feldspar grains. Such minerals are best suitable for optical dating. Previous study on the oldest terrace suggested that it formed as early as 800 ka ago, dated by palaeomagnetism. However, the chronological framework is very poor due to lack of organic materials for radiocarbon dating and age range limits of the dating method. Crosschecking and complementary by different dating methods are necessary to prove the reliability of the dating results. With this project, these terraces will be dated with OSL dating techniques to provide direct chronological evidence on the formation of river terrace in the late Quaternary period. 2) The second objective is to study the relationship between the terrace formation and the tectonic uplift and climate changes in the region. The evolution of the rivers in this region is sensitive to both tectonics and climate changes. This study on the loess deposited on the terraces will provide chronological evidence for late Quaternary climatic changes in the region. It can also provide information which is the primary control for the aggradation and incision of rivers between tectonism and climate changes. If the tectonism is the main factor, the ages of the terraces will provide direct information on the tectonics activity of the region during late Quaternary. 3) The third objective is to study the palaeoclimate changes during late Quaternary in relation to the uplift of Tibetan plateau. The uplift of the Tibetan Plateau had a profound effect on global climate on tectonic scale. However, it will be interesting to know how the late Quaternary climate change in central Asia was affected by the uplift of Tibetan Plateau. 4) The forth objective is to compare the late Quaternary climate change in the northwestern area (the study area) with that in the Loess Plateau in central China. Climate changes in central China dominated by East Asian Monsoon have been well documented in Loess Plateau. However, the climate system in westerly dominated area, such as the study area, has been poorly understood. Whether both of the areas have similar climate change pattern and governing force during late Quaternary is still controversial. This study will provide further information on the late Quaternary climate change in northwestern China. 5) This project is to train undergraduate students to enhance their knowledge, ability and interest in research. |
| Project Title: | 1st Luminescence in Archaeology International Symposia iIRSL DATING OF K-FELDSPAR AND ITS APPLICATION TO FAJIAGOUWAN, SALAWUSU SITE IN CENTRAL CHINA |
| Investigator(s): | Li SH |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | URC/CRCG - Conference Grants for Teaching Staff |
| Start Date: | 09/2009 |
| Completion Date: | 09/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| N/A |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Gong G.L., Li S.H., Sun W.D., Guo F., Xia B. and Lu B.F., Quartz thermoluminescence - another potential paleothermometer for sedimentary basin thermal history study, Journal of Chinese geophysics . 2010, 53: 138-146. |
| Li S.H., Li B., Wintle A...G..., Zhao H. and Yin G... .M..., iIRSL Dating of K-feldspar and Its Application to Fajiagouwan, Salawusu Site in Central China (keynote speech), 1st Luminescence in Archaeology International Symposia, Greece . 2009. |
| Li S.H., iIRSL dating of K-feldspar (invited lecture), 2nd Asia-Pacific Conference on Luminescence and ESR Dating, India . Ahmedabad India, 2009. |
| Li S.H., iIRSL dating of K-feldspar, 2nd Asia-Pacific Conference on Luminescence and ESR Dating, Ahmedabad, India. India, 2009. |
| Li S.H., Li B., Wintle A.G., Zhao H. and Yin G.M., iIRSL dating of k-feldspar and its application to fajiagouwan, salawusu site in central China , 1st Luminescence in Archaeology International Symposia, Greece . Greece, 2009. |
| Researcher : Li X |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Li X., Guo J. and Zhao G., Metamorphism and geochronology of the Khondalite Series in the Jining area, North China Craton, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 449. |
| Zhao G., Wilde S.A., Guo J., Cawood P.A., Sun M. and Li X., Single zircon grains record two continental collisional events in the North China craton, Precambrian Research. 2010, 177: 266-276. |
| Researcher : Li YL |
| Project Title: | Enhanced Bacterial Sulphate-Reduction and Iron Sulphide Mineralization Resulted From SO2 Emission |
| Investigator(s): | Li YL |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 04/2008 |
| Completion Date: | 08/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| Anthropogenic emission of SO2 by combustion of fossil fuels has serious impacts on ecological, environmental and human health. SO2 turns to wet-sulphate deposition in soil and aqueous environments which can be reduced by sulphate-reducing bacteria by metabolism at ambient temperatures. The biogenic volatile sulphide can react with iron around and experiences complex kinetic processes until being fixed as disulphide in reduced environments. This study aims to evaluate (1) if SO2 pollution can cause an increase of the population of sulphate-reducing bacterial and, (2) if the subsequent biomineralization of iron sulphides, and iron and sulphur cycling in SO2 polluted area are accelerated. This study will provide a preliminary approach on future tests on SO2 sequestration by sulphate-reducing bacteria with bioremediation considerations. |
| Project Title: | The 5th Astrobiology Science Conference Thermophiles as candidate iron-reducing bacteria for the putative biogenic magnetite in banded iron formations |
| Investigator(s): | Li YL |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | URC/CRCG - Conference Grants for Teaching Staff |
| Start Date: | 04/2008 |
| Abstract: |
| N/A |
| Project Title: | Planetary Evolution of Ferric Iron Metabolism |
| Investigator(s): | Li YL |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 01/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| 1) To synthesize and characterize iron oxides at elevated temperatures and test their bioavailability by pure culture of thermophilic iron-reducing bacteria. The crystalinity will be characterized by X-ray diffraction, X-ray absorption spectroscopy and Mössbauer spectroscopy. The bioavailability will be evaluated by the growth of cell, the reduction rate of iron by chemical and biochemical methods. 2) Deep subsurface samples will be collected from depth with thermophilic iron-reducing temperature regime. Both old and fresh core samples will be collected. The sample for phospholipid fatty acid, respiratory quinone and DNA extraction will be preserved by dry ice in field and during transportation; samples for isolation will be protected by ultrahigh pure nitrogen gas. All items contact with samples will be sterilized. 3) Bacterial lipid and respiratory quinone will be extracted, purified, quantified and characterized by gas chromatography, gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy and liquid chromatography mass spectroscopy to reveal their significances in microbial ecology and taxonomy. 4) Unaltered magnetite lamina from banded iron formation worldwide will be examined for its mineralogy and the crystallochemical composition of magnetite. Mössbauer spectroscopy and high-angle X-ray diffraction methods will be used for this study. 5) The possible existence of Fe(III)/Fe(II) salt of acetate will be tested by a acetyl-CoA kit. This result is expected to prove the existence of acetate as the universal electron donor source in later Archaean to early Proterozoic ocean. 6) Thermoanaerobacter sp. TOR39 will be cultured to prepare biogenic magnetite and the according mineral assemblage so as to compare with the potential biomineralization in the subsurface samples and magnetite lamina in banded iron formation. 7) The isolated thermophilic iron-reducing bacteria will be purified and analyzed for its phylogeny and physiology. The biodiversity of subsurface thermophilic iron-reducing bacteria will be approached based on their geographical distribution and variations along the columns. |
| Project Title: | Adsorption and extraction of heavy metals or radionuclides by strongly magnetic magnetite nanoparticles produced by dissimilatory metal-reducing bacteria |
| Investigator(s): | Li YL |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Applied Research |
| Start Date: | 03/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| The carelessness of mine waste disposal and lack of protection of environments during mining or using rude metallurgical technique in the past three decades coursed damage to environments, vegetation die-off and rocket-speed increase of cancer and other diseases in China (e.g., Zhang and Tang, 2006). The rapid oxidization of sulfides and other Fe(II)-minerals may release ions to river, pond and groundwater; the hydrolysis of Fe(II) and Fe(III) turns those iron species into colloids with absorbed heavy metals and metalloids (HM) which can be stable in the environments for long time. Despite numerous reports on public media, there are nearly 200 reports in Chinese journals since 1994 reported the stunningly increase of cancer case load in the last two decades. The serious pollutions turn numerous beautiful “peach-flower village” into “cancer village”, as reported elsewhere in Chinese media. For example, Shang Ba village in Shao Guan, Guangdong province is called “Cancer Village” by local people and the soil in that area is called “poisonous soil” (see Fig.1 in Section VI). There were 210 out of 250 people in Sang Ba Village died from cancer from 1986 to 1999 and more than 130 people died from cancer from 1999 to present. Mining of multi-metals in places like Shang Ba released HM such as Pb, Cd, Hg, Mn, Fe, Cu, Sn, Zn, As, Se, among others, into the air, soil, river, pond and groundwater and finally into the food chain of local ecosystem and human being (e.g., Fu et al., 2007; Chen et al., 2007). As the consequence, about 40% of vegetables in the farms of Pearl Delta contain HM higher than national standards (BG5749－85) (http:// www.chinareviewnews.com), and more than 10% contains significantly high of some metals. Similarly, villages and cities in large area around Bao Tou Steel Factory and its mine tails sites in Inner Mongolia also suffer from extremely high death rate of cancer coursed by the pollution of those HM & radionuclides (RN) such as Th (http:// www.singtaonet.com/ society_focus/ t20060921_ 338214.html). Though measures are legitimatized to prevent pollutions from mining and metallurgy, the already produced pollutions are rarely remediated due to the high cost and other reasons. The mostly discussed and tested remediation methods to remediate contamination of HM & RN include using artificial materials, plants and microorganism, as reported in China (e.g., Chen et al., 2007; Teng et al., 2007; Qu et al., 2008) and internationally (e.g., Khan et al., 2000; Valls and de Lorenzo, 2002; Mulligan et al., 2001). Cleanup of HM & RN is particularly difficult due to the relatively low concentration of these metals and their mixing with complex, mostly sub-micrometer to nanometer earth-materials (e.g, Tandy et al., 2004). Bacteria have been shown to be effective indicators and processors of metal contamination (e.g., Walls & Lorenzo, 2002). Among the advantage and disadvantages of various remediation methods, the cost and efficiency are the most important issues, especially when dealing with the sites in the remote regions of China and other undeveloped countries. In this study, we propose to test the usage of strong magnetic magnetite nanoparticles (MMNP) produced by dissimilatory metal-reducing bacteria (DMRB) to clean up HM & RN in contaminated colloids. This method has several advantages: (1) The DMRB can magnetize amorphous iron enzymatically at high speed and efficiency, (2) the bioavailable iron for metabolism is abundant in the harmful metal-containing colloids, (3) the carbon source for bacteria metabolism is cheap, (4) the biogenic magnetic nanoparticles are strong absorbent for HM & RN and can be extracted by simply applying a magnetic field and, (5) the engineering tests are easy to be carried out in contaminated fields with simple procedures. References Chen, C.H., Ni, S.J., He, B.B., Zhang, C.J., 2007. Heavy metals contamination of soils I in De Xing Mine, Jiang Xi Province, China. Earth and Environment 35, 134-141. Chen, F.Y., Lu, M., Tang, Y.B., 2007. Research on the application of nano-iron in water pollution control. Industrial Safety and Environmental Protection 33, 18-20. Fu, S.M., Zhou, Y.Z., Zhao, Y.Y., Zeng, F., Gao, Q.Z., Peng, X.Z., Dang, Z., Zhang, G.B., Yang, X.Q., Yang, Z.J., Dou, L., Qiu, R.L., Ding, J., 2007. Study on heavy metals in soils contaminated by acid mine drainage from Dabaoshan Mine, Guangdong. Environmental Sciences 28, 805-812. Khan, A.G., Kuek, C., Chaudhry, T.M., Khoo, C.S., Hayes, W.J., 2000. Role of plants, mycorrhizae and phytochelators in heavy metal contaminated land remediation. Chemosphere 41, 197-207. Mulligan, C.N., Yong, R.N., Gibbs, B.F., 2001. Remediation technologies for metal-contaminated soils and groundwater: an evaluation. Engineering Geology 60, 198-207. Qu, R., Meng, W., Li, J.S., Ding, A.Z., Jin, Y.B., 2008. Research progress on phytoremediation of heavy metal contaminated soil. Chinese Journal of Ecology 27, 626-631. Tandy, S., Bossart, K., Mueller, R., Ritschel, J., Hauser, L., Schulin, R., Nowack, B., 2004. Extraction of heavy metals from soils using biodegradable chelating agents. Environmental Science and Technology 38, 937-944. Teng, Y., Luo, Y.M., Li, Z.G., 2007. Principles and techniques of microbial remediation of polluted soils. Soil 39, 497-502. Walls, M., de Lorenzo, V., 2002. Exploiting the genetic and biochemical capacities of bacteria for the remediation of heavy metal pollution. FEMS Microbiology Review 26, 327-338. ZHONG, G.M., TANG, Z.Z., 2006, Environmental Cadmium, Lead and Arsenic pollution and health impact: research progress in China. Journal of Environments and Health 23, 562-565. |
| Project Title: | Extremely Enrichment of Polymetal Sulfides in Lower Cambrian Black Shale In Southern China: Biosorption & Mineralization of Genetic Materials As Possible Mechanisms |
| Investigator(s): | Li YL, Chan LS |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 10/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| 1) Sampling, geochemical and magnetometric examinations. This part includes the accurate analyses of the stoichiometric ratios of ulfur and transition metals. The result will be used to calculate the model composition of TMSC in the black shale. Rapid magnetometric measurements allows the detection of pyrrhotite, which might be an intermediate phase indicating redox process. 2) Biomimetic Synthesis of TMSC. Some TMSC will be synthesized through thermal-chemical methods. For those of iron-sulfide series, FeS2 will be synthesizes with methods by Wei and Osseo-Asare (1997). Fe3S4, Fe7S8, Fe9S11 are unique iron sulfides due to their strong ferrimagnetic properties. We hypothesize that magnetic iron sulfides have stoichiometry as [FeS2]m[FeS]n. When m=1, n=1, the mineral is Fe3S4; when m-1, n=6, the composition is Fe7S8. Pure phases of FeS and FeS2 will be synthesized and purified under strict ananerobic conditions. The mixture is treated, for example, by calcinations under certain physicochemical conditions, to mimetic aging and recrystalization processes. 3) Syntheses of dinuclear metal-sulfides in bacterial sulfate-reducing systems. Iron sulfides will be prepared in sulfate-reducing systems amended with iron oxides and Fe(III)-containing clay minerals. Low concentration of heavy metals other than Fe will be added to the culture for examination of adsorption and mineralization of them in iron sulfides in microbial cultures. 4) Synthesis of TMSC in organic chemical systems. Synthesis of Fe2S2, Fe3S4, Fe4S4 and other metal-sulfur clusters will basically follow the procedures developed by Hagen et al. (1983). Transition metals will also be prepared for their adsorptions on the synthesized iron-sulfur clusters. 5) Sorption of metals by microbial biomass and ultrafine iron-sulfide nanoparticles. Strains of sulfate-reducing bacteria, Beggiatoaceae and seaweed will be observed for their adsorptions of transition metals during their growth. The results will be used to model the long-term accumulation of metals by biomass in stagnant ocean as a geological agent. Biogenic and chemical prepared iron-sulfide nanoparticles will be used to sequestrate transition metals. 6) Analyses of TMSC by 57-Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy and X-ray absorption spectroscopic methods. Iron species will be measured by Mössbauer spectroscopy; All transition metals and sulfur will be examined for their valence distribution, coordiantion and short-range environments by X-ray absorption near-edge spectroscopy and extended X-ray absorption fine structures. 7) Extraction and analysis of amino acids and genetic materials. Sampling and extraction of genetic material from the black shales will follow the protocols developed by Griffiths et al. (2000). The quantification and calculation of RNA/DNA ratio by spectroscopic and chromatographic methods will follow procedures by Dell’Anno et al. (1998). The sequencing of genes will follow procedures described by Inagaki et al. (2005). The selection of primers will also follow Inagaki et al. (2005), with the addition of primers for marine algae. |
| Project Title: | Biogeochemistry and Biomineralization of Psychrophilic Metal-Reducing Bacteria in Deep-Sea Environments |
| Investigator(s): | Li YL |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 04/2010 |
| Abstract: |
| Microbial ferric iron-reducing is the essential biological processes that anticipates geochemical cycling of elements in aquatic environments (e.g., Jørgensen and Fenchel, 1973; Nealson and Saffarini, 1994; Croal et al., 2004). More than 90% of the globe sea floor is of low temperature (Levitus and Boyer, 1994; Morris et al., 2000) in which the psychrophilic microorganisms thrive (Harder and Veldkamp, 1971; D’Amico et al., 2006). Most reported metal-reducing bacteria (MRB) grow fastest at around 20-30°C (Lovley et al., 2004) but slow at low temperature. Recently, there is an increasing attention in the psychrophilic bacteria that capable of Fe- and Mn-reducing (e.g., Bowman et al., 1997; Russel and Nichols, 1999; Gentile et al., 2003; Borris et al., 2003; Nevin et al., 2005). MRB in those environments have to overcome key barriers such as reduced enzyme activity, decreased membrane fluidity, and changed transportation of nutrients and waste products as their community neighbors (D’Amico et al., 2006). However, the impact of psychrophilic MRB on the geochemical cycling of elements in the marine sedimentary environments (MSE) is still not clear. It is a common wisdom that sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) can be detected in MSE ubiquitously (Canfield et al., 1993; Jørgensen, 1982). Where inhabited, SRB build highly reduced geochemical environments by reducing high-valence metals such as Fe(III)- and Mn(IV)-oxides with biogenic reduced sulfur and therefore may compete with IRB by exhausting the metal electron acceptors. However, the analyses of the valences of Fe and Mn in ferromanganese modules indicated the dominance of oxidized status (Murad and Schwertmann, 1988; Dutta et al., 1997) and more importantly, those oxidized Fe and Mn oxides are potentially bioavailabile to metals reducing bacteria because of their low crystalinity or amorphous status. There are two microbiological factors that may influence the long term stability of high valence Fe/Mn oxides in the nodule: sulfate and metal metabolism. Bacterial sulfate reduction as the predominant mechanism in sulfate reduction at ambient temperatures, produce H2S which may react with high valent Fe/Mn and thereby mobilize it to aquatic phase. On the other side, the dissimilatory MRB may direct reduce those metals to as an energy yielding process. These two processes are competitive (Chapelle and Lovley, 1992). The stability of oxidized Fe/Mn oxides in nodule implies unique microbial niches and subsequently unique geochemical zonation structure. This scenario raises questions about the role of MRB in energy flow and elemental cycle in MSE. Those questions could be summarized as below: (1) Are high-valence metals (Fe and Mn) still the main electron acceptors for the psychrophilic IRB? (2) Will they precipitate magnetite as their mesophilic relatives? (3) What’s the impacts of low temperature on the biomineralization by IRB? (4) What are the molecular biomarkers of microorganisms that suffered stresses of low temperature and high pressure? This research will start with two aspects: (1) the laboratory observation on the biomineralization of Mn- and Fe-oxides and carbonates by psychrophilic MRB under simulated marine geochemical environments and, (2) the investigation on the geochemical cycles and biomineralization in MSE with emphasis on psychrophilic IRB. Besides those microorganism that metabolite ferric iron, magnetotactic bacteria whose magnetotaxis is influenced by the Earth’s geomagnetic fields are also widely distributed in ocean aquatic environments with vertical chemical stratification. They are highly populated at the oxic-anoxic interface and the anoxic regions. This oxic-anoxic interface in ocean is basically determined by the balance between the downward oxygen diffusing gradient and the upward diffusing gradient of H2S produced by sulfate-reducing bacteria. This special need in ecological niche makes it difficult to evaluate the role of magnetotactic bacteria in iron cycling in marine environments, despite its possible ocean-wide distribution (Simmons and Edwards, 2006). Detection of live magnetotactic bacteria in ocean of >3000 m depth already challenged our understanding of it physiology and mechanism of biomineralization and magnetoreception (Petermann and Bleil, 1992). There is so far no report on magnetotactic bacteria in deeper ocean environments, where the in situ redox condition, the ability of cell to adapt higher pressure, lower temperature and the preservation of geomagnetic record and so on, may greatly different from those observations of shallow aquatic environments. The DY105-12/14 cruise of Da Yang No.1 provided deep sea sediment cores collected by a multi-core sampler on September 2004 at the ES0303 station of east Pacific Nodule Province (8º21’11”N, 145º24’09”W). The depth of the site is 5274 m and the in situ temperature is 1.5ºC. The unique T-P condition and the coexistence of ferromanganese nodule provide excellent opportunity in study geomicrobiology related topics, such as the microbial ecology, respiratory type, P-T and/or nutrition status resulted stress effects and biomineralization of Fe- and Mn-oxides. |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Li Y.L. and Zhu S., Authigenic and biogenic minerals in volcanic hot springs of Kamchatka, Russia, Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta. 2010, 74: A598. |
| Li Y.L., Geobiology of Hot Springs From Kamchatka, Russia, 2010. |
| Li Y.L., Microbial respiratory quinones as indicator of ecophysiological redox conditions, Frontiers of Earth Science of China. Elsevier, 2010, 4: 195-204. |
| Li Y.L., Microbial respiratory quinones as indicator of ecophysiological redox conditions, Geoscience Frontiers. 2010, 4: 195-204. |
| Li Y.L., Nano-Tectonics in ca. 2.5 Billion Years Old Banded Iron Formation, 2009. |
| Li Y.L., 宇宙中的宜居带(中), In: 中国国家天文台, 中国国家天文, 2009, 6: 34-37. |
| Li Y.L., 宇宙中的宜居带(下), In: 中国国家天文台, 中国国家天文, 2009, 6: 36-39. |
| Zhu S. and Li Y.L., Quartz nanoparticles in 2461-2495 million years old banded iron formation from Dales Gorge, Hamersley, Western Australia, Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta. 2010, 74: A1234. |
| Researcher : Lin S |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Li L., Sun M., Wang Y., Xing G.F., Lin S., Zhao G., Xia X., Wong P.M. and Zhang F.F., Zircon U-Pb and Hf isotopic study for the migmatised amphibolites in the Cathaysia Block: implications for the granulite facies metamorphism of Caledonian event in Southeast China, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 252. |
| Researcher : Liu C |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Liu C., Zhao G. and Sun M., U-Pb and Hf study on detrital zircons from the Hutuo Group of the Wutai Complex: constraints on the timing of collision between the Eastern and Western Blocks in the North China Craton, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 256. |
| Researcher : Liu L |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Liu L., Origin and Early Evolution of the Atmospheres and Oceans on the Terrestrial Planets, In: John H. Denis and Paul D. Aldridge, Space Exploration Research. Nova Science Publishers, 2009. |
| Researcher : Liu X |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Li S.Z., Kusky T.M., Liu X., Zhang G.W., Zhao G., Wang L. and Wang Y., Two-stage collision-related extrusion of the western Dabie HP-UHP metamorphic terranes, central China: Evidence from quartz c-axis fabrics and structures, Gondwana Research. 2009, 16: 294-309. |
| Researcher : Liu Z |
| Project Title: | Looking for biomarkers from ancient Lake Qinghai sediments |
| Investigator(s): | Liu Z |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 06/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| The Tibetan Plateau is a source of significant information about the past climatic and environmental history of the Asian land mass. Numerous paleoclimatic records, retrieved from lake sediments, loess deposits, sedimentary rocks and ice cores, suggest that regional climatic change is closely linked to and a critical component of global climatic changes. However, most of these climatic records are limited to the last ~100,000 years. Terrestrial climatic archives retrieved from earlier periods are very rare, which significantly limits our understanding of how past terrestrial climate and environment evolved. This proposal takes advantage of the fact that two long (~1000 meters) lake sediment cores, with the oldest sediment being Pliocene age (~5 million years old), were retrieved from Lake Qinghai by the Lake Qinghai Drilling Program. Although some analyses, addressing sediment physical properties and inorganic proxies, have been done, much remains to be explored. The PI proposes to look for organic proxies (biomarkers) from older sections of these two cores. Three types of organic compounds, which can derive past climatic and environmental information, are of particular interest: ˙Alkenones. They are produced by a limited number of alga living in the surface waters, and faithfully indicate lake surface temperature (UK’37) and salinity (%C37:4) changes. ˙Glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers or GDGT. GDGTs are important components of archaeal membrane and sensitive to environmental temperature changes (lake water temperature, TEX86 and soil/air temperature, MBT). ˙Alkanes/fatty acids. Hydrogen isotopes of alkanes/fatty acids can indicate regional hydrological changes (dry/wet conditions). Although these organic proxies prove to be very powerful in past climate and environment studies, most of the studies addressed the time period of last ~100,000 years when these organic compounds can be generally obtained. It remains uncertain whether these organic compounds were also preserved in 5-million-years-old sediments from Lake Qinghai. This proposal is an exploratory project in nature. However, if successful, it will greatly enhance our understanding of Asian monsoon dynamics. |
| Project Title: | Investigation of Late Holocene Hydrological Changes in Lake Qinghai and Qaidam Basin Using Alkenone D/H Ratios |
| Investigator(s): | Liu Z |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 07/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| 1) Investigate how alkenone D/H ratios are related to lake salinity and lake water D/H ratios, to infer potential mechanisms of the salinity control on alkenone D/H ratios, 2) Establish a quantitative or semi-quantitative relationship between alkenone D/H ratios and lake salinity, 3) Reconstruct late Holocene hydrological changes in Lake Qinghai and lakes in the Qaidam Basin, 4) Compare reconstructed alkenone D/H ratio records to alkenone ratio (UK’37 and %C37:4, see Background of research) proxy records, which can indicate temperature and salinity variations and can be simultaneously obtained in this project, to infer the association of local hydrological changes with local temperature changes, 5) Correlate alkenone D/H ratio records with existing proxy records in this region and elsewhere to address the possible heterogeneity of hydrological changes in this region, the interplay of different circulation systems, and connections to other regional climate systems. 6) Train potential postgraduate students at HKU in the field of organic geochemistry and paleoclimatology. |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Herbert T.D., Peterson L.C., Lawrence K.T. and Liu Z., Tropical ocean temperatures over the past 3.5 million years, Science. 2010, 328: 1530-1538. |
| Liu Z., Plio-Pleistocene SST changes in warm pool regions and linkages to global climate, Western Pacific Geophysics Meeting. 2010. |
| Pagani M., Liu Z., LaRiviere J. and Ravelo A.C., High Earth-system climate sensitivity determined from Pliocene carbon dioxide concentrations, Nature Geoscience. 2010, 3: 27-30. |
| Researcher : Long X |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Cai K., Sun M., Yuan C., Zhao G., Xiao W., Long X. and Wu F., Zircon U-Pb and Hf isotopic study of granitoids from the Chinese Altai: implications for continuous magmatic activity, crust nature and tectonic scenario in the early to middle Paleozoic, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 289. |
| Long X., Yuan C., Sun M., Xiao W., Zhao G., Wang Y.J., Cai K., Xia X. and Xie L.W., Detrital zircon ages and Hf isotopes of the early Paleozoic flysch sequence in the Chinese Altai, NW China: New constrains on depositional age, provenance and tectonic evolution, Tectonophysics. 2010, 480: 213-231. |
| Long X., Yuan C., Sun M., Xiao W., Zhao G., Zhou K.F., Wang Y.J. and Hu A.Q., Petrological record of 2.65 Ga rocks in the Kuluketage area, North Tarim, 3th Symposium on Structural Geology and Geodynamics. Guangzhou, Abstracts. 2010, p. 154. |
| Yin J.Y., Yuan C., Sun M., Long X., Zhao G., Wong K.P., Geng H.Y. and Cai K., Late Carboniferous high-Mg dioritic dikes in Western Junggar, NW China: Geochemical features, petrogenesis and tectonic implications, Gondwana Research. 2010, 17: 145-152. |
| Yuan C., Sun M., Xiao W., Long X., Zhao G. and Cai K., Late Paleozoic magmatism in the Balikun area, eastern Tianshan: caused by mantle plume, ridge subduction or slab break off?, 3th Symposium on Structural Geology and Geodynamics. Guangzhou, Abstracts. 2010, p. 294. |
| Researcher : Malpas JG |
| Project Title: | Investigation of the gabbros and dykes of the Troodos Ophiolite, Cyprus: a study of the lower oceanic crustal structure and its implications for magma chamber processes |
| Investigator(s): | Malpas JG |
| Department: | V-C's Office |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Small Project Funding |
| Start Date: | 10/2007 |
| Abstract: |
| The Troodos ophiolite of Cyprus is taken as the finest example of a cross section of oceanic lithosphere preserved on land (Robinson et al, 2003). One of the key areas of investigation of the oceanic crust is the nature of the boundary between Layer 2 and Layer 3, which has been seismically defined in situ but which have not been conclusively recognized in ophiolite suites. The boundary might be expressed petrologically, structurally or on the basis of metamorphism and alteration. The boundary either coincides with or is very close to the junction between gabbros which make up the majority of Layer 3, and overlying Sheeted Dykes. Oceanic lithosphere is produced at different rates along modern spreading axes and well-developed sheeted dyke complexes in ophiolites have been interpreted, probably incorrectly, as the products of fast-spreading ridges, whereas poorly developed complexes were thought to have formed at slow-spreading ridges. This interpretation is based on knowledge that fast-spreading mid-ocean ridges arte characterized by voluminous magma supplies, whereas slow-spreading sections have low magma supplies and are characterized by extensive tectonic disruption. On the other hand, we are very aware that the tectonic environment of formation of many ophiolites is distinctly different from that of mid-ocean ridges (Robinson et al, op cit), and that as such, a simple correlation is naive. • The first objective of this investigation is therefore to test the model relating the development of the sheeted dyke complex to the rate of magmatic versus amagmatic ( tectonic) spreading in the Troodos lithosphere. Part of the equation which allows for calculation of the cooling of oceanic crust after formation at a spreading centre is to quantify the heat and mass fluxes associated with the low-temperature hydrothermal circulation that occurs in older portions of crust at temperatures <25 degrees Celsius. Although this leaves little effect on the rocks it likely carries considerable heat than the near axis, high-temperature alteration. One chemical tracer that is sensitive to low-temperature alteration is Lithium (with two isotopes 6LI and 7Li). Lithium appears to be leached from the crust by high-temperature circulation and added back in by low-temperature activity during the formation of clay minerals. The uptake of seawater Li during low temperature alteration can be traced Li concentration and isotope ratio, since the isotopes are strongly fractionated between seawater and fresh basalts. • The second objective is to examine the extent of low-temperature, off axis hydrothermal circulation in the dykes and upper gabbros by investigating the partitioning of Li isotopes and overall Li concentrations. Our previous work (e.g. Malpas and Langdon, 1984; Robinson and Malpas, 1990) has shown that two principle types of magma are found to have fed the Troodos spreading centres, a basaltic andesite series, and a boninitic series. Because lavas of the boninitic series dominate in the upper pillow lava section, and because late boninitic intrusions occur in places in the plutonic series, this has been interpreted as showing two distinct periods of magmatism, an early andesitic period and a later boninitic episode. But there are problems with this. Not only are there some boninitic lavas deep within the lava pile, no such distinct stratigraphic (successional) relationship can be found in the sheeted dykes. The magma plumbing system does not seem to correlate with the eruptions. • The third objective is therefore to develop a model to explain the relationships between the plutonic rocks, hypabyssal dykes, and eruptive rocks that provides for a lava stratigraphy in the absence of a lithological succession in the plutonics. Understanding the size and frequency of the additions of magma to the lithosphere, together with the various compositions of the melts involved, where they pond, and the nature of their injection, provide the starting points for understanding the processes of lower crustal accretion. Given the crustal thickness and spreading rate as relative constants in any one area, the frequency of magma replenishment and the volume of each magma batch must be inversely related. These factors are also related to the heat supply. Continuous flow into a magma chamber provides for a relatively slow rate of magma recharge and little heat addition. Highly episodic magma supply would lead to equally episodic heat supply. These processes are directly related to the manner in which magma is extracted from the mantle, whether through channelized porous flow, pervasive porous flow or in fractures. • The fourth objective is to try to understand the method of melt extraction from the mantle by delineating the processes going on in the magma chamber receiving the magma, and the processes involved in its eruption through the dyke complex, thus placing constraints on the thermal properties of the new lithosphere. |
| Project Title: | Metasomatism and evolution of the lithospheric mantle beneath northern Syria: constraints from textural, P-T and geochemical studies of mantle xenoliths |
| Investigator(s): | Malpas JG |
| Department: | V-C's Office |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Small Project Funding |
| Start Date: | 09/2008 |
| Completion Date: | 02/2010 |
| Abstract: |
| Mantle xenoliths, inclusions of peridotitic mantle rock in host basaltic lavas, are valuable in providing first-hand information about the history of the deep lithosphere from which they are derived. Their textures, mineral composition and zonation, and isotopic signatures, for instance, can give insight to the thermal and compositional evolution of the lithosphere. This is of particular importance for studying the mantle of continental lithosphere, which is generally thought to have suffered from multistage melting and fluid/melt/rock interaction events. A number of mantle xenolith occurrences in the Cenozoic volcanic fields of the western Arabian Peninsular have been reported. Those from the eastern coast of the Red Sea (Yemen–Saudi Arabia) have been well studied, and workers have documented at least one major mantle depletion (melting?) event at ~700–600 Ma and various additional enrichment events, in the deep Arabian lithosphere of the Red Sea side of the Peninsula. Some more recent major thermal disruptions and melt-rock interactions have also been recorded by additional mantle xenoliths, and have been linked to the emplacement of the Afar plume and mantle upwelling associated with the Red Sea opening. We have now discovered numerous occurrences in northern and central Syria, which might provide clues to the mantle evolution of this part of the Arabian lithosphere. Did similar depletion, enrichment and thermal events happen there? The fact that the petrology of the northwestern Arabian lithospheric mantle (especially that beneath the northern segment of the Dead Sea Fault System) is, as yet, poorly understood, prevents a straight-forward yes-or-no answer. Some limited previous studies in this area were carried out before recent advances in petrology and analytical techniques, such as LA-ICP-MS, and focussed mainly on descriptive work and limited mineral analysis, techniques now proven to be problematic due to the possible selection of unrepresentative mineral data. The overall goal of this study is therefore to attempt a preliminary reconstruction of the thermal, mineralogical, and compositional evolutionary history (isotopic and elemental) of northwestern Arabia lithospheric mantle, through the five objectives stated below. We have sampled a suite of previously unstudied spinel-facies peridotite and pyroxenite xenoliths from the Pliocene–Quaternary Al Ghab volcanic field of northwestern Syria. Using these samples, the first two objectives are to fill the major research gaps identified above — a) to reconstruct the thermal (and barometric) evolution (the P-T-t conditions) of the northwestern Arabian lithospheric mantle through studying zonation chemistry of the minerals in the xenoliths; and b) to provide the first isotopic data (Sr–Nd–Pb) for the mantle beneath Syria. The second objective has additional value in providing insight into the potential source of the volcanic rocks that host the xenoliths in this region. The third objective c) involves understanding fine-scale mantle processes such as mantle metasomatism, and is built upon our preliminary studies. We have revealed considerable inconsistencies in the bulk compositions of some of the xenoliths. Some rocks exhibit a depleted major-element chemistry but an enriched trace-element and rare-earth element chemistry (enriched in large ion lithophile element- [LILE-] and light rare earth element- [LREE-]). Such a phenomenon has been identified in xenoliths from other parts of the world such as Victoria (Australia), Dreiser Weiher (Germany) and Arizona (USA) and interpreted as incorporation of an LILE-enriched fluid or melt into a depleted residual mantle rock. In support of this, we have also identified various hydrous minerals such as mica and amphibole as well as some clinopyroxene and glasses typical of metasomatic assemblages in some of our peridotite xenoliths. However, the exact nature and agent of the metasomatism is not clear as detailed mineral chemistry of these metasomatic phases is yet to be collected. Obtaining these data will underpin the third objective of this study. The fourth objective d) is to identify the origin of some patches of peculiar mineral assemblages that we have identified in preliminary petrographic examinations. These patches are dominated by disseminated or spongy-textured clinopyroxene in association with glass and tiny euhedral Al-rich spinels. They may be relics of partial melting or more likely sequential mantle melts that have been impregnated into and subsequently reacted with, the mantle wall-rocks. Since evidence for partial melting or melt impregnation has never been documented for these rocks before, the significance and origin of these textures is still speculative. The last objective e) is to try to elucidate the origin of pyroxene-rich and amphibole-rich rocks in the mantle and their relationships with other peridotites. Within our currently collected xenolith sample suite from northern Syria, pyroxene-rich and amphibole-rich xenoliths and megacrysts make up no less than a tenth of the total. They are texturally and compositionally different from other peridotites, displaying a more enriched nature (trace element and REE primitive mantle-normalised patterns and values similar to the host basalts, i.e. OIB-like). These pyroxenites, hornblendites and megacrysts have elsewhere been considered as mantle cumulates or precipitates associated with vein-like conduits in the upper mantle or lower crust. Although in Syria they are not rare and so must have played a considerable role in mantle processes of this region, they have not yet been studied in detail. Previous work has tentatively suggested that some pyroxenites from southern Syria might have resulted from crystal accumulation in association with Late Cenozoic magmatism. However, there is as yet, no solid evidence of such cognate relationships. |
| Project Title: | Investigation of the causes and consequence of Acid Mine waters in disused open pit Cu-Fe sulphide mines |
| Investigator(s): | Malpas JG |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Dr. Stephen S.F. Hui Trust Fund |
| Start Date: | 09/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| Georgius Agricola, in 1556, was the first recognize the environmental impacts of Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) and today this problem is regarded as one of the most important issues facing the mining industry in terms of real and potential environmental damage. AMD can be defined as contaminated drainage which is produced whenever water containing oxygen comes into contact with sulphur present as sulphides in the ore, gangue, waste rock tips and tailings dumps of active or disused base metal mines. The characteristics of AMD are low pH, high electrical conductivity, high concentrations of sulphate and related ions, and concentrations of dissolved base metals and other trace leements of in toxic amounts locally. These environmental implications are potentially long term ( up to several decades or more) and are associated with accompanying liabilities for public health, agricultural production and land rehabilitation. Acidity, with pH’s as low as 2, and associated heavy metal contamination in run-off and seepage water from waste rock and tailings containing e.g. sulphide minerals such as pyrite/pyrrhotite, are common in mining operations globally. The main objective of this study is to understand the processes involved in the production of acid mine waters, and the transportation and deposition of trace elements, many of which occur in the waters in toxic abundances, in a clearly defined geographic system, upon which the external controls are variable but definable and measurable. In order to meet this objective it is necessary to: a). define a complete system in which the acid waters are produced, move, react, become neutralized or taken up. This means from the nature and chemistry of the original precipitation, through the sulphide/water interactions, to the permanent or long term residence of the waters and the elements carried within them b). identify the important trace elements that are transported throughout the system to ascertain how and when they are concentrated, diluted and mobilized in various components of the system c). determine the internal and external parameters that affect a) and b), for example pH, Eh, temperature, grain size of particulates, dissolved oxygen and availability of oxidizing agents d) determine the key chemical reactions that occur in each of the components of the system, and e) identify the nature of the interfaces between the components and important reactions taking place across them f) determine the importance and conditions of biologic activity, paricularly that of bacteria, in the oxidation of pyritic material in the system under study g) determine the toxicity of the AMD and make recommendations on mitigation and remediation measures Components are defined here as those physical parts of the system that contain the acid properties and trace elements in some form, e.g. sulphide minerals, tailings, sediment run-off, secondary mineralization and precipitates, groundwater and surface run-off, and vegetation. The level of AMD control required is determined by the impact that AMD would have on the environment and this is a function of the quantity and quality of AMD, and the sensitivity of the receiving environment. Once these conditions have been identified for a particular project, as proposed here, the process of evaluation, design and implementation of AMD control may begin. AMD may be controlled either by preventing the acid generation reactions from continuing, controlling the products of the acid generation processes migrating through the environment, or collecting and treaing the drainage. In general, the control of AMD is more difficult than its prevention, because once established, the acid generation is somewhat self-sustaining and difficult to stop. For example, internal heating from exothermic reactions promotes air convection within waste dumps; precipitation of metal sulphate salts, such as jarosite, serve as sources of metals and acidity long after sulphide oxidation has abated. In such cases, control of water inflow MAY be of greater importance than the reduction of free oxygen. It is well known that bacterial pyrite oxidation is a common phenomenaon under certain environmental conditions, but the extent of such compared with physical dismutation processes might be dependent on particular cases. Generally the mechanisms of pyrite oxidation by bacteria are classified into a) direct metabolic reactions and b) indirect metabolic reactions. The former require physical contact between bacteria and the pyrite particles, which is not required in the latter. An attempt will be made to ascertain the relative importance of these reaction types in the proposed case study. |
| Researcher : McNeil DS |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Lee M.H. and McNeil D.S., Constraints on Giant Planet Migration: Obliquities and Stability, CITA@25/Bond@60 Conference, Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada. 2010. |
| McNeil D.S. and Lee M.H., Constraints on Giant Planet Migration: Obliquities and Stability, Ishigaki International Conference on Evolving Theory for Planet Formation. 2010. |
| McNeil D.S., Surviving type I migration (the old and the new): oligarchic formation of hot Neptunes, Winter Workshop on Planetary Astrophysics, KIAA, Peking University, Beijing . 2009. |
| Researcher : Robinson PT |
| List of Research Outputs |
| McLoughlin N., Fliegel D.J., Furnes H., Staudigel A., Zhao G. and Robinson P.T., Assessing the Biogenicity and Syngenicity of Candidate Bioalteration Textures in Pillow Lavas of the .52 Ga Wutai Greenstone Terrane of China, Chinese Science Bulletin. 2010, 55: 188-199. |
| Researcher : Sadjadi S |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Lemke K.H., Sadjadi S. and Seward T.M., FT-ICR/MS and Quantum Chemical Study of the Aqueous Microsolvation of Cadmium Chloride Complexes, Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta, Volume 74, Issue 12, Supplement 1. 2010, 74. |
| Lemke K.H., Sadjadi S. and Seward T.M., FT-ICR/MS and Quantum Chemical Study of the Aqueous Microsolvation of Cadmium Chloride Complexes, Goldschmidt Meeting 2010, Knoxville, TN, Usa. 2010. |
| Sadjadi S., Butt S.K. and Lemke K.H., Thermodynamic and structural stability of (CO2)(n) n=2-4: An ab initio and QTAIM Study, Geochimica Et Cosmochimica Acta. Elsevier, 2009, 73: A1140. |
| Researcher : Santosh MW |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Zhang Z.M., Zhao G., Santosh M.W., Wang J.L., Dong X. and Shen K., Late Cretaceous Adakite-like charnockite from the Gangdese batholith: Evidence for the Neo-Tethyan mid-ocean ridge subduction in southeastern Tibet?, Gondwana Research. 2010, 17: 615-631. |
| Researcher : Shi R |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Shi R., Griffin W.L., O‘Reilly S.Y., Zhao G., Huang Q.S., Li J. and Xu J., Genesis of the Lüliangshan garnet-peridotites in the North Qaidam UHP belt, Northern Tibetan Plateau: Constraints from Re-Os isotopes, Lithos. 2010, 117: 307-321. |
| Researcher : Sun M |
| Project Title: | Petrogenesis and precise geochronology of the Fuping-Wutai-Hengshan metamorphic complexes |
| Investigator(s): | Sun M |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Matching Fund for NSFC Young Researcher Award |
| Start Date: | 04/2001 |
| Abstract: |
| To study petrogenesis and precise geochronology of the Fuping-Wutai-Hengshan metamorphic complexes. |
| Project Title: | The role of melt-mantle reaction in lithospheric thinning underneath North China Craton: geochemical study of minerals and melt inclusions in mantle xenoliths |
| Investigator(s): | Sun M |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 07/2007 |
| Completion Date: | 07/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| Our current understanding is that the old continental crust formed originally from partial melts derived from the primitive mantle and the remaining residue formed the subcontinental lithospheric mantle. This process resulted in relative depletion of Fe and enrichment of Mg in the lithospheric mantle, leading to a lower density (about 3.0g/cm3) than that of the underneath asthenosphere (about 3.35 g/cm3). This density difference helps explain why most cratonic lithosphere has remained stable after formation and why it behaves as rigid plates in the scheme of global tectonics. The lithospheric mantle underneath ancient cratons in the world is commonly stable after its formation. However, this is not the case for the North China Craton. The thick and cold cratonic lithospheric mantle remained intact throughout the Paleozoic, but had changed to a thin and hot lithospheric mantle with oceanic affinity by the Cenozoic, as manifested by data from mantle xenoliths entrained in Paleozoic kimberlites and in the Cenozoic basalts (e.g. Griffin et al., 1992, 1998; Fan and Menzies, 1992; Menzies et al., 1993; Deng et al., 1994; Fan et al., 2000). This means a dramatic physical and chemical change occurred in the lithospheric mantle underneath the NCC sometime during the Mesozoic. The behavior of this craton is remarkably different from its counterparts elsewhere in the world and contradicts our previous understanding of lithospheric evolution. Therefore, it is important to understand the cause of the thinning event, the process and timing of the transformation, the mechanism of the replacement and the overall geodynamic environment in which it occurred. Because this is an interesting and important scientific problem, it has been a major research topic in the last decade, and important progress has been made in understanding this event (e.g. Menzies and Xu, 1998; Xu et al., 1998; Zheng and Lu, 1999; Xu, 2001; Zheng et al. 2001; O'Reilly et al., 2001; Gao et al., 2002; Zhang et al., 2002, 2003, 2004; Wilde et al., 2003; Deng et al., 2004). Much of the data used in these investigations came from mantle xenoliths in Cenozoic and Mesozoic volcanic rocks. The investigators of this study suggested that Si-rich melt may have played a key role in the dramatic thinning of the lithospheric mantle (e.g. Zhang and Sun et al., 2002; Zhang et al., 2002), and propose here a new approach that will focus on minerals and melt inclusions of these xenoliths. Our objectives include: (1) to study the chemical and isotope compositions of the melt in the lithospheric mantle beneath the NCC, (2) to trace the source of the melt in the mantle and (3) to discuss the connection between plate subduction around the NCC and the lithospheric thinning. The results of this study will shed light on the nature and source of the melt in the Mesozoic mantle and help to understand the mechanism of this important lithospheric thinning. |
| Project Title: | U-Pb and Hf isotopes in detrital zircons from the Central Asian Orogenic Belt in NW China and Mongolia: a new tool to reconstruct accretionary processes and crustal evolution |
| Investigator(s): | Sun M, Xia X, Zhao G |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Germany/Hong Kong Joint Research Scheme |
| Start Date: | 01/2008 |
| Completion Date: | 12/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| 1. To determine and compare the age patterns of the detrital zircons from the Chinese and Mongolian Altai and to elucidate the accretionary history of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt; 2. to define the tectonic settings and depositional environmental for clastic metasediments in the Chinese and Mongolian Altai; 3. to compare the age patterns with those of Siberia and Gondwana for palaecogeographic reconstructions; 4. to discuss the constraints provided by this study on the controversial accretionary history of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt. |
| Project Title: | Accretionary process along the southwestern margin of the Central Altaishan Terrane: an integrated field, geochemical and geochronological study |
| Investigator(s): | Sun M, Malpas JG, Xia X |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 01/2008 |
| Abstract: |
| To determine the tectonic setting and age of the pillow lava – diabase – gabbro – pyroxenite in the thrust zone between the Central Altaishan and Qiongkuer Terranes in the Chinese Altai; to define the original tectonic setting and age of the volcanic rocks in the Qiongkuer Terrane; to compare the sedimentary rocks in the thrust zone with those on the Qiongkuer Terrane, and define their provenance and tectonic setting, and to elucidate the accretionary history of the Chinese Altai. |
| Project Title: | Sedimentary provenance study of the Habahe Group sedimentary rocks from the Chinese Altai |
| Investigator(s): | Sun M |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 06/2008 |
| Completion Date: | 06/2010 |
| Abstract: |
| The Central Asian Orogenic Belt (also named Altaids or Altaid collage) is the largest Phanerozoic orogenic belt in the world, extending from the Urals in the west to the Pacific in the east and from Siberia in the north to the Tianshan in the south. When the Paleo-Asian Ocean was closed, a large number of allochthonous terranes including island arcs, submarine plateaus/seamounts, and possibly some micro-continental blocks were accreted during the formation of this orogen (e.g. Sengör et al., 1993; Dobretsov et al., 1995; Sengör and Natal’in, 1996; Jahn et al., 2000, 2004; Windley et al., 2002; Badarch et al., 2002; Khain et al., 2003; Dobretsov et al., 2004; Kuzmichev et al., 2005; Helo et al., 2006). However, because of the allochthonous nature of these terranes, the variety of their original tectonic environments, and the different amalgamation times, we face a great challenge in understanding the geological evolution of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt. The Chinese Altai is the type region of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt. It has been envisaged as a Paleozoic fold-belt (Li et al., 1982; Ren, 1999), passive continental margin (He et al., 1990), subduction-accretion complex (Sengor and Natal’in, 1996), or a Precambrian micro-continent (e.g. Li et al., 2006). In order to correctly understand the accretionary history of this region, these tectonic models must be vigorously tested. Because sedimentary rocks deposited in these different tectonic environments will have distinctive geochemical and isotopic characteristics, sedimentary provenance study will provide firm constraints on these models. This investigation will collect sedimentary rocks from the northern part of the Chinese Altai, whole rock major and trace elements and their Sr-Nd isotopic compositions will be analysed. The results of this study will be used to trace the nature of the proveance of these sedimentary rocks. In addition, detrital zircons will be separated and analyzed for U-Pb and Hf isotopic compositions. Because detrital zircons can survive erosion, transportation, diagenesis, metamorphism and even crustal partial melting, U–Pb geochronology of detrital zircons is by far the most powerful technique for sedimentary provenance study (McLennan et al., 2001; Guan et al., 2002; Fedo et al., 2003; Andersen, 2004; Payne et al., 2006; Moecher and Samson, 2006; Luo et al., 2004; Xia et al., 2006a). Because different contiental blocks are made up of rocks different ages, our results will help in identifying the source continental blocks for these sediments. Hf isotopic compositions of detrital zircons can further shed light in tracing the nature (juvenile/old) of their provenance (e.g. Griffin et al., 2004; Xia et al., 2006b). The results of this study will shed light on the evolutionary history of this important orogenic belt, which will in turn help mineral exploration in the region. References: Andersen, T., K. et al. (2004), Precambrian Res., 135, 217–244. Badarch, G. et al. (2002), J. Asian Earth Sci., 21, 87–110. Dobretsov, N.L. et al. (2004), J. Asian Earth Sci., 23, 673–690. Dobretsov, N.L. et al. (1995), Inter. Geol. Rev., 35, 335–360. Fedo, C.M. et al. (2003), Rev. Mineral. Geochem., 53, 277–303. Griffin, W.L. et al., (2004), Precambrian Res., 131, 231– 282. Guan, H., M. Sun, et al. (2002), Precambrian Res., 113, 1–18. He, G.Q. et al. (1990), Geoscience of Xinjiang, 2, 9–20. Helo, C. et al. (2006), Chem. Geol., 227, 236–257. Jahn, B.M. (2004), in Aspects of the Tectonic Evolution of China, edited by Malpas, J.et al., 73–100. Jahn, B.M. et al. (2000), Trans. R. Soc. Edinb. Earth Sci., 91, 181–193. Khain, E.V. et al. (2003), Precambrian Res., 122, 329–358. Kuzmichev, A. et al. (2005), Precambrian Res., 138, 125–150. Li, C.Y. et al. (Eds.) (1982), Explanatory notes to the tectonic map of Asian, pp. 1–40. Li, H.J. et al. (2006), Acta Petrol. Sin., 22, 1369–1379. Luo, Y., M. Sun et al. (2004), Precambrian Res., 134, 349–371. McLennan, S.M. et al. (2001), J. Sed. Res., 71, 305–317. Moecher, D.P., S.D. Samson (2006), Earth Planet. Sci. Lett., 247, 252–266. Payne, J.L. et al. (2006), Precambrian Res., 148, 275–291. Ren, J.S. et al. (Eds.) (1999), The tectonic map of China and adjacent regions, pp. 1–50. Sengör, A.M.C., B.A. Natal’in (1996), in The tectonic evolution of Asia, pp. 486–640, edited by Yin, A., and M. Harrison. Sengör, A.M.C. et al. (1993), Nature, 364, 299–307. Windley, B.F. et al. (2002), J. Geol., 110, 719–739. Xia, X.P., M. Sun et al. (2006a), Precambrian Res., 144, 199–212. Xia, X.P., M. Sun et al. (2006b), Earth Planet. Sci. Lett., 241, 581–593. |
| Project Title: | Zircon Hf isotopic ratio measurement on a newly funded MC-ICP-MS and application of the technique to petrogenesis of granitic plutons in the Chinese Altai |
| Investigator(s): | Sun M, Xia X |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 06/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| Zircon is a mineral ideal for U-Pb isotopic age determination and widely used for geochronological studies. Our department has played a leading role in establishing technology in determination of zircon U-Pb age by using ICP-MS (inductively coupled plasma - mass spectrometer) (e.g. Xia et al., 2004 and mre than 100 research outputs). In the last decade, zircon Hf isotopic study is rapidly developed (e.g. Griffin et al., 2004, Xia et al., 2006; Sun et al., 2008). In order to stand at the frontier of modern geochemical research in the world, HKU recently funded our department a ~8 million dollar cost MC-ICP-MS (multiple collector - inductively coupled plasma - mass spectrometer) for such kind of study. The proposed project is to allow us to develop the analytical method for zircon Hf isotopic analysis and then apply to five large granitic plutons in the Chinese Altai to study their petrogenesis and tectonic significance. 176Hf is the decay product of 176Lu while 177 Hf is a stable isotope. Because zircon contains relatively high amount of Hf but extremely low content of Lu, the 176Hf/177Hf ratio in zircon remains almost unchanged after zircon formation. Therefore zircon is ideal for Hf isotopic study, it can readily provide important genetic information about their parent magma and magmatic process. Previous studies, including our own, indicate that some large granitic plutons in Chinese Altai have uniform and mantle-like isotopic compositions, which makes the samples ideal for zircon Hf analysis, because data will give unambiguous results and these zircons may be used as standards in future studies (Jahn et al., 2004; Wang et al., 2006, 2008; Yuan et al., 2007; Long et al., 2007; Sun et al., 2008). The objectives of this proposed project will be (1) collect samples and separate zircon minerals from five large granite plutons in the area, (2) set up analytical protocol for Hf isotopic analysis by using a MC-ICP-MS. Pure Hf solution will be used to optimize the machine conditions and a laser probe will be used to ablate zircon standard to set-up in situ analytical method for zircon Hf analysis, and (3) determine Hf isotopic compositions of zircons from the selected five granitic plutons in the Chinese Altai, and (4) evaluate the mantle versus crustal contribution in the petrogenesis of these granitic rocks to constrain the accretionary evolutionary history of the Chinese Altai. References: Griffin W.L., Belousova E.A., Shee S.R., Pearson N.J., O’Reilly S.Y., 2004. Archean crustal evolution in the northern Yilgarn Craton: U-Pb and Hf-isotope evidence from detrital zircons. Precam. Res., 131, 231-282. Jahn B,M,, Capdevila R,, Liu D,Y,, Vernon A,, Badarch G, 2004. Sources of Phanerozoic granitoids in the transect Bayanhongor-Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia: geochemical and Nd isotopic evidence, and implications for Phanerozoic crustal growth. Journal of Asian Earth Sciences, 23, 629-653. Long X.P., Sun M., Yuan C., Xiao W.J., Lin S.F., Wu F.Y., Xia X.P., Cai K.D., 2007. U–Pb and Hf isotopic study of zircons from metasedimentary rocks in the Chinese Altai: Implications for Early Paleozoic tectonic evolution. Tectonics 26, doi: 10.1029/2007TC002128. Sun M., Yuan C., Xiao W., Long X., Xia X., Zhao G., Lin S., Wu F., Kröner A., 2008. Zircon U–Pb and Hf isotopic study of gneissic rocks from the Chinese Altai: progressive accretionary history in the early to middle Paleozoic. Chemical Geology, 247, 352-383. Wang T., Hong D.W., Jahn B.M., Tong Y., Wang Y.B., Han B.F., Wang X.X., 2006. Tining, petrogenesis, and setting of Paleozoic synorogenic intrusions form the Altai Mountains, Northwest China: implications for the tectonic evolution of an accretionary orogen. Journal of Geology, 114, 735-751. Wang T., Tong Y., Jahn B.M., Zou T.R., Wang Y.B., Hong D.W., Han B.F., 2008. SHRIMP U–Pb Zircon geochronology of the Altai No. 3 Pegmatite, NW China, and its implications for the origin and tectonic setting of the pegmatite. Ore Geology Reviews, Volume 32, Issues 1-2, 325-336 Xia X.P., Sun M., Zhao GC, Zhou MF., 2004. Spot U-Pb isotope analysis by ICP-MS coupled with a frequency quintupled (213 nm) Nd-YAG Laser system, Geochemical Journal, v. 38, 191-200. Xia X. P., Sun M., Zhao G., Wu F., Xu P., Zhang J., Luo Y. 2006. U-Pb and Hf isotopic study of detrital zircons from the Wulashan khondalites: Constraints on the evolution of the Ordos Terrane, Western Block of the North China Craton. Earth and Planetary Science Letters, 241,581-593. Yuan C., Sun M., Xiao W.J., Li X.H., Chen H.L., Lin S.F., Xia X.P., Long X.P., 2007. Accretionary orogenesis of the Chinese Altai: Insights from Paleozoic granitoids, Chemical Geology 242, 22–39. |
| Project Title: | 2009 GSA Annual Meeting U-Pb and Hf isotopic study of zircons from gneissic rocks from the Chinese Altai: implications for Paleozoic ridge subduction? |
| Investigator(s): | Sun M |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | URC/CRCG - Conference Grants for Teaching Staff |
| Start Date: | 10/2009 |
| Completion Date: | 10/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| N/A |
| Project Title: | Zircon age and Hf isotopic characteristics for the Palaeozoic granitoids in the Chinese and Mongolian Altai: addition of juvenile materials into the lithosphere and tectonic significance |
| Investigator(s): | Sun M, Xia X |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Germany/Hong Kong Joint Research Scheme |
| Start Date: | 01/2010 |
| Abstract: |
| Refer to hard copy |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Cai K., Sun M., Yuan C., Zhao G., Xiao W., Long X. and Wu F., Zircon U-Pb and Hf isotopic study of granitoids from the Chinese Altai: implications for continuous magmatic activity, crust nature and tectonic scenario in the early to middle Paleozoic, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 289. |
| Chen N., Gong S., Sun M., Li X., Xia X., Wang Q., Wu F. and Xu P., Precambrian evolution of the Quanji Block, northeastern margin of Tibet: Insights from zircon U–Pb and Lu–Hf isotope compositions, Journal of Asian Earth Sciences. 2009, 35: 367-376. |
| Geng H., Sun M., Yuan C., Xiao W., Xian W.S., Zhao G. and Wong P.W., Geochemical, Sr-Nd and U-Pb-Hf isotopic studies of Late Carboniferous magmatism in the West Junggar, Xinjiang: implications for ridge subduction, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 297. |
| Han C.M., Xiao W., Zhao G., Sun M., Qu W.J. and Du A.D., A Re-Os study of molybdenites from the Lanjiagou Mo deposit in the eastern part of the North China Craton and its geological significance, Gondwana Research. 2009, 16: 264-271. |
| He Y., Zhao G., Sun M. and Han Y.G., Petrogenesis and tectonic setting of volcanic rocks in the Xiaoshan and Waifangshan areas along the southern margin of the North China Craton: constraints from bulk-rock geochemistry and Sr-Nd isotopic composition, Lithos. 2010, 114: 186-199. |
| Jiang Y., Sun M., Zhao G. and Yuan C., Determination of 90 Ma high-temperature metamorphism in Chinese Altai, Xinjiang, China: Geological implications, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 447. |
| Li L., Sun M., Wang Y., Xing G.F., Lin S., Zhao G., Xia X., Wong P.M. and Zhang F.F., Zircon U-Pb and Hf isotopic study for the migmatised amphibolites in the Cathaysia Block: implications for the granulite facies metamorphism of Caledonian event in Southeast China, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 252. |
| Liu C., Zhao G. and Sun M., U-Pb and Hf study on detrital zircons from the Hutuo Group of the Wutai Complex: constraints on the timing of collision between the Eastern and Western Blocks in the North China Craton, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 256. |
| Long X., Yuan C., Sun M., Xiao W., Zhao G., Wang Y.J., Cai K., Xia X. and Xie L.W., Detrital zircon ages and Hf isotopes of the early Paleozoic flysch sequence in the Chinese Altai, NW China: New constrains on depositional age, provenance and tectonic evolution, Tectonophysics. 2010, 480: 213-231. |
| Long X., Yuan C., Sun M., Xiao W., Zhao G., Zhou K.F., Wang Y.J. and Hu A.Q., Petrological record of 2.65 Ga rocks in the Kuluketage area, North Tarim, 3th Symposium on Structural Geology and Geodynamics. Guangzhou, Abstracts. 2010, p. 154. |
| Wong P.W., Sun M., Zhao G., Yuan C. and Xiao W.J., Geochemical and georonological studies of the Alegedayi ophiolitic complexand its implication for the evolution of the Chinese Altai. , Gondwana Research. 2009, 18: 438-454. |
| Xiao W.J., Windley B.F., Han C.M., Yuan C., Chen H.L., Sun M., Sun S. and Li J.L., End-Permian to Triassic termination of the accretionary process in southern Altaids: implications for the geodynamic evolution, the Phanerozoic continental growth, and metallogeny of Central Asia. , International Journal of Earth Sciences. 2010, 98: 1189-1217. |
| Yin C., Zhao G., Sun M., Xia X., Wei C.J. and Leung W.H., LA-ICP-MS U-Pb zircon ages of the Qianlishan Complex: constrains on the evolution of the Khondalite Belt in the Western Block of the North China Craton, Precambrian Research. 2009, 174: 78-94. |
| Yin C., Zhao G., Wei C.J. and Sun M., Metamorphic Evolution of the Khondalite Belt in the Westren Block, North China Craton, Granulites & Granulite 2009 - Granulites, partial melting and rheology of orogenic lower crust. Prague. 2009. |
| Yin J.Y., Yuan C., Sun M., Long X., Zhao G., Wong K.P., Geng H.Y. and Cai K., Late Carboniferous high-Mg dioritic dikes in Western Junggar, NW China: Geochemical features, petrogenesis and tectonic implications, Gondwana Research. 2010, 17: 145-152. |
| Yuan C., Sun M., Xiao W., Long X., Zhao G. and Cai K., Late Paleozoic magmatism in the Balikun area, eastern Tianshan: caused by mantle plume, ridge subduction or slab break off?, 3th Symposium on Structural Geology and Geodynamics. Guangzhou, Abstracts. 2010, p. 294. |
| Yuan C., Zhou M.F., Sun M., Zhao Y.J., Wilde S., Long X.P. and Yan D.P., Triassic granitoids in the eastern Songpan Ganzi Fold Belt, SW China: Magmatic response to geodynamics of the deep lithosphere. , Earth and Planetary Science Letters . 2010, 290,: 481–492. |
| Zhang H.F., Zhou M.F., Sun M. and Zhou X.H., The origin of Mengyin and Fuxian diamondiferous kimberlites from the North China Craton: Implication for Palaeozoic subducted oceanic slab–mantle interaction. , Journal of Asian Earth Sciences . 2010, 37: 425-437. |
| Zhao G., Wilde S.A., Guo J., Cawood P.A., Sun M. and Li X., Single zircon grains record two continental collisional events in the North China craton, Precambrian Research. 2010, 177: 266-276. |
| Zhao G., He Y. and Sun M., The Xiong'er volcanic belt at the southern margin of the North China Craton: Petrographic and geochemical evidence for its outboard position in the Paleo-Mesoproterozoic Columbia Supercontinent, Gondwana Research. 2009, 16: 170-181. |
| Zhao X., Zhou M.F., Li J., Sun M., Gao J., Sun W. and Yang J.H., Late Paleoproterozoic to early Mesoproterozoic Dongchuan Group in Yunnan, SW China: Implications for tectonic evolution of the Yangtze Block: Precambrian Research, Precambrian Research. 2010, 182: 57-69. |
| Researcher : Sun W |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Sun W., Zhou M.F., Gao J., Yang S., Zhao X. and Zhao J., Detrital zircon U-Pb geochronological and Lu-Hf isotopic constraints on the Precambrian magmatic and crustal evolution of the western Yangtze Block, SW China, Precambrian Research. 2009, 172(1-2): 99-126. |
| Zhao X., Zhou M.F., Li J., Sun M., Gao J., Sun W. and Yang J.H., Late Paleoproterozoic to early Mesoproterozoic Dongchuan Group in Yunnan, SW China: Implications for tectonic evolution of the Yangtze Block: Precambrian Research, Precambrian Research. 2010, 182: 57-69. |
| Researcher : Sun W |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Sun W., Zhou M.F., Gao J., Yang S., Zhao X. and Zhao J., Detrital zircon U-Pb geochronological and Lu-Hf isotopic constraints on the Precambrian magmatic and crustal evolution of the western Yangtze Block, SW China, Precambrian Research. 2009, 172(1-2): 99-126. |
| Zhao X., Zhou M.F., Li J., Sun M., Gao J., Sun W. and Yang J.H., Late Paleoproterozoic to early Mesoproterozoic Dongchuan Group in Yunnan, SW China: Implications for tectonic evolution of the Yangtze Block: Precambrian Research, Precambrian Research. 2010, 182: 57-69. |
| Researcher : Switzer AD |
| Project Title: | Documentary and geological records of catastrophic marine inundations caused by large storms and tsunami on the coast of Taiwan and southeast China. |
| Investigator(s): | Switzer AD |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 10/2008 |
| Completion Date: | 08/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| 1) Assess the documentary and geological records of catastrophic marine inundations on the coasts of Taiwan and southeast China, two of the most densely populated and developing regions of the world. 2) Develop a dataset of catastrophic marine inundation events using geological records combined with the long and detailed written history of the region to assist in regional planning and future coastal development. 3) Cross-check regional historical records against each other to attempt to remove errors and misinterpretations, thus refining early work and ensuring a more robust dataset. 4) Add substantial insight to our understanding of the difference between storm and tsunami deposits using comparative sedimentological studies of events of both type using a regional approach. 5) Provide the first detailed study of the historical and geological record of the 1781/1782 Taiwan Strait tsunami event, the second largest in history in terms of death toll (40,000). |
| Project Title: | Imbricated and non-imbricated mega clasts from Green Island (Lu Tao), southeast Taiwan: implications for washover studies |
| Investigator(s): | Switzer AD |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 04/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| Purpose The study of boulders and large clasts on rocky shorelines only received minor early focus in the 1960's and 70's although a few key studies can be found from some high energy coasts. The field of boulder deposits has started to receive detailed investigation in the past 10 or so years partially as a result of recent interest in palaeostorms (tempestology) and palaeotsunami. Often mega clasts (coarse boulders and blocks) and gravels are the most easily identified indicators of high energy events and may provide the only record of high-energy processes preserved on a rocky shoreline. Mega-clasts are often presented as evidence for high-magnitude, low-frequency events such as tsunami and storm/cyclone waves. Often deposits exhibit imbrication or show other evidence suggesting landward movement of the clasts by waves and it is assumed that waves have been involved in there transportation and deposition. It is considered rare for imbrication to form without the influence of hydrodynamic forces and in most cases (including Green Island) cliff collapse or rock fall can be discounted. Nevertheless assigning a specific wave process to deposits of unknown origin is often very difficult. Boulder fields attributed to waves can be found in many landscapes on rocky shorelines, coral reefs, elevated platforms and cliff tops. For the most part extreme waves are generally thought to have dislodged boulders from rock platforms before they are transported. Considerable wave energy is required to quarry and lift clasts to a position where they can be transported landward by shoreward flows. The study of the quarrying process, transport mechanisms and flow dynamics involved in the generation mega clasts is limited because there are few published reports of boulders, reef clasts and blocks that has been conducted on coasts affected by both storms and tsunami. This project will fill this knowledge gap and test the hypothesis that repeated wave events can result in imbricated piles of boulders and large megaclasts. Key issues The research will be directly applicable to the ongoing global debate about the genesis of imbricated clasts on rocky shorelines and the transport of large megaclasts by large storm waves during typhoons. This project will also provide the first investigation of geological records of storms and tsunami from southeast Taiwan a region that has experienced both event types in the past. This project may also shed light on the impact of the 1781/1782 tsunami that is reported to have killed 40000 people in Taiwan and southeast China. Problems to be addressed The project will investigate the origins of large imbricated (regularly arranged clasts with overlapping edges like roof tiles) and non-imbricated megaclasts (large boulders) that are found on the shoreline of Green Island. Globally, the study of megaclasts suffers from a general lack of studies from coasts affected by both storms and tsunami. This project will investigate the genesis and age structure of imbricated and non-imbricated clasts from the southeast coast of Green Island, a site that has historically experienced tsunami and also experiences large waves from seasonal typhoons. In particular this study aims to test the hypothesis that the imbricated clasts are the result of stacking by repeated events and are not the result of a single event. The findings of this project will be particularly relevant to global tsunami studies as imbricated clasts of shorelines has been identified as an indicator of previous tsunami events. |
| Researcher : Wang Y |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Li L., Sun M., Wang Y., Xing G.F., Lin S., Zhao G., Xia X., Wong P.M. and Zhang F.F., Zircon U-Pb and Hf isotopic study for the migmatised amphibolites in the Cathaysia Block: implications for the granulite facies metamorphism of Caledonian event in Southeast China, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 252. |
| Li S.Z., Zhao G., Zhang G.W., Liu X.C., Wang Y., Liu X., Suo Y.H., Dai L.M., Jin C. and Liu L.P., Not all folds and thrusts in the Yangtze foreland thrust belt are related to the Dabie orogen., 3th Symposium on Structural Geology and Geodynamics. Guangzhou, Abstracts. 2010, p. 115. |
| Li S.Z., Kusky T.M., Liu X., Zhang G.W., Zhao G., Wang L. and Wang Y., Two-stage collision-related extrusion of the western Dabie HP-UHP metamorphic terranes, central China: Evidence from quartz c-axis fabrics and structures, Gondwana Research. 2009, 16: 294-309. |
| Wang Y., Zhao G., Xia X., Zhang Y., Fan W., Li C., Bi X. and Li S., Early Mesozoic unroofing pattern of the Dabie Mountains (China): Constraints from the U-Pb detrital zircon geochronology and Si-in-white mica analysis of synorogenic sediments in the Jianghan Basin, Chemical Geology. 2009, 266: 231-241. |
| Wang Y., Zhang Y.Z., Zhao G., Fan W.M., Xia X., Zhang F.F. and Zhang A.M., Zircon U-Pb geochronological and geochemical constraints on the petrogenesis of the Taishan sanukitoids (Shandong): Implications for Neoarchean subduction in the Eastern Block, North China Craton, Precambrian Research. 2009, 174: 273-286. |
| Zhou J., Wilde S.A., Zhang X.Z., Zhao G., Zheng C.Q., Wang Y. and Zhang X.H., The onset of Pacific margin accretion in NE China: Evidence from the Heilongjiang high-pressure metamorphic belt , Tectonophysics. 2009, 478: 230-246. |
| Zhou J., Wilde S.A., Zhang X.Z., Zhao G., Zheng C.Q., Wang Y. and Zhang X.H., The onset of Pacific margin accretion in NE China: evidence from the Heilongjiang high-pressure metamorphic belt., 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p.98. |
| Researcher : Wilde SA |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Zhao G., Wilde S.A. and Zhang J., New evidence from seismic imaging for subduction during assembly of the North China craton: Comment, Geology. 2010, 38: e206. |
| Zhao G., Wilde S.A., Guo J., Cawood P.A., Sun M. and Li X., Single zircon grains record two continental collisional events in the North China craton, Precambrian Research. 2010, 177: 266-276. |
| Zhou J., Wilde S.A., Zhao G., Zhang X.Z. and Zheng C.Q., Pan-African metamorphic and magmatic rocks in the Khanka Massif, the boundary between NE China and Far East of Russia: evidence and global implications, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 286. |
| Zhou J., Wilde S.A., Zhang X.Z., Zhao G., Zheng C.Q., Wang Y. and Zhang X.H., The onset of Pacific margin accretion in NE China: Evidence from the Heilongjiang high-pressure metamorphic belt , Tectonophysics. 2009, 478: 230-246. |
| Zhou J., Wilde S.A., Zhang X.Z., Zhao G., Zheng C.Q., Wang Y. and Zhang X.H., The onset of Pacific margin accretion in NE China: evidence from the Heilongjiang high-pressure metamorphic belt., 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p.98. |
| Researcher : Wong PM |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Li L., Sun M., Wang Y., Xing G.F., Lin S., Zhao G., Xia X., Wong P.M. and Zhang F.F., Zircon U-Pb and Hf isotopic study for the migmatised amphibolites in the Cathaysia Block: implications for the granulite facies metamorphism of Caledonian event in Southeast China, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 252. |
| Researcher : Wong PW |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Geng H., Sun M., Yuan C., Xiao W., Xian W.S., Zhao G. and Wong P.W., Geochemical, Sr-Nd and U-Pb-Hf isotopic studies of Late Carboniferous magmatism in the West Junggar, Xinjiang: implications for ridge subduction, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 297. |
| Wong P.W., Sun M., Zhao G., Yuan C. and Xiao W.J., Geochemical and georonological studies of the Alegedayi ophiolitic complexand its implication for the evolution of the Chinese Altai. , Gondwana Research. 2009, 18: 438-454. |
| Researcher : Wu F |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Cai K., Sun M., Yuan C., Zhao G., Xiao W., Long X. and Wu F., Zircon U-Pb and Hf isotopic study of granitoids from the Chinese Altai: implications for continuous magmatic activity, crust nature and tectonic scenario in the early to middle Paleozoic, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 289. |
| Researcher : Xia X |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Chen N., Gong S., Sun M., Li X., Xia X., Wang Q., Wu F. and Xu P., Precambrian evolution of the Quanji Block, northeastern margin of Tibet: Insights from zircon U–Pb and Lu–Hf isotope compositions, Journal of Asian Earth Sciences. 2009, 35: 367-376. |
| Li L., Sun M., Wang Y., Xing G.F., Lin S., Zhao G., Xia X., Wong P.M. and Zhang F.F., Zircon U-Pb and Hf isotopic study for the migmatised amphibolites in the Cathaysia Block: implications for the granulite facies metamorphism of Caledonian event in Southeast China, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 252. |
| Long X., Yuan C., Sun M., Xiao W., Zhao G., Wang Y.J., Cai K., Xia X. and Xie L.W., Detrital zircon ages and Hf isotopes of the early Paleozoic flysch sequence in the Chinese Altai, NW China: New constrains on depositional age, provenance and tectonic evolution, Tectonophysics. 2010, 480: 213-231. |
| Wang Y., Zhao G., Xia X., Zhang Y., Fan W., Li C., Bi X. and Li S., Early Mesozoic unroofing pattern of the Dabie Mountains (China): Constraints from the U-Pb detrital zircon geochronology and Si-in-white mica analysis of synorogenic sediments in the Jianghan Basin, Chemical Geology. 2009, 266: 231-241. |
| Wang Y., Zhang Y.Z., Zhao G., Fan W.M., Xia X., Zhang F.F. and Zhang A.M., Zircon U-Pb geochronological and geochemical constraints on the petrogenesis of the Taishan sanukitoids (Shandong): Implications for Neoarchean subduction in the Eastern Block, North China Craton, Precambrian Research. 2009, 174: 273-286. |
| Yin C., Zhao G., Sun M., Xia X., Wei C.J. and Leung W.H., LA-ICP-MS U-Pb zircon ages of the Qianlishan Complex: constrains on the evolution of the Khondalite Belt in the Western Block of the North China Craton, Precambrian Research. 2009, 174: 78-94. |
| Zhao G., Li S.Z., Zhang J. and Xia X., A comment on Tectonic evolution of the Hengshan-Wutai-Fuping complexes and its implication for the Trans-North China Orogen, Precambrian Research. 2010, 176: 94-98. |
| Researcher : Xiao W |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Cai K., Sun M., Yuan C., Zhao G., Xiao W., Long X. and Wu F., Zircon U-Pb and Hf isotopic study of granitoids from the Chinese Altai: implications for continuous magmatic activity, crust nature and tectonic scenario in the early to middle Paleozoic, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 289. |
| Geng H., Sun M., Yuan C., Xiao W., Xian W.S., Zhao G. and Wong P.W., Geochemical, Sr-Nd and U-Pb-Hf isotopic studies of Late Carboniferous magmatism in the West Junggar, Xinjiang: implications for ridge subduction, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 297. |
| Han C.M., Xiao W., Zhao G., Sun M., Qu W.J. and Du A.D., A Re-Os study of molybdenites from the Lanjiagou Mo deposit in the eastern part of the North China Craton and its geological significance, Gondwana Research. 2009, 16: 264-271. |
| Long X., Yuan C., Sun M., Xiao W., Zhao G., Wang Y.J., Cai K., Xia X. and Xie L.W., Detrital zircon ages and Hf isotopes of the early Paleozoic flysch sequence in the Chinese Altai, NW China: New constrains on depositional age, provenance and tectonic evolution, Tectonophysics. 2010, 480: 213-231. |
| Long X., Yuan C., Sun M., Xiao W., Zhao G., Zhou K.F., Wang Y.J. and Hu A.Q., Petrological record of 2.65 Ga rocks in the Kuluketage area, North Tarim, 3th Symposium on Structural Geology and Geodynamics. Guangzhou, Abstracts. 2010, p. 154. |
| Yuan C., Sun M., Xiao W., Long X., Zhao G. and Cai K., Late Paleozoic magmatism in the Balikun area, eastern Tianshan: caused by mantle plume, ridge subduction or slab break off?, 3th Symposium on Structural Geology and Geodynamics. Guangzhou, Abstracts. 2010, p. 294. |
| Researcher : Xu J |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Shi R., Griffin W.L., O‘Reilly S.Y., Zhao G., Huang Q.S., Li J. and Xu J., Genesis of the Lüliangshan garnet-peridotites in the North Qaidam UHP belt, Northern Tibetan Plateau: Constraints from Re-Os isotopes, Lithos. 2010, 117: 307-321. |
| Researcher : Yang S |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Sun W., Zhou M.F., Gao J., Yang S., Zhao X. and Zhao J., Detrital zircon U-Pb geochronological and Lu-Hf isotopic constraints on the Precambrian magmatic and crustal evolution of the western Yangtze Block, SW China, Precambrian Research. 2009, 172(1-2): 99-126. |
| Researcher : Yim WWS |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Yu F., Zong Y., Lloyd J.M., Huang G., Leng M.J., Kendrick C., Lamb A.L. and Yim W.W.S., Bulk organic d13C and C/N as indicators for sediment sources in the Pearl River delta and estuary, southern China, Estuarne, Coastal and Shelf Science. 2010, 87: 618-630. |
| Zong Y., Kemp A.C., Yu F., Lloyd J.M., Huang G. and Yim W.W.S., Diatoms from the Pearl River estuary, China and their suitability as water salinity indicators for coastal environments, Marine Micropaeontology. 2010, 75: 38-49. |
| Researcher : Yin C |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Yin C., Zhao G., Sun M., Xia X., Wei C.J. and Leung W.H., LA-ICP-MS U-Pb zircon ages of the Qianlishan Complex: constrains on the evolution of the Khondalite Belt in the Western Block of the North China Craton, Precambrian Research. 2009, 174: 78-94. |
| Yin C., Zhao G., Wei C.J. and Sun M., Metamorphic Evolution of the Khondalite Belt in the Westren Block, North China Craton, Granulites & Granulite 2009 - Granulites, partial melting and rheology of orogenic lower crust. Prague. 2009. |
| Researcher : Yuan C |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Cai K., Sun M., Yuan C., Zhao G., Xiao W., Long X. and Wu F., Zircon U-Pb and Hf isotopic study of granitoids from the Chinese Altai: implications for continuous magmatic activity, crust nature and tectonic scenario in the early to middle Paleozoic, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 289. |
| Geng H., Sun M., Yuan C., Xiao W., Xian W.S., Zhao G. and Wong P.W., Geochemical, Sr-Nd and U-Pb-Hf isotopic studies of Late Carboniferous magmatism in the West Junggar, Xinjiang: implications for ridge subduction, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 297. |
| Jiang Y., Sun M., Zhao G. and Yuan C., Determination of 90 Ma high-temperature metamorphism in Chinese Altai, Xinjiang, China: Geological implications, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 447. |
| Long X., Yuan C., Sun M., Xiao W., Zhao G., Wang Y.J., Cai K., Xia X. and Xie L.W., Detrital zircon ages and Hf isotopes of the early Paleozoic flysch sequence in the Chinese Altai, NW China: New constrains on depositional age, provenance and tectonic evolution, Tectonophysics. 2010, 480: 213-231. |
| Long X., Yuan C., Sun M., Xiao W., Zhao G., Zhou K.F., Wang Y.J. and Hu A.Q., Petrological record of 2.65 Ga rocks in the Kuluketage area, North Tarim, 3th Symposium on Structural Geology and Geodynamics. Guangzhou, Abstracts. 2010, p. 154. |
| Wong P.W., Sun M., Zhao G., Yuan C. and Xiao W.J., Geochemical and georonological studies of the Alegedayi ophiolitic complexand its implication for the evolution of the Chinese Altai. , Gondwana Research. 2009, 18: 438-454. |
| Xiao W.J., Windley B.F., Han C.M., Yuan C., Chen H.L., Sun M., Sun S. and Li J.L., End-Permian to Triassic termination of the accretionary process in southern Altaids: implications for the geodynamic evolution, the Phanerozoic continental growth, and metallogeny of Central Asia. , International Journal of Earth Sciences. 2010, 98: 1189-1217. |
| Yin J.Y., Yuan C., Sun M., Long X., Zhao G., Wong K.P., Geng H.Y. and Cai K., Late Carboniferous high-Mg dioritic dikes in Western Junggar, NW China: Geochemical features, petrogenesis and tectonic implications, Gondwana Research. 2010, 17: 145-152. |
| Yuan C., Sun M., Xiao W., Long X., Zhao G. and Cai K., Late Paleozoic magmatism in the Balikun area, eastern Tianshan: caused by mantle plume, ridge subduction or slab break off?, 3th Symposium on Structural Geology and Geodynamics. Guangzhou, Abstracts. 2010, p. 294. |
| Researcher : Zhang J |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Zhao G., Li S.Z., Zhang J. and Xia X., A comment on Tectonic evolution of the Hengshan-Wutai-Fuping complexes and its implication for the Trans-North China Orogen, Precambrian Research. 2010, 176: 94-98. |
| Zhao G., Wilde S.A. and Zhang J., New evidence from seismic imaging for subduction during assembly of the North China craton: Comment, Geology. 2010, 38: e206. |
| Researcher : Zhao G |
| Project Title: | Precambrian Geology and Metamorphic Geology |
| Investigator(s): | Zhao G |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Matching Fund for NSFC Young Researcher Award |
| Start Date: | 01/2005 |
| Abstract: |
| to study precambrian geology and metamorphic geology |
| Project Title: | Ages and tectonic setting of the Southern Margin Volcanic Belt of the North China Craton: constraints on the reconstruction of a Paleo-Mesoproterozoic supercontinent |
| Investigator(s): | Zhao G, Sun M |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 12/2006 |
| Completion Date: | 12/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| (1) The main objective of this project is to determine the timing and tectonic setting of the Southern Margin Volcanic Belt of the North China Craton. There is a hot debate on the age and tectonic setting of this volcanic belt. Some workers propose that the belt formed as an intracontinental rift (Sun et al., 1981; Zhang, 1989; Yang, 1990), whereas others argue that it represents a long-lived, subduction-related, continental margin accretionary belt (Jia, 1985; Chen, 1992). This controversy results from the lack of reliable isotopic, structural and geochemical data for the Southern Margin Volcanic Belt. This project aims to apply an integrated multidisciplinary approach, including field, structural, geochemical and geochronological studies, to resolve this controversial geological issue. (2) We will meet the above objective by: 1) investigating the geological occurrence and distribution of volcanic rocks and associated intrusions in the Southern Margin Volcanic Belt; 2) carrying out field- and laboratory-based structural analysis of the belt in order to work out whether the major structural phase is extensional or compressional, which is critical in discriminating rifting from continental margin arc settings; 3) undertaking detailed petrographic examination of representative thin sections in order to characterize the mineral assemblages and fabrics of these igneous rocks; 4) constraining tectonic settings of the belt by using rock associations and geochemical fingerprints; and (5) dating the eruption and emplacement time of the volcanic rocks and associated intrusions of the belt by utilizing the SHRIMP U–Pb zircon geochronology. (3) The results of this project will not only allow us to work out when and how the Southern Margin Volcanic Belt formed, but will also place a first-order constraint on the configuration of the North China Craton in the proposed Paleo-Mesoproterozoic Columbia (Nuna) supercontinent (Rogers and Santosh, 2002, Zhao et al., 2002, 2004; Pesonen et al., 2003). If the Southern Margin Volcanic Belt represents a Paleo-Mesoproterozoic rift belt, it implies that the southern margin of the North China Craton must have been connected to another continental fragment in the Columbia (Nuna) supercontinent. In contrast, if the belt was a Paleo-Mesoproterozoic, subduction-related, continental margin accretionary belt, it suggests that the southern margin of the North China Craton must have faced an open ocean, not been connected to any other continental blocks in the Columbia (Nuna) supercontinent. The outcomes of this project thus have a long-term impact on a major geological issue related to the reconstruction of the recently proposed Paleo-Mesoproterozoic Columbia (Nuna) supercontinent. (References see pages 5-1 and 5-2). |
| Project Title: | Processes of Continental Dynamics and Mineralization of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt |
| Investigator(s): | Zhao G |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Matching Fund for National Key Basic Research Development Scheme (973 Projects) |
| Start Date: | 01/2008 |
| Abstract: |
| Processes of Continental Dynamics and Evolution of Mineralization Systems of the Cantral Asian Mineralization Regime |
| Project Title: | Polymetamorphic and geochronologic study of the Jining Complex, North China Craton |
| Investigator(s): | Zhao G |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 01/2008 |
| Abstract: |
| Investigating the geological occurrence and spatial distribution of major lithologic units in the granulite-facies Jining Complex, especially of pelitic and mafic granulites that most probably preserve textural evidence for polymetamorphism and have mineral assemblages suitable for estimating P-T conditions; Carrying out field-based structural investigations on the complex in order to work out the polyphase deformational history of the complex, and especially tracing the movement sense of the deformation, which is critical in determining whether an earlier collisional event forming east-west-trending structures in the Kondalite Belt were reworked by a later collisional event that formed north-south-trending structures in the Trans-North China Orogen; Undertaking detailed petrographic studies to determine whether the Jining Complex underwent two discrete metamorphic events; a key to identify two metamorphic events is to determine whether the peak assemblage of the second metamorphic event developed from a retrogressive mineral assemblage forming at the cooling stage of the first metamorphic event; Using the electron microprobe to analyze chemical compositions of major metamorphic minerals in each assemblage, and carrying out thermobarometric work to determine P–T conditions of mineral assemblages and P–T paths of metamorphic event(s) using THERMOCALC and/or TWQ; Utilizing cathodoluminescence (CL) and back-scattered electron (BSE) images to distinguish metamorphic zircons from magmatic or detrital zircons, and in particular, to determine whether there are two generations of metamorphic zircons in the granulite-facies rocks of the Jining Complex; and applying the SHRIMP U–Pb zircon dating technique to determination of the precise ages of metamorphic event(s) in the Jining Complex. |
| Project Title: | Structures and metamorphic age of the Taihua Complex in the southern segement of the Trans-North China Orogen |
| Investigator(s): | Zhao G |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 03/2008 |
| Completion Date: | 02/2010 |
| Abstract: |
| In the last decade, a major advancement in understanding the history of the North China Craton, one of the oldest cratonic blocks in the world and containing rocks as old as 3.85 billion years, has been made following recognition of the Trans-North China Orogen in the central part of the craton (Zhao et al., 1998, 2007). There is now a broad consensus that the Trans-North China Orogen represents a continent-continent collisional belt along which the Eastern and Western blocks were amalgamated to form the basement of the North China Craton (Zhao et al., 2001a, 2005; Wilde et al., 2002; Kusky and Li, 2003; Kröner et al., 2005a, 2005b, 2006; Polat et al., 2005; Faure et al., 2006; Trap et al., 2007; Zhang et al., 2007). However, controversies have surrounded the timing and tectonic processes involved in the amalgamation of the two blocks. One school of thought proposes that during late Archean to Paleoproterozoic time, the Eastern and Western Blocks were two discrete continental blocks separated by an open ocean with the oceanic lithosphere subducting eastwards, forming a magmatic arc along the western margin of the Eastern Block, and at ~1.85 Ga, the subduction was completed and the two blocks collided to form the coherent basement of the North China Craton (Zhao et al., 2000, 2001; Zhao, 2001; Wilde et al., 2002; Kroner et al., 2005a, 2006b, 2006; Zhang et al., 2007). In contrast, another school of thought proposes that the subduction was eastward-directed and the final collision between the two blocks occurred at ~2.5 Ga (Li et al., 2000; Kusky and Li, 2003, 2007; Li and Kusky, 20087; Polat et al., 2005, 2006). Most recently, Faure et al. (2007) and Trap et al. (2007) proposed the third model that suggests a westwards subduction with the final collision at 1.9-1.8 Ga. The uncertainty as to which model is correct results from the lack of reliable geological data for the Trans-North China Orogen, especially for the metamorphic complexes in the southern segments of the orogen where few geological data have been produced. This project aims to constrain these controversies by undertaking field-based structural investigations followed by metamorphic age studies on the major lithologic units of the Taihua Complex in the southernmost part of the Trans-North China Orogen. Specifically, the objectives of this project are: (1) to investigate the geological occurrences and spatial distribution of major lithologies in the Taihua Complex; (2) to determine major structural phases of the Taihua Complex by studying overprinting relations of various structural elements including folds, foliations, lineations, etc; (3) to determine movement senses of the major thrusting and shearing through detailed structural analysis, especially those of the early deformational episodes which are critical in determining the direction (westward- or eastward) of the subduction; and (4) to utilize the SHRIMP and mineral 40Ar-39Ar techniques to date the ages of major metamorphic/structural events in order to determine the timing of the collisional event that occurred in the Trans-North China Orogen. |
| Project Title: | Single zircon grains record two continent-continent collisional events in the Huaian Complex, North China Craton |
| Investigator(s): | Zhao G |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 01/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| A recent proposed model for the tectonic evolution of the North China Craton envisages two Paleoproterozoic continent-continent collisional events (Zhao, 2001; Zhao et al., 2001, 2005; Wilde and Zhao, 2005; Kröner et al., 2005a, 2005b, 2006; Fuare et al., 2007; Zhang et al., 2007; Trap et al., 2007). The earlier one formed the west-east-trending Khondalite Belt along which the Yinshan Block in the north and the Ordos Block in the south amalgamated to form the Western Block at ~1.95 Ga (Zhao et al., 2005; Santosh et al., 2007), whereas the second one led to the formation of the north-south-trending Trans-North China Orogen along which the Western Block collided with the Eastern block to form the North China Craton at ~1.85 Ga (Zhao, 2001; Zhao et al., 2001, 2005; Wilde et al., 2002; Kröner et al., 2005a, 2005b, 2006). One of the rigorous tests on this model is to determine whether or not the Huai’an Complex, A granulite-facies terrain located at the conjunction of the Khondalite Belt and Trans-North China Orogen, underwent two tectonothermal events. Available petrographic data do show that the Huai’an Complex experienced two metamorphic events (Lu et al., 1992; Liu, 1995). Lu et al. (1992) observed that the retrogressive biotite surrounding the garnet porphyroblast of the first metamorphic event was replaced by fibrous sillimanite crystals that formed during the second metamorphic event, indicating a cooling process between the two metamorphic events. This implies that these metamorphic events may represent two independent tectonothermal events. However, it still remains unknown whether the two high-grade metamorphic events were recorded in zircons of the Huai’an Complex. Zircon has long been utilized to date the timing of high-grade metamorphic events because it can recrystallize or grow anew as single grains or overgrowth rims around igneous cores during metamorphism. Metamorphic zircons are generally structureless, highly luminescent and very low in Th/U ratios, which make them distinctly different from magmatic zircons that are generally characterized by oscillatory zoning, low luminescence and comparatively high Th/U ratios. Since most metamorphic zircons occur as narrow recrystallization or overgrowth rims surrounding igneous cores, their ages cannot be determined by the conventional multigrain/single-grain U–Pb zircon dating techniques. Recent developments in microanalysis, including secondary ion mass spectrometry and laser-abalation induced coupled plasma-mass spectrometry, combined with the detailed imaging of internal structures by cathodoluminescence (CL) or backscattered electrons (BSE), enable to precisely and accurately date metamorphic events on single zircon grains. In this proposed project, we will apply SHRIMP U–Pb zircon dating technique combined with U–Th chemistry and cathodoluminescence (CL) imaging to the high-grade pelitic gneisses of the Huai’an complex, and the results will place important constraints on the tectonic model for the Paleoproterozoic assembly of the North China craton.. Specifically, the objectives of this project are: (1) Investigating the geological occurrence and spatial distribution of major lithologic units in the granulite-facies Huai’an Complex; (2) Carrying out field-based structural investigations on the complex in order to work out the polyphase deformational history of the complex, and especially tracing the movement sense of the deformation, which is critical in determining whether an earlier collisional event forming east-west-trending structures in the Kondalite Belt were reworked by a later collisional event that formed north-south-trending structures in the Trans-North China Orogen; (3) Undertaking detailed petrographic studies to determine whether the Huai’an Complex underwent two discrete metamorphic events; a key to identify two metamorphic events is to determine whether the peak assemblage of the second metamorphic event developed from a retrogressive mineral assemblage forming at the cooling stage of the first metamorphic event; (4) Utilizing cathodoluminescence (CL) and back-scattered electron (BSE) images to distinguish metamorphic zircons from magmatic or detrital zircons, and in particular, to determine whether there are two generations of metamorphic zircons in the granulite-facies rocks of the Jining Complex; and applying the SHRIMP U–Pb zircon dating technique to determination of the precise ages of metamorphic event(s) in the Huai’an Complex. |
| Project Title: | Tectonic setting and evolution of the Paleoproterozoic Jiao-Liao-Ji Belt in the Eastern Block of the North China Craton. |
| Investigator(s): | Zhao G |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 01/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| 1) To ascertain the occurrence, spatial distribution and contact relationships of major lithotectonic units in the Jiao-Liao-Ji Belt, especially of granitoid and mafic plutons and volcanic rocks in southern Jilin and eastern Shandong Provinces, where large-scale geological mapping has not been carried out; 2) To carry out extensive field-based structural investigations on the Jiao-Liao-Ji Belt and determine the extensional or compressive nature of the major structural episodes through detailed structural analysis, especially on the early deformation episodes (D1 and D2) which are critical to determining if the belt formed under a rift (extensional) or a continent-arc-continent collisional (compressive) setting; 3) To undertake a study of metamorphic mineral assemblages, reaction relations, mineral compositions and thermobarometric P-T calculations of medium- to high-grade rocks from the Jiao-Liao-Ji Belt, in order to reconstruct their metamorphic P-T paths so that they can be related to the structural studies outlined above; 4) To probe the geochemical characteristics of representative litholoiges (granitoid and mafic plutons and volcanic rocks) in the Jiao-Liao-Ji Belt in order to investigate whether they have affinities to within-plate settings or island arc environments; 5) To utilize SHRIMP and LA-ICP-MS U–Pb zircon geochronology combined with the electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) monazite and mineral Ar/Ar dating techniques to determine the rock-forming and metamorphic ages of the litholoiges of the Jiao-Liao-Ji Belt and Archean basement rocks on either side of the belt; and 6) To reconstruct the tectonic setting and formation processes of the Jiao-Liao-Ji Belt, based on integrating the structural, metamorphic, geochemical and geochronological data obtained from this project. |
| Project Title: | U-Pb and Hf isotopic study of detrital zircons from the Yejishan Group of the Qinglong foreland basin in the North China Craton |
| Investigator(s): | Zhao G |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 03/2010 |
| Abstract: |
| Recent progress in understanding the basement architecture of the North China Craton has resulted in a broad consensus that the two discrete continental blocks, called the Eastern and Western Blocks, amalgamated along a central orogenic belt, called the Trans-North China Orogen (Fig. 1; Zhao et al., 2001, 2002, 2005; Wilde et al., 2002; Kroner et al., 2005; Kusky and Li, 2003; Li and Kusky, 2007; Polat et al., 2005; Trap et al., 2007; Zhang et al., 2007, 2009). However, there is a hot debate on the timing and tectonic processes involved in the collision of the two blocks. Some researchers have suggested eastward-directed subduction with the collision at ~1.85 Ga (Zhao et al., 2001; Wilde et al., 2002; Kroner et al., 2005; Zhang et al., 2009), whereas some other researchers have proposed westward-directed subduction with collision at ~2.5 Ga (Kusky and Li, 2003; Li and Kusky, 2007; Polat et al., 2005). The ~1.85 Ga collision model is mainly based on the following lines of evidence: (1) high-pressure granulites and retrograded ecologites in the Trans-North Chia Orogen are strongly deformed gabbroic dykes that were emplaced at ~1.92 Ga and experienced high-pressure metamorphism at ~1.85 Ga (Kroner et al., 2005); (2) ductilely deformed Paleoproterozoic granitoid gneisses in the orogen were emplaced between 2.36 Ga and 2.02 Ga, indicating that the main deformation in these areas is not Archean but Paleoproterozoic in age (Kroner et al., 2005); and (3) metamorphic zircons are present in both the Archean and Paleoproterozoic rocks of the orogen and yield consistent metamorphic ages of ~1.85 Ga (Kroner et al., 2005; Trap et al., 2007, Zhao et al., 2008a, 2008b; Zhang et al., 2009). In contrast, according to Kusky and Li (2003) and Li and Kusky (2007), the major evidence for the ~2.5 Ga collision between the Eastern and Western Blocks is the existence of the end-Archean (~2.5 Ga) Qinglong foreland basin, which extends N to NE up to 1600 km long along the eastern side of the Trans-North China Orogen. Li and Kusky (2007) divided this foreland basin into the northern, middle and southern sectors, of which the northern sector is represented by the Qinglong Group in the eastern Hebei area, the middle sector includes the Gaofan and Hutuo Groups in the Wutaishan area and the Wanzi Group in the Taihangshan area, and the southern sector is represented by the Songshan Group in the Songshan area. However, these authors did not carry out detailed dating work on detrital zircons from these groups, which can provide constraints on the maximum depositional age of these groups, and thus it still remains unknown whether or not these groups were deposited in the Qinglong foreland basin at ~2.5 Ga. Located in the central segment of the Trans-North China Orogen, the Yejishan Group in the Lüliang Complex, ~100 km southwest of the Wutaishan area, has sedimentary sequences remarkably similar to the Hutuo Group in the middle sector of the Qinglong foreland basin and thus is also considered to have deposited in a foreland basin (Bai et al., 1992). In this project, we will carry out detailed U-Pb and Hf studies on detrital zircons of the Yejishan Group in order to determine the maximum depositional age and source rocks of the foreland basin, which can provide a significant constraint on the timing of the collision between the Eastern and Western Blocks along the Trans-North China Orogen. Specifically, the objectives of this project are: (1) To Investigate the geological occurrence and spatial distribution of the Yejishan Group in the Lüliang Complex; (2) To carry out detailed sedimentary sequence and structural studies on the Yejishan Group and compare the sequences of the group with those of the Hutuo Group in the Wutai Complex in order to examine if the Yejishan Group, like the Hutuo Group, represents typical sedimentary sequences of a foreland basin; (3) To undertake detailed petrographic studies on the Yejishan Group in order to select suitable samples for further U-Pb and Hf isotopic study of detrital zircons; (4) To utilize cathodoluminescence (CL) and back-scattered electron (BSE) images to distinguish different types of detrital zircons of magmatic or metamorphic origins; and (5) To apply the LA-ICP-MS U–Pb zircon dating technique to determine the maximum depositional age and source rocks of the Yejishan Group. |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Cai K., Sun M., Yuan C., Zhao G., Xiao W., Long X. and Wu F., Zircon U-Pb and Hf isotopic study of granitoids from the Chinese Altai: implications for continuous magmatic activity, crust nature and tectonic scenario in the early to middle Paleozoic, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 289. |
| Dong X., Zhang Z.M., Wang J.L., Zhao G., Liu F., Wang W. and Yu F., Provenance and formation age of the Nyingchi Group in the southern Lhasa terrane, Tibetan Plateau: Petrology and Zircon U-Pb geochronology, Acta Petrologica Sinica. 2009, 25: 1678-1694. |
| Geng H., Sun M., Yuan C., Xiao W., Xian W.S., Zhao G. and Wong P.W., Geochemical, Sr-Nd and U-Pb-Hf isotopic studies of Late Carboniferous magmatism in the West Junggar, Xinjiang: implications for ridge subduction, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 297. |
| Han C.M., Xiao W., Zhao G., Sun M., Qu W.J. and Du A.D., A Re-Os study of molybdenites from the Lanjiagou Mo deposit in the eastern part of the North China Craton and its geological significance, Gondwana Research. 2009, 16: 264-271. |
| He Y., Zhao G., Sun M. and Han Y.G., Petrogenesis and tectonic setting of volcanic rocks in the Xiaoshan and Waifangshan areas along the southern margin of the North China Craton: constraints from bulk-rock geochemistry and Sr-Nd isotopic composition, Lithos. 2010, 114: 186-199. |
| Jiang Y., Sun M., Zhao G. and Yuan C., Determination of 90 Ma high-temperature metamorphism in Chinese Altai, Xinjiang, China: Geological implications, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 447. |
| Li L., Sun M., Wang Y., Xing G.F., Lin S., Zhao G., Xia X., Wong P.M. and Zhang F.F., Zircon U-Pb and Hf isotopic study for the migmatised amphibolites in the Cathaysia Block: implications for the granulite facies metamorphism of Caledonian event in Southeast China, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 252. |
| Li S.Z., Zhao G., Zhang G.W., Liu X.C., Wang Y., Liu X., Suo Y.H., Dai L.M., Jin C. and Liu L.P., Not all folds and thrusts in the Yangtze foreland thrust belt are related to the Dabie orogen., 3th Symposium on Structural Geology and Geodynamics. Guangzhou, Abstracts. 2010, p. 115. |
| Li S.Z., Liu X., Suo Y.H., Liu L.P., Qian C.C., Liu X.C., Zhang G.W. and Zhao G., Triassic folding and thrusting in the Eastern Block of the North China Craton and the Dabie-Sulu orogen and its geodynamic, Acta Petrologica Sinica. 2009, 25: 2031-2049. |
| Li S.Z., Kusky T.M., Liu X., Zhang G.W., Zhao G., Wang L. and Wang Y., Two-stage collision-related extrusion of the western Dabie HP-UHP metamorphic terranes, central China: Evidence from quartz c-axis fabrics and structures, Gondwana Research. 2009, 16: 294-309. |
| Li X., Guo J. and Zhao G., Metamorphism and geochronology of the Khondalite Series in the Jining area, North China Craton, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 449. |
| Liu C., Zhao G. and Sun M., U-Pb and Hf study on detrital zircons from the Hutuo Group of the Wutai Complex: constraints on the timing of collision between the Eastern and Western Blocks in the North China Craton, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 256. |
| Long X., Yuan C., Sun M., Xiao W., Zhao G., Wang Y.J., Cai K., Xia X. and Xie L.W., Detrital zircon ages and Hf isotopes of the early Paleozoic flysch sequence in the Chinese Altai, NW China: New constrains on depositional age, provenance and tectonic evolution, Tectonophysics. 2010, 480: 213-231. |
| Long X., Yuan C., Sun M., Xiao W., Zhao G., Zhou K.F., Wang Y.J. and Hu A.Q., Petrological record of 2.65 Ga rocks in the Kuluketage area, North Tarim, 3th Symposium on Structural Geology and Geodynamics. Guangzhou, Abstracts. 2010, p. 154. |
| McLoughlin N., Fliegel D.J., Furnes H., Staudigel A., Zhao G. and Robinson P.T., Assessing the Biogenicity and Syngenicity of Candidate Bioalteration Textures in Pillow Lavas of the .52 Ga Wutai Greenstone Terrane of China, Chinese Science Bulletin. 2010, 55: 188-199. |
| Shi R., Griffin W.L., O‘Reilly S.Y., Zhao G., Huang Q.S., Li J. and Xu J., Genesis of the Lüliangshan garnet-peridotites in the North Qaidam UHP belt, Northern Tibetan Plateau: Constraints from Re-Os isotopes, Lithos. 2010, 117: 307-321. |
| Tam P.Y., Zhao G., Liu F.L., Zhou X. and Guo J., SHRIMP U-Pb zircon ages of high-pressure mafic and pelitic granulites and associated rocks from the Jingshan Group in the Jiaodong area, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 270. |
| Wang Y., Zhao G., Xia X., Zhang Y., Fan W., Li C., Bi X. and Li S., Early Mesozoic unroofing pattern of the Dabie Mountains (China): Constraints from the U-Pb detrital zircon geochronology and Si-in-white mica analysis of synorogenic sediments in the Jianghan Basin, Chemical Geology. 2009, 266: 231-241. |
| Wang Y., Zhang Y.Z., Zhao G., Fan W.M., Xia X., Zhang F.F. and Zhang A.M., Zircon U-Pb geochronological and geochemical constraints on the petrogenesis of the Taishan sanukitoids (Shandong): Implications for Neoarchean subduction in the Eastern Block, North China Craton, Precambrian Research. 2009, 174: 273-286. |
| Wong P.W., Sun M., Zhao G., Yuan C. and Xiao W.J., Geochemical and georonological studies of the Alegedayi ophiolitic complexand its implication for the evolution of the Chinese Altai. , Gondwana Research. 2009, 18: 438-454. |
| Yin C., Zhao G., Sun M., Xia X., Wei C.J. and Leung W.H., LA-ICP-MS U-Pb zircon ages of the Qianlishan Complex: constrains on the evolution of the Khondalite Belt in the Western Block of the North China Craton, Precambrian Research. 2009, 174: 78-94. |
| Yin C., Zhao G., Wei C.J. and Sun M., Metamorphic Evolution of the Khondalite Belt in the Westren Block, North China Craton, Granulites & Granulite 2009 - Granulites, partial melting and rheology of orogenic lower crust. Prague. 2009. |
| Yin J.Y., Yuan C., Sun M., Long X., Zhao G., Wong K.P., Geng H.Y. and Cai K., Late Carboniferous high-Mg dioritic dikes in Western Junggar, NW China: Geochemical features, petrogenesis and tectonic implications, Gondwana Research. 2010, 17: 145-152. |
| Yuan C., Sun M., Xiao W., Long X., Zhao G. and Cai K., Late Paleozoic magmatism in the Balikun area, eastern Tianshan: caused by mantle plume, ridge subduction or slab break off?, 3th Symposium on Structural Geology and Geodynamics. Guangzhou, Abstracts. 2010, p. 294. |
| Zhang Z.M., Wang J.L., Dong X., Zhao G., Shen K., Liu F., Yu F. and Wang W., Late Cretaceous Adakite-like charnockite from the Gangdese batholith: Evidence for the Neo-Tethyan mid-ocean ridge subduction in southeastern Tibet, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 465. |
| Zhang Z.M., Zhao G., Santosh M.W., Wang J.L., Dong X. and Shen K., Late Cretaceous Adakite-like charnockite from the Gangdese batholith: Evidence for the Neo-Tethyan mid-ocean ridge subduction in southeastern Tibet?, Gondwana Research. 2010, 17: 615-631. |
| Zhang Z.M., Wang J.L., Dong X., Zhao G., Yu F., Wang W. and Liu F., Petrology and geochronology of the Charnockite from the southern Gangdese Belt, Tibet: evidence for the Andean-type orogen, Acta Petrologica Sinica. 2009, 25: 1707-1720. |
| Zhao G., Li S.Z., Zhang J. and Xia X., A comment on Tectonic evolution of the Hengshan-Wutai-Fuping complexes and its implication for the Trans-North China Orogen, Precambrian Research. 2010, 176: 94-98. |
| Zhao G., Editor Board Member , Precambrian Research. Elsevier, 2010. |
| Zhao G., Invited lecture "Metamorphism and tectonic evolution", Pre-conference workshop of 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics. 2009. |
| Zhao G., Key issues on the Early Precambrian geology of the North China Craton, 2010's Symposium on the Early Precambrian Crustal Evolution. Institute of Geology & Geophysics, CAS, Beijing.. 2010. |
| Zhao G., Metamorphic P-T evolution map of the Precambrian basement of the North China Craton: tectonic implications, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 283. |
| Zhao G., Metamorphic evolution of major tectonic units in the basement of the North China Craton: Key issues and discussion, Acta Petrologica Sinica. 2009, 25: 1772-1792. |
| Zhao G., Wilde S.A. and Zhang J., New evidence from seismic imaging for subduction during assembly of the North China craton: Comment, Geology. 2010, 38: e206. |
| Zhao G., Wilde S.A., Guo J., Cawood P.A., Sun M. and Li X., Single zircon grains record two continental collisional events in the North China craton, Precambrian Research. 2010, 177: 266-276. |
| Zhao G., He Y. and Sun M., The Xiong'er volcanic belt at the southern margin of the North China Craton: Petrographic and geochemical evidence for its outboard position in the Paleo-Mesoproterozoic Columbia Supercontinent, Gondwana Research. 2009, 16: 170-181. |
| Zhao G., When did plate tectonics begin on the North China Craton? Evidence from metamorphism., 3th Symposium on Structural Geology and Geodynamics. Guangzhou, Abstracts. 2010, p. 115. |
| Zhao G., Xiong’er volcanic belt at the southern margin of the North China Craton: A record of the outgrowth of the Paleo-Mesoproterozoic Columbia (Nuna) Supercontinent , 2009 IAGR Annual Convention & 6th International Symposium on Gondwana to Asia. Hanoi, Abstracts. 2009, p. 11. |
| Zhou J., Wilde S.A., Zhao G., Zhang X.Z. and Zheng C.Q., Pan-African metamorphic and magmatic rocks in the Khanka Massif, the boundary between NE China and Far East of Russia: evidence and global implications, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 286. |
| Zhou J., Wilde S.A., Zhang X.Z., Zhao G., Zheng C.Q., Wang Y. and Zhang X.H., The onset of Pacific margin accretion in NE China: Evidence from the Heilongjiang high-pressure metamorphic belt , Tectonophysics. 2009, 478: 230-246. |
| Zhou J., Wilde S.A., Zhang X.Z., Zhao G., Zheng C.Q., Wang Y. and Zhang X.H., The onset of Pacific margin accretion in NE China: evidence from the Heilongjiang high-pressure metamorphic belt., 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p.98. |
| Researcher : Zhao J |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Sun W., Zhou M.F., Gao J., Yang S., Zhao X. and Zhao J., Detrital zircon U-Pb geochronological and Lu-Hf isotopic constraints on the Precambrian magmatic and crustal evolution of the western Yangtze Block, SW China, Precambrian Research. 2009, 172(1-2): 99-126. |
| Zhao J., Zhou M.F. and Zheng J.P., Metasomatic mantle source and crustal contamination for the formation of the Neoproterozoic mafic dike swarm in the northern Yangtze Block, South China. , Lithos . 2010, 115: 177–189. |
| Researcher : Zhao J |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Sun W., Zhou M.F., Gao J., Yang S., Zhao X. and Zhao J., Detrital zircon U-Pb geochronological and Lu-Hf isotopic constraints on the Precambrian magmatic and crustal evolution of the western Yangtze Block, SW China, Precambrian Research. 2009, 172(1-2): 99-126. |
| Zhao J., Zhou M.F. and Zheng J.P., Metasomatic mantle source and crustal contamination for the formation of the Neoproterozoic mafic dike swarm in the northern Yangtze Block, South China. , Lithos . 2010, 115: 177–189. |
| Researcher : Zhao X |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Hennig D., Lehmann B., Frei D., Belyatsky B., Zhao X., Cabral A.R., Zeng P.S., Zhou M.F. and Schmidt K., Early Permian seafloor to continental arc magmatism in the eastern Paleo-Tethys: U-Pb age and Nd-Sr isotope data from the southern Lancangjiang zone, Yunnan, China, Lithos. 2009, 113(3-4): 408-422. |
| Li J., Deng X., Zhou M.F., Liu Y., Zhao X. and Guo J., Laser ablation ICP-MS titanite U-Th-Pb dating of hydrothermal ore deposits: A case study of the Tonglushan Cu-Fe-Au skarn deposit, SE Hubei Province, China, Chemical Geology. 2010, 270(1-4): 56-67. |
| Li J.W., Deng X.D., Zhou M.F., Liu Y.S., Zhao X. and Guo J.L., Laser ablation ICP-MS titanite U-Th-Pb dating of hydrothermal ore deposits: A case study of the Tonglushan Cu-Fe-Au skarn deposit, SE Hubei Province, China. , Chemical Geology, . 2010, 270: 56-67. |
| Sun W., Zhou M.F., Gao J., Yang S., Zhao X. and Zhao J., Detrital zircon U-Pb geochronological and Lu-Hf isotopic constraints on the Precambrian magmatic and crustal evolution of the western Yangtze Block, SW China, Precambrian Research. 2009, 172(1-2): 99-126. |
| Zhao X., Zhou M.F., Li J., Sun M., Gao J., Sun W. and Yang J.H., Late Paleoproterozoic to early Mesoproterozoic Dongchuan Group in Yunnan, SW China: Implications for tectonic evolution of the Yangtze Block: Precambrian Research, Precambrian Research. 2010, 182: 57-69. |
| Researcher : Zhao X |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Hennig D., Lehmann B., Frei D., Belyatsky B., Zhao X., Cabral A.R., Zeng P.S., Zhou M.F. and Schmidt K., Early Permian seafloor to continental arc magmatism in the eastern Paleo-Tethys: U-Pb age and Nd-Sr isotope data from the southern Lancangjiang zone, Yunnan, China, Lithos. 2009, 113(3-4): 408-422. |
| Li J., Deng X., Zhou M.F., Liu Y., Zhao X. and Guo J., Laser ablation ICP-MS titanite U-Th-Pb dating of hydrothermal ore deposits: A case study of the Tonglushan Cu-Fe-Au skarn deposit, SE Hubei Province, China, Chemical Geology. 2010, 270(1-4): 56-67. |
| Li J.W., Deng X.D., Zhou M.F., Liu Y.S., Zhao X. and Guo J.L., Laser ablation ICP-MS titanite U-Th-Pb dating of hydrothermal ore deposits: A case study of the Tonglushan Cu-Fe-Au skarn deposit, SE Hubei Province, China. , Chemical Geology, . 2010, 270: 56-67. |
| Sun W., Zhou M.F., Gao J., Yang S., Zhao X. and Zhao J., Detrital zircon U-Pb geochronological and Lu-Hf isotopic constraints on the Precambrian magmatic and crustal evolution of the western Yangtze Block, SW China, Precambrian Research. 2009, 172(1-2): 99-126. |
| Zhao X., Zhou M.F., Li J., Sun M., Gao J., Sun W. and Yang J.H., Late Paleoproterozoic to early Mesoproterozoic Dongchuan Group in Yunnan, SW China: Implications for tectonic evolution of the Yangtze Block: Precambrian Research, Precambrian Research. 2010, 182: 57-69. |
| Researcher : Zhou J |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Zhou J., Wilde S.A., Zhao G., Zhang X.Z. and Zheng C.Q., Pan-African metamorphic and magmatic rocks in the Khanka Massif, the boundary between NE China and Far East of Russia: evidence and global implications, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 286. |
| Zhou J., Wilde S.A., Zhang X.Z., Zhao G., Zheng C.Q., Wang Y. and Zhang X.H., The onset of Pacific margin accretion in NE China: Evidence from the Heilongjiang high-pressure metamorphic belt , Tectonophysics. 2009, 478: 230-246. |
| Zhou J., Wilde S.A., Zhang X.Z., Zhao G., Zheng C.Q., Wang Y. and Zhang X.H., The onset of Pacific margin accretion in NE China: evidence from the Heilongjiang high-pressure metamorphic belt., 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p.98. |
| Researcher : Zhou MF |
| Project Title: | 16th Annual V.M. Goldschmidt Conference Subduction-related Origin of the 750 Ma Xuelongbao Adakitic Complex (Sichuan Province, China): Implications for the Tectonic Setting of the Giant Neoproterozoic Magmatic Event in South China |
| Investigator(s): | Zhou MF |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | URC/CRCG - Conference Grants for Teaching Staff |
| Start Date: | 08/2006 |
| Abstract: |
| N/A |
| Project Title: | Application of Cu and Fe isotopes to the study of Permian intrusions and ore deposits in Eurasia |
| Investigator(s): | Zhou MF, Gao J |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 01/2008 |
| Completion Date: | 12/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| Background of Research With the development of new analytical tools, in particular the multi-collector inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry (MC-ICP-MS), it is now possible to analyze Cu and Fe isotopes for nature materials. The application of the Cu and Fe isotopes to the geological studies has only been possible in the past a few years. We propose to apply these isotope geochemistry to investigate the Permian mafic intrusions and ore systems. Our previous studies focused on the petrogenesis and mineralization of the Emeishan Large Igneous Province (ELIP) and mafic-ultramafic intrusions in NW China [1-13]. We have investigated the controls on magmatic Ni-Cu-(PGE) sulfide deposits and established a geochemical link between sulfide deposits and associated rocks. Flood basalt across the Eurasian continent include those of the Siberian Traps that are associated with contemporaneous mafic intrusions hosting the largest sulfide deposits in the world [14-21]. Widely distributed basalts and mafic-ultramafic intrusions in Xinjiang in NW China were recently discovered. It is also known that in NW China and North China there are abundant mafic intrusions of possible Permian in age. These intrusions have ages of 269Ma~298Ma dated by various isotopic systems[13, 22-23]. These occurrences have important significance as they may link the Siberian Traps, the ELIP, and flood basalts in Tarim to a single magmatic event in Later Permian time. A major breakthrough in geology in the recent past is the analyses of the “new” stable isotopic systems, such as Cu and Fe. Such analyses have attracted much attention as possible tools for deciphering geochemical process and tracing the source of the metal [24-27]. The isotope fractionations of Cu and Fe are different in the magmatic evolution and mineralization for their different geochemistry, especially in the sulfur-saturated magma systems. On the other hand, Cu is a trace element and Fe is a major element in the mafic-ultramafic magma system. The factors controlling the isotope composition of Cu will be more complex than that of Fe. Cu and Fe isotopes can be used to trace the different magmatic evolution and sulfide separation process of the mafic-ultramafic magma system. Thus, Fe and Cu isotopes can be used as a powerful tool in the research of petrogenesis and mineralization of Cu-Ni sulfide bearing mafic-ultramafic intrusions. It is envisioned that they will be of considerable importance in solving the problems and in providing new constraints on magmatic processes and ore genesis across the Eurasian continent. Key issues and problems Extensively Permian magmatism is wide-spread all over the Eurasia and includes the well known ~252 Ma Siberian Traps in Russia and ~260 Ma Emeishan Large Igneous Province in China. In addition, Permian mafic intrusions and flood basalts are known to occur across the entire Eurasian continent including NW China and North China. About all Cu-Ni sulfide deposits are associated with the mafic-ultramafic intrusions or flood basalts. But some mafic-ultramafic intrusions are not mineralized even if they have similar chemical compositions to the intrusions which are mineralized. The occurrence of diverse rock types and ore deposits raises some questions: Which is the key controller of the mineralization, i.e. magma fractionation, crustal contamination or fluid activity? Which geochemical feature can be used to identify the rocks which are mineralized or not? Because of the modern technology, the determination of stable isotopes of transition metals in geological materials is now available, but this technique is not yet applied to the mafic intrusion and ore systems. Thus, the significance of these isotopes to resolve the above problems is unknown. Objectives The principal objectives of this proposed research are to document the Cu and Fe isotope compositions of the intrusions or flood basalts of Siberian Traps and Emeishan Flood Basalt Province in SW China and to compare the difference between the mineralized rocks and un-mineralized rocks. Utilizing Cu and Fe isotopic geochemical data for individual intrusive bodies, we will aim to understand and constrain the origin of the rocks and factors controlling the diversity of ore deposits. Our major goal will be to establish a geochemical link between the transition metal isotope and sulfide mineralization and to determine the nature of the mineralization within the intrusions. Ultimately our work will provide information about the mineralization potential of the Permian igneous bodies across the Eurasian continent. Key references: 1. Zhou M.-F. et al., 2002, Earth Planet Sci Lett, 196, 113-122. 2. Zhou M.-F. et al, 2006, Contrib Mineral Petrol, 151,1-19. 3. Zhou M-F et al. 2005 J Petrol, 46, 2253-2280. 4. Zhong H et al., 2002, Mineralium Deposita, 37, 226-239. 5. Zhong H, et al., 2003, Intern Geol Rev, 45, 371-382. 6. Wang Y. et al, Contrib Mineral Petrol, 152, 309-321; 7. Wang Y et al. 2006, Mineralium Deposita, 41, 771-783. 8. Wang CY et al., 2005, Lithos, 83, 47-66. 9. Song et al, 2004, The Can Mineral, 42, 469-483. 10. Song XY et al, 2004, J Geol Society, 161, 773-781. 11. Song XY, 2004, PhD thesis (HKU). 12. Wang Y. 2006, PhD thesis (HKU). 13. Zhou MF, et al., 2004, Chem Geol, 209, 233-257. 14.Czamanske GK, 1995, Resource Geol, 18, 1-48. 15.Fedorenko VA et al, 1997, Intern Geol Rev 39, 479-531. 16.Lightfoot PC et al, 1994, OGS Spec. Vol. 5, 283-312. 17. Naldrett AJ et al, 1992, Econ Geol, 87, 975-1004. 18. Wooden JL et al., 1993, Geochem Cosmochem Acta, 57, 3677-3704. 19. Arndt NT et al, 1993, Tectonics 223, 39-52. 20.Arndt NT et al, 1998, Contrib Mineral Petrol 133, 297-313. 21. Arndt NT et al, 2003, Econ Geol 98, 495-515. 22.Zhang ZH et al., Acta Petrol Miner 24, 285-293. 23. Han BF et al. 2004, Chinese Science Bulletin 49: 2324-2328. 24. Graham et al., 2004, Chem Geol, 207:147-169. 25. Markl et al., 2006, Geochem Cosmochem Acta, 70:3011-3030. 26. Johnson CM, et al., (eds), 2004, Geochemistry of non-Traditional Stable Isotope. 27. Poitrasson F, 2006, Chem Geol, 235, 195-200. |
| Project Title: | A possible Permian large igneous province in NW China and its ore potential |
| Investigator(s): | Zhou MF, Robinson PT |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 08/2008 |
| Abstract: |
| 1) To understand the distribution of Permian flood basalts and associated mafic-ultramafic intrusions in the Tarim Basin and surrounding regions, NW China. 2) To constrain the age and origin of these rocks and to evaluate the genetic relationship(s) between the intrusive and extrusive rocks using their geochemical and age data. 3) To provide a better understanding of the factors controlling the formation of sulfide and oxide ore deposits associated with such rocks, and ultimately to provide information about the mineralization potential of Permian mafic-ultramafic intrusions throughout the region. |
| Project Title: | Outstanding Research Student Supervisor Award 2007-2008 |
| Investigator(s): | Zhou MF |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Outstanding Research Student Supervisor Award |
| Start Date: | 10/2008 |
| Abstract: |
| For recognizing, rewarding and encouraging exceptioal research achievements; and for strengthening the research culture of the University. |
| Project Title: | The Pobei layered mafic-ultramafic intrusion, NE Tarim, NW China |
| Investigator(s): | Zhou MF |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 01/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| The Pobei intrusion is a layered mafic-ultramafic intrusion that we recently identified in NW China during our previous investigation. Our objectives will be 1. to examine the contact relationship between the intrusion and the country rocks; 2. to map the spatial distribution of rocks in the intrusion; 3 to examine different rocks types and their relationship; 4. to evaluate sulfide and oxide mineralization; and 5. to carry out geochemical analyses in order to understand its petrogenesis and ore potnetials. |
| Project Title: | Mesozoic magmatism and metallogeny of the Yidun arc terrane, Eastern Tibetan Plateau |
| Investigator(s): | Zhou MF |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Dr. Stephen S.F. Hui Trust Fund |
| Start Date: | 12/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| The eastern Tibetan plateau between the Yangtze Block and the Qiangtang Terrane formed through the collision between Eurasia and Gondwana and is composed of micro-continents and island arcs that once existed in the Paleo-Tethys. The unique tectonic setting makes this part of the plateau a major mineral exploration target in the past decade. Its immense prospects have been attracting mining industrial but understanding of its tectonic evolution and metallogeny is still poor. Among the numerous volcanic arcs developed during the Permo-Triassic, the Yidun arc is the largest and consists of Triassic arc volcanic rocks and related plutons. It is bounded by the Jinsha Jiang Suture to the west, and by the Garze-Litang suture to the east. (see Fig. 1) Extensive Mesozoic magmatism recorded in the Yidun arc terrane is known to be associated with mineralization. Largely the deposits identified in the past include volcanogenic massive sulfide deposits and porphyry deposits. The ages, tectonic setting and ore potential are poorly known in literature, despite numerous exploration programme carried by local geological surveys. As a preliminary study, we will characterize these two types of deposits to examine the metallogenesis in relation to the tectonic evolution of the Yidun arc terrane in the eastern Tibetan Plateau. In particular, the Pulang copper deposit, a giant porphyry-type copper deposit, will be selected for a PhD project, to be carried out by a PhD student, Wang Bai-Qiu. This deposit was recently discovered in the southern Yidun arc (see Fig.1). The ore-bearing intrusion is composed of quartz diorite and monzonitic granite. In this project, our objectives are: 1. To characterize two types of mineral deposits, i.e. porphyry and massive sulfide depsoits in the Yidun arc terrane; 2. To understand the petrogenesis of the arc plutons, in particular those hosting ore deposits, 3. To provide age constraints on the tectonic events of the Yidun arc terrane, and 4. Ultimately to unravel the genetic link between the tectonic setting and metallogenesis of the Yidun arc terrane. |
| Project Title: | A possibly Neoproterozoic subduction-related IOCG metallogenic province in SW China |
| Investigator(s): | Zhou MF, Malpas JG, Robinson PT, Zhao JH |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 01/2010 |
| Abstract: |
| 1) To determine the precise ages of the plutons and to constrain the zircon age spectra of the sedimentary strata using zircon U-Pb isotopes; 2) To understand the crustal growth history in the western Yangtze Block through detrital zircon Lu-Hf isotopic analyses; 3) To investigate the relationship between the adakitic plutons and the subduction-related mafic and granitic plutons in the region; 4) To constrain the tectonic setting of the host strata through stratigraphy, petrography and whole-rock major and trace element and isotopic analyses; 5) To determine the ages of the ore deposits through Ar-Ar and Re-Os isotopic dating; 6) To define a Neoproterozoic IOCG metallogenic province in China and its mineral resource potential; 7) To develop an ore-forming model that may provide guidelines for mineral exploration |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Hennig D., Lehmann B., Frei D., Belyatsky B., Zhao X., Cabral A.R., Zeng P.S., Zhou M.F. and Schmidt K., Early Permian seafloor to continental arc magmatism in the eastern Paleo-Tethys: U-Pb age and Nd-Sr isotope data from the southern Lancangjiang zone, Yunnan, China, Lithos. 2009, 113(3-4): 408-422. |
| Huang Z.L., Li X.B., Zhou M.F., Li W.B. and Jin Z.G., REE and C-O Isotopic Geochemistry of Calcites from the World-class Huize Pb-Zn Deposits, Yunnan, China: Implications for the Ore Genesis. , ACTA GEOLOGICA SINICA-ENGLISH EDITION . 2010, 84,: 597-613. |
| Li J., Deng X., Zhou M.F., Liu Y., Zhao X. and Guo J., Laser ablation ICP-MS titanite U-Th-Pb dating of hydrothermal ore deposits: A case study of the Tonglushan Cu-Fe-Au skarn deposit, SE Hubei Province, China, Chemical Geology. 2010, 270(1-4): 56-67. |
| Li J.W., Deng X.D., Zhou M.F., Liu Y.S., Zhao X. and Guo J.L., Laser ablation ICP-MS titanite U-Th-Pb dating of hydrothermal ore deposits: A case study of the Tonglushan Cu-Fe-Au skarn deposit, SE Hubei Province, China. , Chemical Geology, . 2010, 270: 56-67. |
| Nondal S.K. and Zhou M.F., Enrichment of PGE through interaction of evolved boninitic magmas with early formed cumulates in a gabbro–breccia zone of the Mesoarchean Nuasahi massif (eastern India). , Mineralium Deposita . 2010, 45: 69-91. |
| Qi L., Zhou M.F., Gao J. and Zhao Z., An improved Carius tube technique for determination of low concentrations of Re and Os in pyrites. , J. Anal. At. Spectrom., . 2010, 25,: 585–589. |
| Sun W., Zhou M.F., Gao J., Yang S., Zhao X. and Zhao J., Detrital zircon U-Pb geochronological and Lu-Hf isotopic constraints on the Precambrian magmatic and crustal evolution of the western Yangtze Block, SW China, Precambrian Research. 2009, 172(1-2): 99-126. |
| Yu J.H., O'Reilly S.Y., Wang L.J., Griffin W.L., Zhou M.F., Zhang M. and Shu L.S., Components and episodic growth of Precambrian crust in the Cathaysia Block, South China: Evidence from U–Pb ages and Hf isotopes of zircons in Neoproterozoic sediments. , Precambrian Research . 2010, 181: 97–114. |
| Yuan C., Zhou M.F., Sun M., Zhao Y.J., Wilde S., Long X.P. and Yan D.P., Triassic granitoids in the eastern Songpan Ganzi Fold Belt, SW China: Magmatic response to geodynamics of the deep lithosphere. , Earth and Planetary Science Letters . 2010, 290,: 481–492. |
| Zhang H.F., Zhou M.F., Sun M. and Zhou X.H., The origin of Mengyin and Fuxian diamondiferous kimberlites from the North China Craton: Implication for Palaeozoic subducted oceanic slab–mantle interaction. , Journal of Asian Earth Sciences . 2010, 37: 425-437. |
| Zhao J., Zhou M.F. and Zheng J.P., Metasomatic mantle source and crustal contamination for the formation of the Neoproterozoic mafic dike swarm in the northern Yangtze Block, South China. , Lithos . 2010, 115: 177–189. |
| Zhao T.P. and Zhou M.F., Geochemical constraints on the tectonic setting of Paleoproterozoic A-type granites in the southern margin of the North China Craton, Journal of Asian Earth Sciences . 2009, 36: 183-195. |
| Zhao X., Zhou M.F., Li J., Sun M., Gao J., Sun W. and Yang J.H., Late Paleoproterozoic to early Mesoproterozoic Dongchuan Group in Yunnan, SW China: Implications for tectonic evolution of the Yangtze Block: Precambrian Research, Precambrian Research. 2010, 182: 57-69. |
| Zhou M.F., The evolving Earth and its changing atmorshperic oxygen , 2010 The 2nd Conference on Environmental Science and Information Application Technology (ESIAT 2010). 2010. |
| Researcher : Zhou X |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Tam P.Y., Zhao G., Liu F.L., Zhou X. and Guo J., SHRIMP U-Pb zircon ages of high-pressure mafic and pelitic granulites and associated rocks from the Jingshan Group in the Jiaodong area, 2009's National Symposium on Petrology and Geodynamics, Changchun. Abstracts. 2009, p. 270. |
| Researcher : Zhu S |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Li Y.L. and Zhu S., Authigenic and biogenic minerals in volcanic hot springs of Kamchatka, Russia, Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta. 2010, 74: A598. |
| Zhu S. and Li Y.L., Quartz nanoparticles in 2461-2495 million years old banded iron formation from Dales Gorge, Hamersley, Western Australia, Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta. 2010, 74: A1234. |
| Researcher : Zong Y |
| Project Title: | The environmental conditions associated with the onset of rice cultivation in the Pearl River delta area |
| Investigator(s): | Zong Y |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 02/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| Existing theories suggest that an expansion of woodland and wetland habitats from southern to northern China was associated with an increase in monsoon intensity at the start of the Holocene (Morrill et al., 2003). These warmer conditions encouraged Mesolithic communities to settle in Siberia, Mongolia and the Loess Plateau of northern China, as well as many upland areas in central and eastern China. Soon after 8000 cal. years BP human communities settled in these areas and started to domesticate plants and animals (e.g. An et al., 2004; Yuan et al., 2008). This marks the dawn of the Neolithic era in China and occurred almost simultaneously in both the Yellow River and Yangtze basins (e.g. Liu et al., 2007). Archaeological records from the Loess Plateau indicate that Neolithic societies flourished from c. 7500 cal. years BP, with dry farming the dominant activity (An et al., 2004). In central and eastern China, the same period saw development of Neolithic wet-rice farming on the low-lying wetlands of the Yangtze (Zong et al., 2007). However, the Neolithic farming in southern and southeastern China started much later. Before c. 4000 cal. years BP, the Neolithic activities in both the Fujian coast and the Guangdong coast were of dominantly maritime nature. These activities left numerous shell mounds and fish bones, suggesting fishing and shell collecting were commonplace (Zheng et al., 2004; Jiao et al., 2004). Soon after c. 4000 cal. years BP, the amount of shell mounds was evidently reduced (Zong et al., in press; Jiao, 2004). Between c. 4000 and 3000 cal. years BP, rice cultivation emerged as main food production in the Minjiang estuary (Lin et al., 2004) and the Pearl River delta (Zheng et al., 2004). Since this time, rice cultivation spread through Taiwan and Philippines on to the Austronesian region (Spriggs, 2003). Why did the Neolithic cultivation in south and southeast China start nearly 4000 years later than those in central and northern China? Some scholars, such as Zheng et al. (2004), have attributed this late farming development in the Guangdong coast to environmental factors. In the Pearl River delta for instance, between 6000 and 4000 cal. years BP, relative sea level rose to the present height (Zong, 2004), and the areas around the apex of the North and West Rivers delta plains emerged as the early stage of deltaic progradation (Zong et al., in press). The emergence of the delta plains was associated with changes in the ecosystem from dominantly mangrove brackish-water wetland conditions to freshwater marsh environment. It is possible that such environmental change had provided suitable habitats for rice cultivation and conditions disadvantageous to shell collecting. Others, including Jiao (2004), however, have attributed the cultural change to the possibility of new immigrants from the Yangtze basin. This is because the collapse of Neolithic culture in the Yangtze basin (Yasuda et al., 2004; Wu and Liu, 2004) caused by the mid-Holocene cooling event c. 4000 cal. years ago (Wang et al., 2005), and it is possible that some of the Neolithic communities had migrated to south and southeast China and started rice cultivation since. To test these competing hypotheses for the cultural change in southern China requires the generation of new, high quality and independently dated records of palaeoenvironmental change from the Pearl River deltaic lowlands and estuarine wetlands of the Fujian coast, because the existing records were obtained mostly for broad-scale environmental reconstruction and less well constrained chronologically. In this seed-funding application, we seek financial support to test the importance of the local environmental and external cultural hypotheses through the collection of high resolution palaeoenvironmental and archaeological records from the apex area of the North and West Rivers delta plains as the first step of answering the question: why did the Neolithic rice cultivation in south and southeast China start nearly 4000 years late? In particular, we will examine the importance of changes in habitat conditions as a result of deltaic progradation, and the precise timing of cultural change from shell collecting to rice farming. In other words, we propose to test two hypotheses: (A) the environmental conditions in the Pearl River delta had only become suitable for rice farming around 4000 years ago; and (B) the environmental conditions in the study area were suitable for rice farming prior to the commencement of rice farming, implying that the start of rice cultivation in the area was a result of immigrants coming from the Yangtze basin, who brought with them the farming culture. After this initial investigation, further finding will be sought to extend this research to a broader geographical scale – the Guangdong and Fujian coasts. This extended research will involve multidisciplinary approaches, i.e. in addition to the palaeoenvironmental reconstructions, archaeological evidence will also be examined to identify any cultural elements which were new to the Pearl River delta and linked to Neolithic cultures of the Yangtze basin and the precise timing of cultural changes in different coastal locations. |
| Project Title: | The mid-Holocene environmental and cultural change in the Pearl River delta, China |
| Investigator(s): | Zong Y |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 10/2009 |
| Abstract: |
| 1) Obtain high-resolution sedimentary records from the northern part of the Pearl River delta where the deltaic plain emerged during the middle Holocene and where most Neolithic sites concentrate. 2) Analyze the microfossil assemblages, rice phytoliths (and other cultural evidence), sedimentary characteristics, and organic content, and to reconstruct palaeo-environmental conditions before, during and after the development of rice farming in the study area. 3) Establish a robust chronology for the sedimentary sequences, particularly the timing of the onset of the rice-farming culture in the study area. |
| Project Title: | Tibets Palimpsest Lake System: A Chronicle of Quaternary Climate Change' |
| Investigator(s): | Zong Y, Ali JR, Li SH, Liu Z, Switzer AD, Aitchison JC |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | General Research Fund (GRF) |
| Start Date: | 01/2010 |
| Abstract: |
| 1) build upon our pilot study in order to make a detailed investigation of the former extent of the great Tibetan interior lake system; 2) establish a “facies model” for development of high-altitude lake shorelines; 3) date paleoshorelines in order to track the evolution of lakes through the Quaternary and where possible further back into Cenozoic tim; 4) correlate results with those of sediment cores from other lakes across the region as well as ice-core investigations from elsewhere on the Tibetan Plateau; 5) use the proxy record in different lakes across the plateau to investigate the interplay between different regional circulation systems in particular mid-latitude westerlies and the Asian monsoonal weather pattern; 6) investigate the possibility of early Holocene glacial advance the regional evidence concerning which remains sparse or conflicting; 7) introduce undergraduate students to cutting edge research and train post graduate students |
| Project Title: | The Holocene sea-level history of the South China Sea |
| Investigator(s): | Zong Y |
| Department: | Earth Sciences |
| Source(s) of Funding: | Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research |
| Start Date: | 03/2010 |
| Abstract: |
| Context: Changes in relative sea level are of local and global interest. An increased public awareness of predicted future sea-level rise has placed significant socioeconomic relevance on the understanding of land-ocean interaction and coastal dynamics. The threat of future sea-level rise to low-lying coastal regions as such the large deltaic plains around the South China Sea heightens the importance of the studies of past sea-level change and predictions of future sea-level rise. Exploring geographic trends in sea level is of critical importance because sea-level changes are not globally uniform. This is because of the isostatic adjustment of the solid Earth, as well as gravitational and rotational changes driven by the exchange of mass between ice sheets and oceans. For these reasons it is essential that regional sea-level records for the South China Sea are developed. Identifying the likely mechanisms behind sea-level change during the last millennia is essential to validation of geophysical and climate models used in predicting sea-level change. Key Issues: The South China Sea is a far-field region (distant from former ice sheets), and is therefore, capable of recording the eustatic component of the global sea-level history, which is related to ice volume changes over various timescales. Compared with other regions of the world, sea-level studies in the South China Sea region have been limited and there are now two critical issues to be addressed. (1). There is a lack of good-quality sea-level records for the mid-late Holocene for the South China Sea region. The majority of sea-level studies were carried out in the 1970s and 1980s along the northern coast of the South China Sea (e.g. Huang et al., 1987; Li et al., 1990). These studies employed simplistic methodologies that yielded sea-level data which lack precise information on the indicative meanings of the data points (the defined height relationship of the sample to a former tidal datum, such as mean tide level) and have large age uncertainties because of the dating techniques used (Zong, 2004; Horton et al., 2005). Further, many sections of the coast of the South China Sea are devoid of Holocene sea-level data. (2). Because of the lack of good-quality sea-level data from the region, any changes in the eustatic signal during the mid-late Holocene are impossible to decipher. It is vital to determine the timing and abruptness of the reduction in global melting to better understand the driving mechanisms for this change and define the height and timing of the mid-Holocene highstand. The fall in sea-level from this time to the present is a result of ongoing glacial isostatic adjustment processes and equatorial ocean siphoning. Indeed such a lack of sea-level data has caused heated debates on whether or not the mid-Holocene sea-level highstand even exists in the region (Davis et al., 2000; Yim and Huang, 2002; Baker et al., 2003), and seriously hindered advancement of geophysical modeling of sea-level change and therefore predictions for future sea-level rise. Outcomes: The research will generate the first detailed Holocene sea-level history for the coasts of the South China Sea, which can be applied by a wider scientific community as a base line for assessing the evolutionary history of the region’s coastal systems and for differentiating the relative importance of water/sediment discharge and human activity from sea-level change as drivers of coastal change. The research will establish a ‘far field’ eustatic sea-level record which will significantly improve the geophysical modeling capability to investigate the hydro-isostatic responses of the earth to ice-loading changes and provide accurate predictions for future sea-level rise in the region where millions of humans are under the threat of coastal flood hazards. Objectives: Central to this research project is the application of the quantitative approach to sea-level reconstruction. The project has five objectives: A. To undertake field work at a field site in the southern coast of the the South China Sea, collecting contemporary and fossil sediments for detailed microfossil and other sedimentological analyses, B. To develop a diatom-based tidal level transfer function from the contemporary samples suitable for high-precision sea-level reconstructions, C. To apply the transfer function to fossil sediment sequences and thereby develop new sea-level index points and relative sea level records from the site, D. To decipher the eustatic signal and therefore determine the height and timing of the mid-Holocene highstand. References: Baker et al., 2003. Comment on ‘mid-Holocene higher sea-level indications from the south China coast’ by Yim and Huang: a regional perspective. Marine Geology 196, 91-98. Davis et al., 2000. Late Holocene higher sea-level indications from the south China coast. Marine Geology 171 Letter section, 1-5. Horton et al., 2005. Holocene sea levels and palaeoenvironments, Malay-Thai Peninsula, southeast Asia. The Holocene 15, 1199-1213. Huang et al., 1987. Sea-level changes along the coastal area of south China since late Pleistocene. In Qin and Zhao (eds), Late Quaternary sea-level changes. China Ocean Press, Beijing, pp 142-154. Li et al., 1990. The environmental evolution of the Pearl River delta in the last 10,000 years (in Chinese). China Ocean Press, Beijing. Yim and Huang, 2002. Middle Holocene higher sea-level indications from the south China coast. Marine Geology 182 Letter section, 225-230. Zong, 2004. Mid-Holocene sea-level highstand along the southeast coast of China. Quaternary International 117, 55-67. |
| List of Research Outputs |
| Innes J.B., Zong Y., Chen Z., Chen C., Wang Z. and Wang H., Environmental history, palaeoecology and human activity at the early Neolithic forager/cultivator site at Kuahuqiao, Hangzhou, eastern China, Quaternary Science Reviews. Elsevier, 2009, 28: 1-18. |
| Lloyd J.M., Norddahl H., Bentley M.J., Newton A.J., Tucker O. and Zong Y., Lateglacial to Holocene relative sea-level changes in the Bjarkarlundur area near Reykholar, North West Iceland, Journal of Quaternary Science. 2009, 24: 816-831. |
| Yu F., Zong Y., Lloyd J.M., Huang G., Leng M.J., Kendrick C., Lamb A.L. and Yim W.W.S., Bulk organic d13C and C/N as indicators for sediment sources in the Pearl River delta and estuary, southern China, Estuarne, Coastal and Shelf Science. 2010, 87: 618-630. |
| Zong Y., Kemp A.C., Yu F., Lloyd J.M., Huang G. and Yim W.W.S., Diatoms from the Pearl River estuary, China and their suitability as water salinity indicators for coastal environments, Marine Micropaeontology. 2010, 75: 38-49. |
| Zong Y., Wang Z., Chen Z. and Innes J.B., Holocene environmental history and the rise and fall of the Neolithic agriculture in the Taihu area, east coast of China, International Conference of Biogeology. 2010. |