Mesoscale and microscopic structures record compaction and crystal-melt segregation in silicic mushes.

ABSTRACT: Gravitationally-driven compaction has been proposed as an important mechanism for crystal-melt segregation in silicic mushes. However, there is no microstructural evidence of crystal deformation consistent with compaction in silicic plutonic rocks. We have investigated the Caijiang pluton in South China that provides compelling evidence for compaction and melt segregation preserved within rock records. This pluton consists of porphyritic syenite (59-62 wt% SiO₂), quartz monzonite (67-70 wt% SiO₂) and granite (70-79 wt% SiO₂) from bottom to top. These rocks contain K-feldspar megacrysts (~ 55.0% in syenite, ~ 38.6% in quartz monzonite and ~ 33.8% in granite) that exhibit a subvertical alignment. A compositional gap from 62 to 67 wt% SiO₂ and a gra

SUBMITTER: Liu YC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12521665 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature