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Application of Electron Microprobe Age Mapping and Dating of Monazite

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 July 2020

M. L. Williams
Affiliation:
Department of Geosciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA01003
M. J. Jercinovic
Affiliation:
Department of Geosciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA01003
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Extract

High resolution X-ray mapping and dating of monazite (Th, REE-phosphate) using the electron microprobe is an exceptionally powerful technique for structural, metamorphic, and tectonic analysis in geology. Age determination of geologic materials has been conventionally accomplished by mass spectrometry-based analysis of radioisotopic ratios in minerals from hand-picked mineral separates, careful sampling of individual grains out of petrographic thin sections, or by detailed ion probe analysis. Recently, use of the electron microprobe for dating purposes has been attempted. In principal, the concentrations of Th, U and Pb uniquely define the age if non-radiogenic Pb is either not initially present or can be subtracted from the total Pb. Monazite contains high concentrations of Th and U and does not appear to incorporate significant non-radiogenic Pb during mineral growth. Furthermore, monazite is a ubiquitous accessory phase in many metamorphic and igneous rocks, making it ideal for microprobe dating.

Type
Ceramics & Minerals
Copyright
Copyright © Microscopy Society of America

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