Zircon - A possible indicator of mass transfer in deformation zones: A solution for the Roffna gneiss controversy (Suretta nappe, Switzerland)

This paper proposes a simple volume (mass) balancing technique as a means to assess the volume loss and tectonic flattening of mylonitic shear zones. The method involves counting the number of zircon crystals in oriented polished thin sections, analyzed subsequently in the electron microprobe, using the BSEI mode, and a spectrometer setup for detection of the element Zr. Here we present an application to the Roffna gneiss (Eastern Switzerland), a porphyritic granite of Permian origin, which has been metamorphosed and transformed into a phengitic schist under low-grade metamorphic conditions. Mass balances for this material have produced controversial interpretations, in that a first analysis of chemical data of wall rock and mylonite suggested an isochoric mylonitic transition event, while a dramatic volume loss of some 50% in the course this process was inferred after a re-evaluation of the same data. Electron-microscopy of zircon crystals that were retrieved from rocks which had undergone different degrees of deformation revealed only minor alterations and mechanical damage of single grains. This stability of zircon justified the use of single crystals, and in consequence of the element Zr, as passive markers in determining volume (mass) changes during deformation. Results obtained by this method allow us to confirm that the deformation of the Roffna gneiss involved a volume loss of 29 ± 6%, accompanied by chemical alterations. Deformation-induced mobility changes of various elements lead to small gains in Mg and Cr but significant losses Si, Al, Na, Ca, and Sr during the metamorphic event. All other elements, including the REE, underwent no substantial long-range transport.