A record of 0.5 Ga of evolution of the continental crust along the northern edge of the Kaapvaal Craton, South Africa: Consequences for the understanding of Archean geodynamic processes

This study has both important regional and global implications. Firstly, the presence of a continuous basement from the Thabazimbi-Murchison Lineament to the Palala Shear Zone, different than Central Zone of the Limpopo Complex basement, implies a complete reviewing of the whole Limpopo Complex concept. Secondly, the geometry observed in the northern Kaapvaal craton is assumed to testify for a complete accretionary orogenic sequence with formation of both mafic and TTG lithologies through arc-back arc geodynamic. This was followed by a long-lived lateral compression triggering partial melting of the lower continental crust and emplacement of Bt-granitoids bodies that stabilizes the continental crust. Lastly, partial melting of the underlying enriched mantle stabilized the entire lithosphere allowing long-term preservation of the crustal block.