Metamorphic P–T–t paths of the Zanhuang metamorphic complex: Implications for the Paleoproterozoic evolution of the Trans-North China Orogen

Abstract Garnet-bearing metapelites are cropped out in the Zanhuang metamorphic complex located in the central section of the N–S trending Trans-North China Orogen. Petrological studies indicate that these garnet-bearing metapelites preserve three distinct metamorphic assemblages (M 1 –M 3 ). The cores of garnet porphyroblasts and fine-grained inclusions of plagioclase + quartz ± biotite ± apatite ± magnetite ± rutile ± ilmenite define the prograde metamorphic stage (M 1 ). The assemblage of the peak metamorphic stage (M 2 ) consists of biotite + plagioclase + quartz ± kyanite ± hornblende ± magnetite ± ilmenite in equilibrium with the lowest- X Mn garnet rims. The peak metamorphism was followed by a near-isothermal decompressional stage (M 3 ) and the development of symplectitic coronas of biotite + plagioclase + quartz ± hornblende ± magnetite surrounding garnet porphyroblasts. Quantitative phase equilibria modeling and traditional thermobarometric estimations were applied to yield P – T conditions of 4.5–5.9 kbar and 551–596 °C for stage M 1 , 9.6–12.3 kbar and 770–830 °C for stage M 2 , and ∼4.7 kbar and ∼635 °C for stage M 3 . The combination of the mineral inclusions, mineral compositions, and metamorphic reactions in the Zanhuang metapelites defines a clockwise P – T path with nearly isothermal decompression, which is considered to have been related to the amalgamation of the Eastern and Western Blocks to form the North China Craton. Abundant U–Pb spot analyses of metamorphic zircons from the gneiss and amphibolite reveal two discrete, meaningful ages of metamorphism within the Zanhuang complex: the first age dates to ∼2507 Ma, and the second age dates to ∼1839 Ma. The first age group (∼2507 Ma) was most likely associated with a regional Neoarchean granulite-facies metamorphic event within the North China Craton, whereas the second age group (∼1839 Ma) is interpreted as the result of a Paleoproterozoic orogenic event that occurred in the Trans-North China Orogen (TNCO).