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Highly oxidized intraplate basalts and deep carbon storage
Xu-Han Dong1, Shui-Jiong Wang1,2, Wenzhong Wang3,4,5
1State Key Laboratory of Geological Processes and Mineral Resources, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China.
Science Advances
|August 7, 2024
Summary
Recycled carbonates in the deep Earth oxidize mantle rocks, storing significant carbon. Stagnant subducted slabs in the mantle transition zone are key to this deep carbon storage and climate regulation.
Area of Science:
- Geochemistry
- Geology
- Earth Science
Background:
- The deep carbon cycle is vital for Earth's mantle dynamics and habitability.
- Recycled carbonates act as oxidants in mantle redox reactions, forming oxidized domains and storing carbon deep within the Earth.
- Understanding these processes is crucial for comprehending global carbon cycling and climate regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the origin of highly oxidized mantle domains.
- To explore the role of recycled carbonates in deep carbon storage.
- To assess the impact of subducted slabs on mantle oxidation and climate.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of high Fe3+/∑Fe values in Cenozoic intraplate basalts from eastern China.
- Geochemical and isotopic analysis of basaltic samples.
- Modeling of mantle redox reactions and carbon storage.
Main Results:
- High Fe3+/∑Fe values were observed in Cenozoic intraplate basalts, indicating oxidized mantle sources.
- Geochemical and isotopic signatures suggest the involvement of carbonated melts with recycled carbonate components.
- Evidence points to oxidized mantle domains sourced from stagnant subducted slabs in the mantle transition zone.
Conclusions:
- Carbonated melts derived from stagnant subducted slabs oxidize the mantle, creating highly oxidized domains.
- Deep mantle carbon storage is enhanced by the formation and isolation of diamonds during carbon-iron redox reactions.
- The volume of stagnant subducted slabs in the mantle transition zone is a significant factor influencing global climate regulation.
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