Heterogeneous strain and polymetamorphism in high-grade terranes: Insight into crustal processes from the athabasca granulite terrane, western Canada, and the Limpopo Complex, southern Africa

K. H. Mahan, C. A. Smit, M. L. Williams, G. Dumond, D. D. Van Reenen

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

13 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Heterogeneous strain commonly serves as an important natural instrument for unraveling complex tectonic histories in polyphase metamorphic terranes. We present key examples of multi-scale heterogeneous deformation from two classic deep-crustal granulite terranes, the Athabasca Granulite Terrane in western Canada and the Limpopo Complex in southern Africa. These examples are chosen to illustrate how localized strain and attendant metamorphism played a key role in the development and preservation of important records of deep-crustal processes. In addition, several common characteristics of these terranes are identified through this analysis and include heterogeneous deep-crustal flow, regional-scale tectonic heterogeneity, and multistage exhumation with high-resolution records developed in locally hydrated shear zones. Better recognition of the fundamental spatial and temporal heterogeneity in these and other similar polymetamorphic terranes may help to reconcile apparently conflicting interpretations and tectonic models.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationOrigin and Evolution of Precambrian High-Grade Gneiss Terranes, with Special Emphasis on the Limpopo Complex of Southern Africa
PublisherGeological Society of America
Pages269-287
Number of pages19
ISBN (Print)9780813712079
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2011

Publication series

NameMemoir of the Geological Society of America
Volume207
ISSN (Print)0072-1069

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Heterogeneous strain and polymetamorphism in high-grade terranes: Insight into crustal processes from the athabasca granulite terrane, western Canada, and the Limpopo Complex, southern Africa'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this