The Cycling of Redox Sensitive Elements at Subduction Zones: Insights from Subducted Mantle Lithosphere

Abstract

Upon subduction and devolatilisation, hydrated mantle lithosphere potentially transfers redox sensitive elements to oxidise or reduce the sub-arc mantle and other lithologies. In this study, whole rock and mineral geochemistry, petrographic analysis, in-situ trace element geochemistry and sulfur isotopes investigate changes to iron, sulfur and highly siderophile element distribution throughout the subduction cycle. The change in sample redox state was limited with local mobilisation of these elements only, except in the case of hybrid lithologies.