The secret life of quartz; SEM-cathodoluminescence of quartz grains from Andrill SMS core and recycling of sediments

Abstract

Scanning Electron Microscope-Cathodoluminescence combined with optical microscopy has been used to identify recycling in single quartz grains from the Andrill SMS core, from the Victoria Land Basin. Using Bernet & Bassett’s classification flow chart (2005) likely source rock types for single detrital quartz grains have been identified. The majority of grains analysed were classified as plutonic, primarily derived from the Granite harbour intrusive granites. Two percent of plutonic grains showed remnant silica cement, which is evidence that the grains were recycled through the Transantarctic Mountains. Less than 1% of grains were identified as metamorphic. They were characterised by a dark, featureless appearance in CL and are derived from the metasedimenatry Koettlitz group. Very few volcanic grains were identified. In a wider context, this information can be used to aid the deliniation of the Paleoclimate history of Antarctica as sediment transport and delivery are known to vary over time as the climate and tectonics of the region continually evolve.