Geochronology of HP/LT rocks and amphibolites from the Hajiabad-Esfandagheh area, Sanandaj-Sirjan Zone, Iran

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Michael Bröcker
• Subject Area: Mineralogy, Petrology and Geochemistry
• Term: from 2013 to 2019
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 242813669

This proposal seeks funding for field-based research activities that aim at establishing a solid geochronologic foundation for HP/LT rocks and amphibolites from mélanges of the Hajiabad- Esfandagheh area, Sanandaj-Sirjan Zone, Iran. The available geochronological database is relatively small and insufficient to unravel the metamorphic record. In order to evaluate the relevance of previously reported Ar-Ar data and to obtain a more detailed picture of the metamorphic evolution, it is planned to apply a multimethod geochronological approach (Rb-Sr, Sm-Nd, U-Pb) that will provide improved age constraints for refinement of palintectonic reconstructions and in-depth understanding of the metamorphic events associated with convergence between Arabia and Eurasia. Emphasis will be placed on answering the following questions: (1) What are the exact ages recorded by the HP/LT rocks and the amphibolites? (2) Are there any regional age variations? (3) Are these rocks time-equivalent to similar occurrences exposed elsewhere in Iran (e.g. the Makran area) and/or Oman? (4) What is the structural position of the mélanges within the larger frame of the SW Iranian plate margin? The new data will be used to develop a more detailed temporal framework of the paleotectonic evolution and has the potential to advance significantly the understanding of the geodynamic evolution of the Zagros orogen.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Iran
• Participating Person: Dr. Hadi Shafaii Moghadam