Deformation-induced decomposition of enstatite in mantle peridotite and its role in partial melting and chromite ore formation

Resumo

Deformed orthopyroxene grains are studied in detail in mantle peridotite. It is shown that deformation of enstatite is accompanied by its decomposition with the formation of low-temperature phases (pargasite, Fe-rich olivine) and restite represented by depleted enstatite, forsterite, and small newly formed chrome spinellide grains. The role of plastic deformation in initiation of partial melting of peridotite and in the formation new chrome spinellide grains is discussed.