Developments in Geochronology and Dating of Shear Zone Deformation

Dear Colleagues,

Considerable advances in our understanding of crustal and tectonic evolution in modern geology have been made possible by the performance of detailed geochronology and isotope geochemistry. In recent decades, it has become evident that evolutionary models, which are foundational to such established geodynamic views, need to be constrained by the timing and rates of crustal deformation, itself mostly manifested by shear zones and shear zone networks. The task of determining the timing and duration of shear zone deformation is hindered greatly by unreliable dating systems, by complex deformation histories, and by uncertain field relations amongst the units used to characterize regional displacement structures. In recent years, a renewed interest in the application of multiple in situ mineral-dating techniques that are closely linked to deformation; this is in addition to traditional methods of indirectly constraining deformation timing. Additionally, the careful characterization of the textures of grain microstructures in conventional systems such as zircon has revealed complex zoning patterns related to deformation, and these can affect the ages obtained. Important contributions to the analysis of such problems are widely found in the literature, and this Special Issue of Minerals welcomes further studies by eminent researchers in the field. The added knowledge and evidence of such studies will enable us to determine the timing and duration of major deformation events that characterize regional structures in provinces worldwide. Thus, they are invaluable for continued improvements in our understanding of tectonic and crustal evolution.

Dr. Carlos Fernando Ávila
Prof. Dr. Marcos Egydio Silva
Guest Editors

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• shear zone
• geochronology
• in-situ dating techniques
• deformation
• tectonics