Petrochronology of Zircon: Recent Development, Data Interpretation, and Implications

Dear Colleagues,

High-precision geochronological and petrochronological techniques, such as U–Pb dating, Lu–Hf analysis, and in situ trace element and isotopic measurements of zircon, are essential for determining the timing and rates of geological processes. Recent advances in analytical instruments, improved precision, and detailed micro-analysis of internal zircon domains have significantly enhanced our ability to extract robust chronological and geochemical information from single grains.

In the past few years, notable methodological progress—such as simultaneous multi-isotope acquisition, refined data-reduction workflows, improved imaging-based domain characterization, and the integration of computer-based modeling—has greatly strengthened zircon-based petrochronology. These new approaches provide unprecedented resolution for reconstructing complex magmatic and metamorphic histories and for improving the interpretation of zircon growth, recrystallization, and isotopic systematics.

This Special Issue focuses exclusively on recent methodological and conceptual innovations in zircon petrochronology, particularly developments emerging within the last five years. We welcome contributions on the following:

• New analytical or instrumental techniques for zircon;
• Advances in U–Pb, Lu–Hf, and trace element zircon petrochronology;
• Improvements in data processing, modeling, and interpretation;
• Applications that demonstrate how these innovations refine our understanding of magmatic and metamorphic processes.

Dr. Achim Herrmann
Dr. Hafiz U. Rehman
Guest Editors

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