Rapid subsolidus reaction between jadeite and spodumene in the presence of trace H₂O

Abstract

We experimentally studied the equilibration mechanism of jadeite (Jd: NaAlSi₂O₆) and spodumene (Spd: LiAlSi₂O₆) at 700°C for 72 hours and 800°C for 48 hours at 2 GPa. Our obaservations indicate that the mineral replacement via dissolution-reprecipitation rather than a diffusive Na-Li exchange occurred. Moreover, even trace amount of water may work as a solvent and enhance rapid mineral replacement at subsolidus conditions.