Geochemistry of rutiles from metamorphic rocks of Asenitsa and Arda Units, Central Rhodope, Bulgaria – preliminary results

Abstract

We present new data on the geochemistry of rutiles from metamorphic rock of the Asenitsa and Arda Units, Central Rhodope Massif, Bulgaria. Trace elements in studied rutiles show large variations that depend on protolith type (metapelites and metabasites), metamorphic grade, the rock geochemistry and mineral association. Zr-in-rutile thermometry distinguishes the rutiles from both units with higher temperatures (650–750 °C) for the Arda Unit and lower temperatures (520–630 °C) for the Asenitsa Unit. The uranium content of most rutiles is too low (<0.5 ppm) for U-Pb dating.