Fluid–Mineral Interactions: Controlling Coupled Mechanisms of Reaction, Mass Transfer and Deformation

Abstract Fluid–rock interaction has profound effects on the dynamics of lithosphere. This Perspectives article describes catalytic water kinetics mineral reactions and strength rocks in terms coupled dissolution precipitation mechanisms a macro- nano-scale. The length scale coupling between steps depends fluid composition at mineral-fluid interface also differential stress. Stress-induced mass transport, dependent generation porosity by reactions, results dissolution-precipitation creep as principal mechanism rock deformation heterogeneous distribution infiltration into dry, strong deep crust leads to weak within strong, stressed host possibility significant local variations pressure. are discussed recrystallisation whereby transport most favourable nucleation sites determine texture resultant assemblages. Metamorphic differentiation is natural consequence under deviatoric stress similar may apply general pattern formation rocks.