Unravelling the protracted U-Pb zircon geochronological record of high to ultrahigh temperature metamorphic rocks: Implications for provenance investigations

The assessment of detrital zircon age records is a key method in basin analysis, but it prone to several biases that may compromise accurate sedimentary provenance investigations. High ultrahigh temperature (HT-UHT) metamorphism (especially if T > 850 °C) herein presented as natural cause bias studies based on U-Pb ages, since from rocks submitted these extreme and often prolonged conditions frequently yield protracted, apparently concordant, geochronological records. Such spreading can result disturbance the primary system, likewise (re)crystallization processes during multiple and/or metamorphic events. In this contribution, available data Archean, Neoproterozoic Palaeozoic HT-UHT rocks, acquired by different techniques (SIMS LA-ICP-MS) showing distinct compositions, are reassessed demonstrate modes distributions unclear geological meaning. As consequence, induce misinterpretations analyses, particularly metamorphosed under such conditions. To evaluate presence metamorphism-related record, we suggest workflow for acquisition interpretation, combining multi-proxy approach with: (i) situ dating coupled with Hf analyses retrieve isotopic composition sources, (ii) integration petrochronological investigation typify fingerprints event. proposed validated one theoretical example allowing better characterization maximum depositional tectonic setting basin. Our allows appraisal imposed resulting disturbances underwent and, finally, suggests ways overcome issues.