Theoretical predictions vs environmental observations on
serpentinization fluids: Lessons from the Samail ophiolite in Oman
Abstract
Thermodynamic calculations provide valuable insights into the reactions
that drive the profound fluid transformations during serpentinization,
where surface fluids are transformed into some of the most reduced and
alkaline fluids on Earth. However, environmental observations usually
deviate from thermodynamic predictions, especially those occurring at
low temperatures where equilibrium is slowly reached. In this work, we
sampled and analyzed >100 low-temperature (<40°C)
fluids from the Samail ophiolite in Oman to test thermodynamic
predictions with environmental observations. Additional simulations
(e.g., fluid mixing, mineral leaching) were also conducted to
account for deviations from equilibrium expectations. Type 1
circumneutral (pH 7 to 9) fluids result from fluid interactions with
completely serpentinized rocks common in the shallow subsurface. Type 2
hyperalkaline (pH >11) fluids approach equilibrium with
diopside, and serpentine and brucite actively forming during advanced
stages of serpentinization. We also investigated fluids with pH values
of 9 to 11 to test whether these fluids are indicative of intermediate
stages of serpentinization or mixing between the above end-member
fluids. Fluids at intermediate stages of serpentinization and fluids
derived from mixing can have the same pH, but the former have
considerably lower dissolved Si that can be attributed to concomitant
subsurface serpentinization and mineral carbonation processes. Overall,
this work demonstrates that predicted and measured compositions of
serpentinization-derived fluids can be successfully reconciled using a
combination of equilibrium and fluid-transport simulations. This work
substantiates these calculations as useful tools in exploring
serpentinization reactions in deep subsurface aquifers on Earth as well
as those beyond our own planet.