Tectonophysics 662 (2015) 208–218

Contents lists available at ScienceDirect

Tectonophysics

journal homepage: www.elsevier.com/locate/tecto

Aeromagnetic study of the Hengshan–Wutai–Fuping region: Unraveling

a r t i c l e i n f o a b s t r a c t

Article history: An integrated crustal profile of the intervening Trans-North China Orogen (TNCO) is one of the key issues to un-
Received 30 December 2014 derstanding the tectonic evolution of the North China Craton. However, the existing geological studies focus only
Received in revised form 12 August 2015 on the surface-mapping based petrological, geochemical and structural analysis, but lack subsurface geophysical
Accepted 19 August 2015
evidence and thus make the crustal profile interpretations ambiguous. In contrast, the current geophysical data
Available online 29 August 2015
covers a very large-scale lithospheric mantle and fails to image the detailed structural pattern of the orogenic
Keywords:
crust. To achieve this goal, we present high-resolution aeromagnetic data for the Hengshan–Wutai–Fuping re-
North China Craton gion, the largest exposure of the central TNCO. The reduced-to-pole magnetic anomaly map firstly verifies the
Trans-North China Orogen regional tectonic subdivision that the high-grade metamorphic terranes (i.e. Hengshan and Fuping Complexes)
Aeromagnetic data are consistent with high-magnetic responses and long-wavelength anomalies, intervened by a low-grade terrane
Doubly-vergent orogenic wedge (Wutai Complex) characterized by low-magnetic responses and short-wavelength anomalies. 3D Euler
Orogenic crust profile deconvolution reveals that the tendencies of the clustered solutions show large consistence with the major struc-
tural pattern of the region which is characterized by a fan-shaped doubly-vergent orogenic wedge. Upward con-
tinuation further shows that the northwest part of the orogen yields a thicker crust and is most likely located
closer to the paleosubduction zone. The new aeromagnetic data, combined with structural, petrological
and metamorphic data indicate that an eastward-dipping subduction zone was most possibly active before the
collision of the Western and Eastern Blocks, leading to the formation of the TNCO and the final amalgamation
of the North China Craton.
© 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

1. Introduction model (Faure et al., 2007; Kusky, 2011a,b; Kusky and Li, 2003; Kusky
et al., 2007; Polat et al., 2005). These contrasting models generally rely
The Trans-North China Orogen (TNCO) is an N–S-trending, ~1200 km on the integration and interpretations of traditional outcropping lithol-
long, linear belt that formed through subduction and collision of the ogy, structural geometry, geochemistry and geochronology (e.g. Bai,
Eastern and Western Blocks, leading to the final amalgamation of the 1986; Guo et al., 1993; Kröner et al., 2005; Liu et al., 2002; Polat et al.,
North China Craton (NCC) during the assembly of the ca. 2.1–1.8 Ga su- 2005; Sun et al., 1992; Trap et al., 2008, 2009; Wan et al., 2006; Wang
percontinent Columbia (Fig. 1A; Zhao et al., 1998, 2001a,b, 2005; Kusky et al., 2004a,b; Wu and Zhong, 1998; Zhai et al., 1995; Zhang et al.,
and Li, 2003; Kusky et al., 2007; Faure et al., 2007; Santosh, 2010). In the 2007, 2009, 2012; Zhao et al., 2000a). Reconstruction of the tectonic
last decade, a number of tectonic models have been proposed for the framework is largely dependent on the assumptions that: (1) the sur-
formation of the TNCO. These are summarized by (Zhao and Cawood, face geology is representative of geology at different crustal depth;
2012 and references therein). Among these models, the direction and (2) the rock distribution and structures are consistent with those
of the initial subduction and final collision between the Eastern and on surface. However, these assumptions lack subsurface geophysical
Western Blocks is contentious. One school of scholars proposed an evidence and thus make the interpretations ambiguous.
east-dipping subduction model (Kröner et al., 2005, 2006; Zhao, 2001; To resolve this ambiguity, seismological data in the central NCC have
Zhao et al., 2001a), whereas others suggest a westward subduction been used to support a west-dipping ancient Paleoproterozoic litho-
sphere beneath the Western Block (e.g. Chen et al., 2008, 2009; Zheng
et al., 2009), which led to a most recently proposed tectonic model
⁎ Corresponding author at: Earth System Science Programme, The Chinese University of
Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territory, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Tel.: +852
also to favor a westward-directed subduction zone (Kusky, 2011a,b;
3943 3795; fax: +852 3942 0970. Santosh, 2010). However, these geophysical studies mainly focused
E-mail address: [email protected] (J. Zhang). on the identification and distribution of the lithospheric mantle in a

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.tecto.2015.08.025
0040-1951/© 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
 J. Zhang et al. / Tectonophysics 662 (2015) 208–218 209

Fig. 1. (A) Schematic tectonic map of China showing the major Precambrian cartons bounded by Phanerozoic fold belts. (B) Simplified tectonic map showing the distribution of metamor-
phic complexes in the Trans-North China Orogen (revised after Zhao et al., 2000a).

very large scale and failed to image the detailed structural pattern of depth estimation of the subsurface causative sources using an upward
the overlying orogenic crust. Moreover, recent geophysical data have continuation filtering method. The 3D Euler deconvolution algorithm
shown that the structures of the lithospheric mantle and asthenosphere (Reid, 2003; Reid et al., 1990; Thompson, 1982) provides quantitative
of the NCC have been significantly modified or reworked since the depth estimations from the gridded data and solutions falling closely
Mesozoic and thus may not represent the original geometry of the to two crustal-scale profiles are plotted to illustrate the geometry of
ancient lithosphere (Chang et al., 2012; Cheng et al., 2013; Jiang et al., major structures. The results of this study are discussed and compared
2013; Kusky et al., 2014). Therefore an integrated crustal profile with the recently published gravity and seismic data to constrain the
consisting of coupled surface geological and subsurface geophysical subsurface structures of the region. A synthetic combination of geophys-
elements throughout the TNCO can provide important information for ical data, surface structural data as well as petrological and metamor-
understanding the evolution of the orogen and testing the above con- phic data enables us to unravel an integrated crustal profile for the
troversial models. TNCO.
The aeromagnetic method is one of the best geophysical techniques
to delineate subsurface structures (Thompson, 1982; Jacobsen, 1987; 2. Geological setting of the HS–WT–FP region
Reid et al., 1990; Mushayandebvu et al., 2001; FitzGerald et al.,
2004;) from the shallowest crust down to the Curie depth of around The TNCO can be divided into high-grade gneiss and low-grade
20–30 km (e.g. Ross et al., 2006). A systematic combination between granite–greenstone complexes (Fig. 1B). Of these, the Hengshan–
structural and aeromagnetic data has been successfully applied in Fuping–Wutai (HS–WT–FP) region is a NE–SW trending linear belt
interpreting the crustal-scale profiles of the worldwide orogens (e.g. transecting the central orogen (Fig. 1B). Of particular significance is
Aitken and Betts, 2009; Al-Saud, 2013; Betts et al., 2003; Dufréchou the presence of two high-grade gneiss terranes (Fuping and Hengshan
et al., 2014; Stewart and Betts, 2010). In this contribution, we present Complexes) in the southeast and northwest respectively, separated by
the high-resolution aeromagnetic data for the Hengshan–Wutai–Fuping a low-grade granite–greenstone terrane (i.e. Wutai Complex) meta-
(HS–WT–FP) region, the largest exposure of the TNCO (Fig. 1B). A corre- morphosed up to amphibolite facies (Figs. 1B and 2).
lation between regional geology and total magnetic intensity anomaly The Hengshan Complex is subdivided into the discrete north and
(TMI) is first presented, with emphasis on interpreting large-scale south domains, which are separated by the sub-vertical E–W-trending
structures and terrane boundaries. This is followed by a qualitative Zhuajiafang ductile shear zone (Fig. 2). The northern Hengshan domain
210 J. Zhang et al. / Tectonophysics 662 (2015) 208–218

Fig. 2. Geological map of the Hengshan–Wutai–Fuping region, showing spatial relations of major litho-tectonic terranes and crustal-scale ductile shear zones (revised after Zhao et al.,
2000b; Liu et al., 2002).

is characterized by Neoarchean (2520–2475 Ma; Kröner et al., 2005) is characterized by foreland basin related sedimentary sequence that
tonalite–trondhjemite–granodiorite (TTG) gneisses with boundinaged deposited at ~ 1880 Ma (Liu et al., 2011a) and experienced multiple
high-pressure (HP) granulites and retrograded eclogites (Li and Qian, deformation at ~1850 Ma (Zhang et al., 2006a; Zhao et al., 2002a).
1991; O'Brien et al., 2005). The southern Hengshan domain is composed The Wutai Complex is bounded with the Fuping Complex along the
of Neoarchean (2513–2499 Ma; Wilde et al., 2004a) TTG gneisses with moderately SE-dipping Longquanguan ductile shear zone (Fig. 2). The
medium-pressure granulites, and Paleoproterozoic supracrustal rocks Fuping Complex comprises mainly Neoarchean (2520–2480 Ma; Guan
(Li and Qian, 1991; Tian, 1991). et al., 2002; Zhao et al., 2002a) TTG gneisses with medium-pressure
The Wutai Complex consists of Neoarchean (2560–2520 Ma; Wilde (MP) granulite, and Paleoproterozoic (2077–2024 Ma; Guan et al.,
and Zhao, 2005) to Paleoproterozoic (2176–2084 Ma; Wilde et al., 2002) Nanying paragneisses and supracrustal rocks which are exten-
2005) granitoid plutons and metamorphosed volcanic and sedimentary sively metamorphosed into amphibolite to granulite facies metamor-
rocks (e.g. Wilde et al., 2004b, 2005; Zhao et al., 2007; Fig. 2). The Wutai phism (Zhao et al., 2000b).
Complex has previously been termed the Wutai greenstone sequence Extensive geological mapping and structural analysis have been
and the Hutuo Group (Bai, 1986; Tian, 1991). The Wutai greenstone carried out in this region and have revealed that all the complexes had
sequence consists of Neoarchean (2530–2515 Ma; Wilde et al., 2004a) experienced multiple generations of deformation during the orogenesis
mafic to felsic volcanics, BIFs (banded iron formations), sandstone, of the TNCO (e.g. Bai, 1986; Tian, 1991; Trap et al., 2007, 2008; Zhang
siltstone and calc-silicate rocks, all of which are metamorphosed et al., 2007, 2009, 2012). These structural data provide important infor-
from greenschist facies to lower amphibolite facies (Zhao et al., mation for us to interpret the regional aeromagnetic anomaly (Fig. 3;
2001a). The unconformably overlying Paleoproterozoic Hutuo Group see text below).
 J. Zhang et al. / Tectonophysics 662 (2015) 208–218 211

Fig. 3. Reduced-to-pole total intensity of the aeromagnetic map of the HS–WT–FP region overlain by the major structures and litho-tectonic boundaries. The location of magnetic profiles in
Fig. 5 is also shown. Abbreviations: HS—Hengshan, DSZ—ductile shear zone, LQG—Longquanguan.

3. Aeromagnetic analysis of the HS–WT–FP region reflects the causative sources below an approximate depth of Z0/2
(Jacobsen, 1987). The upward continuation results show the variation
3.1. Methodology and data processing of major lithological bodies with increasing crustal depth. In this region,
we have upward continued the data to 5 km, 10 km and 30 km, to exam-
Aeromagnetic data used in this study covers the entire HS–WT–FP ine the magnetic sources below approximate depths of 2.5 km, 5 km and
area with latitudes between 38°N and 40°N and longitudes between 15 km accordingly (Fig. 4).
112°E and 115.5°E (Fig. 3). The total magnetic intensity (TMI) anomaly Three-dimensional (3D) Euler deconvolution was used to quantita-
comes from 19 airborne magnetic surveys conducted by the Aero Geo- tively determine the depths of the geological sources and illustrate
physical and Remote Sensing Centre (AGRS), Ministry of Land and subsurface structures of the region. This method is based on Euler's
Resources of China, between 1959 and 1993. In collaboration with homogeneity of anomaly field and has become popular because it
Paterson, Grant & Watson Limited (PGW) and GETECH for the China gives estimation on source depths without requiring the specific density
Aeromagnetic Mapping Project (CHAMP), the data were digitized, and magnetic susceptibility contrasts and assumes no geological model
recompiled and gridded with 1 km cell size and a common datum (e.g. Reid et al., 1990; Silva and Barbosa, 2003; Thompson, 1982). Euler
of 500 m above the topography defined by the USGS GTOPO30 world method uses a deconvolution window to search through the gridded
digital elevation model. region. An appropriate window size (normally the height is smaller
Reduction-to-the-Pole (RTP) was firstly applied to remove the than twice the width of the square window; Reid et al., 1990; Reid,
anomaly asymmetry caused by the inclined Earth's field so that the 2003) was selected and moved over the aeromagnetic anomaly to ob-
magnetic anomalies were relocated above the geological causative tain the sufficient solutions, by repeatedly solving the linear system of
bodies (Fig. 3). Euler's equations (Reid, 2003; Reid et al., 1990). Although the Euler
Based on the reduced-to-pole anomaly map, the data were an deconvolution method has the disadvantage that arbitrary sources
upward continuation to different elevations to filter the short wave- may produce errors in the depth estimation (e.g. Blakely, 1995; Ravat,
length anomalies caused by shallow source bodies and emphasize 1996), using optimum structural index (SI) in the calculation can
long-wavelength anomalies of deeper source bodies. Jacobsen (1987) yield the tightest clustered solutions, which are considered to be the
made a successful case for using upward continuation filtering as a most likely location of the geological sources (Table 1; Reid, 2003;
method for emphasizing anomalies from specific depth ranges. The FitzGerald et al., 2004). In this study, Euler solutions with a structural
magnetic anomaly with upward continuation to a height of Z0 largely index (SI) of 0 and 1 are of major interests, because they correspond
212 J. Zhang et al. / Tectonophysics 662 (2015) 208–218

Fig. 4. Upward-continuation for the HS–WT–FP aeromagnetic map. The location of major structures and terrane boundaries is also shown for reference. The level of upward-continuation Z
is: (A) Z = 5 km, (B) Z = 10 km, and (C) Z = 30 km.

to contact and dyke models (Table 1) that are mostly related to the mag- the entire Hengshan Complex and a broader area to the west (Fig. 3).
netic contrasts induced by faults, shear zones and lithological contacts The positive anomalies correspond to the underlying high-grade TTG
of the region. The geometry of the clustered solutions can be of geolog- gneisses, mafic granulites and amphibolites of igneous origin which
ical significance if it can be well linked to the regional-scale structures. generally contain considerable ferromagnetic minerals and thus show
(e.g. Al-Saud, 2013; Mushayandebvu et al., 2001; Uieda et al., 2014). high saturation magnetization of 1068 A/m and 686 A/m, respectively
Based on the gridded data, sufficient Euler solutions falling closely to (Liu et al., 2000). To the northwest, the Hengshan positive anomaly
two crustal-scale profiles were extracted to illustrate the continuity zone shows a sharp contact with an obvious negative anomaly zone
and geometry of the clustered solutions (i.e. Profiles 1 and 2 in Fig. 3). represented by a Cenozoic NE-trending fault-controlled basin filled
Major parameters for the window size and tolerance of positioning are with weak-magnetic sediments. Within the Hengshan Complex, the
listed in Table 2, and the filtered solutions with SI = 0 and 1 are plotted northern Hengshan shows a higher positive anomaly than the southern
along the two profiles shown in Fig. 5. Hengshan separated by the crustal scale sub-vertical E–W trending
Zhujiafang ductile shear zone (Fig. 3). The aeromagnetic anomaly of
3.2. Analytical results the Wutai Complex shows distinct low magnetic response except a se-
ries of NE-trending Z-shaped narrow zones that show a prominently
3.2.1. Aeromagnetic anomaly positive anomaly (Fig. 3). These anomalies coincide with the de-
The reduced-to-pole aeromagnetic anomaly of the HS–WT–FP re- formed Wutai greenstone sequence, which contain banded iron for-
gion is shown in Fig. 3. Overall the magnetic anomaly pattern is largely mations (BIFs) characterized by very high magnetic susceptibility.
consistent with the large-scale structures and terrane boundaries as re- The Hutuo Group is dominated by low-grade metamorphosed sedi-
vealed by previous studies (e.g. Bai, 1986; Tian, 1991; Trap et al., 2009; mentary rocks which have low susceptibilities and thus display a re-
Zhang et al., 2012). A NE-trending zone of positive anomalies covers gional low aeromagnetic signature (Fig. 3). Overlying on the Hutuo

Table 2
Table 1 Selected parameters for the window size and tolerance of positioning using Euler
Structural index (SI) of models for 3D Euler deconvolution deconvolution (FitzGerald et al., 2004; Reid, 2003).
(FitzGerald et al., 2004; Reid, 2003).
Grid size of the anomaly field: 1.0 km (square grid)
Model Magnetic SI
Window size: 5~15 grids
Sphere 3 Depth tolerance: 15~50%
Pipe 2 Horizontal tolerance: 50%
Thin dyke or Sill 1 Structural index (SI): 0, 1
Contact 0 Maximum depth accepted: 10~30 km
 J. Zhang et al. / Tectonophysics 662 (2015) 208–218 213

Fig. 5. 3D Euler solutions using SI = 0 and 1 (Reid, 2003). The filtered anomalies (curves) based on upward continuation is also shown for comparison. (A) Euler solutions for Profile 1,
(B) Euler solutions for Profile 2, and (C) published structural cross-section of the HS–WT–FP region on the basis of the surface field mapping and structural analysis (Zhang et al., 2012).

Group, the Paleozoic strata also have low magnetic response character- 1986) which are dominated by TTG gneisses and weakly magnetic
ized by a weakly magnetic rock assemblage of sandstone, siltstone and supracrustal rock assemblages (e.g. calc–silicate rocks and marbles;
marble (Fig. 3). Similar to the Hengshan Complex, the Fuping Complex Liu and Liang, 1997; Zhao et al., 2000b).
also shows a NE–SW trending positive anomaly, except the central
part which shows low magnetic anomalies with irregular local varia- 3.2.2. Upward continuation
tions (Fig. 3). This pattern could be related to the underlying discontinu- To study the causative bodies transiting downwards through the
ity of causative bodies or complicated lithologies and structures (Bai, upper crust (5 ~ 10 km) to the middle (10 ~ 15 km) or even the lower
214 J. Zhang et al. / Tectonophysics 662 (2015) 208–218

crust (15~20 km), the upward continuation was applied on reduced-to- 4. Discussion and conclusions
pole aeromagnetic data at levels of 5 km, 10 km and 30 km (Fig. 4),
which accordingly focus on the anomalies beneath the approximate 4.1. Reconstruction of an integrated crustal profile of the TNCO
depths of 2.5 km, 5 km and 15 km (Jacobsen, 1987). The magnetic
anomaly varies prominently in two aspects: In the past decades, extensive geological studies have led to the
consensus that the TNCO is most likely a modern-type continent-to-
(1) When the anomaly field is upward continued to 5–10 km, the continent (Himalayas-type) collisional orogen (e.g. Zhao et al., 1998),
NE-trending positive anomaly in the Hengshan and Fuping Com- which is characterized by: (1) dominant Neoarchean to Paleoproterozoic
plexes is rarely changed and remains continuous (Fig. 4A, B). In arc-related juvenile crust with minor reworked basement rocks (e.g. Liu
contrast, the originally Z-shaped magnetic contour of the Wutai et al., 2002, 2004, 2012d; Sun et al., 1992; Wang et al., 2004b); (2) linear
Complex shows a rapid attenuation in comparison to the unfil- structural belts defined by lithosphere-scale thrusts and shear zones
tered anomaly map (Fig. 4A, B). This is because the BIFs of the (e.g. Li and Qian, 1991; Trap et al., 2007, 2008, 2009, 2012; Wang
Wutai Complex show high frequency and short-wavelength et al., 2003; Zhang et al., 1994, 2007, 2009, 2012); (3) high-pressure
anomalies that are filtered rapidly with the higher continuation granulites and retrograded eclogites (e.g. Zhai et al., 1992; Zhai et al.,
(Fig. 5A, B). 1995; Guo et al., 1993, 1999, 2001, 2002; Guo and Zhai, 2001; Zhao
(2) With the upward continuation increasing to 30 km, the continu- et al., 2001b; Zhang et al., 2006b); (4) clockwise metamorphic P–T
ity of positive anomalies in the Fuping Complex is “broken”, paths involving nearly isothermal decompression (e.g. Zhao et al.,
whereas the positive anomaly pattern in the Hengshan Complex 2000a); and (5) syn-tectonic foreland basins (e.g. Faure et al., 2007;
is still continuous (Fig. 4C). It is inferred that the causative bodies Liu et al., 2011a,b, 2012a,b,c; Zhao et al., 2001a). To unravel the
(e.g. TTG gneisses and mafic granulites) in the Hengshan lithosphere-scale profile of this orogen, detailed field mapping and
Complex may have deeper “root” than that beneath the Fuping structural studies have been implemented in the key areas of the
Complex. orogen, including the HS–WT–FP region (e.g. Faure et al., 2007; Li
et al., 2010; Trap et al., 2007, 2009, 2012; Wang, 2009; Zhang et al.,
2007, 2009). Most recently, combining all of the previous structural
3.2.3. 3D Euler deconvolution data, Zhang et al. (2012) suggested that the structural framework of
In comparison with the upward continuation filtering method that the HS–WT–FP region is a fan-shaped orogenic wedge with double
supplies a qualitative estimation for the subsurface causative sources, vergence and thrusts (Fig. 5C). However, this interpretation only relies
3D Euler deconvolution provides quantitative depth estimation and on the surface-based structural mapping and whether the subsurface
tendency for the magnetic sources which are characterized by the clus- structures are consistent with the surface observations remains unclear.
tered solutions in both horizontal and vertical dimensions. Since this Therefore the validity of the above interpretation is whether the present
region has complicated lithological assemblages and has experienced TNCO lithosphere retains largely its original state. Although the existing
multiple deformations, using structural indices (SI = 0 and 1, i.e. con- geophysical data suggested that the North China Craton in particular the
tact and dyke-sill models; Reid, 2003; FitzGerald et al., 2004; Table 1) Eastern Block has been experiencing a large-scale lithospheric thinning
is the most suitable parameter to obtain the possible well-clustered event since Mesozoic (Kusky et al., 2014; Zhai et al., 2007; Zhu et al.,
Euler solutions. Meanwhile, upward continuation has revealed that 2011, 2012), most recent gravity data has suggested that the TNCO con-
the Wutai Complex has high-amplitude, short-wavelength anomalies tains approximately 120 km thick lithosphere and retains a lighter oro-
that are not evident after the data is continued upward over 5 km genic root of an ancient craton (Li and Yang, 2011). A combination of
(Fig. 4A). If the upward continuation is too high (e.g. N 6 ~ 10 km), gravity modeling and high-resolution seismic data also clearly showed
most solutions in the Wutai Complex will be filtered. Meanwhile, that the crust and lithospheric mantle gradually thickened from the
Euler solutions at shallow levels (i.e. b 5 km) are sensitive to the eastern boundary of the TNCO to the interior of the Western Block (Li
noise and show a scattered pattern. Although the Euler solution depths et al., 2011; Zheng et al., 2009). In consistence with the gravity data,
should be the same before and after upward continuation, it turns aeromagnetic data of this study reveals that the HS–WT–FP region re-
out that repeating upward continuation for each round of Euler tains largely an integrated orogenic crust (Fig. 3). Moreover, magnetic
deconvolution calculation is an effective way to suppress the noise anomaly (Fig. 3) supports the previous tectonic subdivision that the
and make solutions more clustered. Therefore in order to retain the HS–WT–FP region is represented by the high-grade Hengshan and
clustered solutions of the Wutai Complex, we extracted five groups Fuping gneissic complexes (i.e. high magnetic response with long-
of solutions within 5 km (Euler solutions corresponding with upward wavelength anomaly) intervened by the low-grade Wutai Complex
continuation of 250 m, 2 km, 3 km, 4 km and 5 km) of the region (i.e. low magnetic response with short-wavelength anomaly; Bai,
and compiled those solutions falling closely (b5 km in width) to the 1986; Tian, 1991; Zhao et al., 2000a). 3D Euler deconvolution further
two crustal-scale profiles (Fig. 5A, B). As shown in the profiles modeled implies that the geometry of the clustered solutions (Fig. 5A, B) show
by SI = 0, several tightly clustered solutions dominate the profile and large consistence with the major structures of this region which is char-
are consistent with the major faults of the region (Figs. 3 and 5C). This acterized by a fan-shaped orogenic wedge (e.g. Li et al., 2010; Zhang
interpretation is further supported by the Euler solutions modeled et al., 2012; Fig. 5C). Our results combined with available structural,
by SI = 1, in which the fault-generated clustered solutions are all petrological, metamorphic and gravity data allow us to reconstruct a
scattered in the dyke-sill model (Fig. 5A, B). For the profiles modeled crustal profile for the TNCO (Fig. 6). The orogen is characterized by a
by SI = 1, most of the solutions display well-clustered tendency wher- doubly-vergent orogenic wedge which includes fore-thrusts in the fore-
ever the subsurface of the old high-grade metamorphic bodies are land, variable crustal-scale ductile shear zones as terrane boundaries
present (refer to profile locations in Fig. 3), except the areas where the and back-thrusts in the hinterland area, which are featured and well re-
younger unconsolidated sediments exist, the Euler solutions show corded in the Himalayan-type collisional orogen (e.g. the Alps, Escher
scattered distribution (SI = 1; Fig. 5A, B). For both profiles, the well- and Beaumont, 1997; Bucher et al., 2003; Lüschen et al., 2006; the Appa-
clustered solutions show large consistence with the major structures lachians, Lin et al., 1994; Castonguay and Tremblay, 2003; Fig. 6).
or tectonic boundaries among different complexes (Fig. 3), most of
which show an overall doubly-vergent tendency (Fig. 5A, B). This 4.2. Polarity of subduction
doubly verging geometry is largely consistent with the most recently
proposed large-scale structural cross-section of the region (Fig. 5C; As mentioned in the introductory section, most existing tectonic
Zhang et al., 2012). models for the formation and evolution of the TNCO (e.g Faure et al.,
 J. Zhang et al. / Tectonophysics 662 (2015) 208–218 215

Fig. 6. A schematic integrated crustal profile for the Trans-North-China Orogen, based on the available structural, petrological and geochemical data, as well as the new geophysical data of
this study.

2007; Kusky, 2011a,b; Santosh, 2010; Trap et al., 2007; Wang, 2009; profile for the TNCO, which is not fully but at least compatible with
Zheng et al., 2009) favor a westward-dipping polarity of subduction. some important geological features (Fig. 6):
These models are based on two lines of evidence: (1) the top-to-SE
thrusting and shearing structures in the TNCO (Faure et al., 2007; (1) Generally (ultra)high-pressure metamorphism in an orogenic
Trap et al., 2007, 2008, 2012), and (2) seismic images interpreting belt can occur either in rocks that are part of the down-going
a west-dipping old remnant lithosphere beneath the Western Block slab or in material that has been accreted and thickened to the
(Fig. 1A; Chen et al., 2008, 2009; Zheng et al., 2009). However, base of the overlying plate (Miyashiro et al., 1979). In any case,
determining the polarity of subduction in ancient orogen is quite (ultra)high-pressure rocks in an orogenic belt generally occur
challenging because they have experienced multiple generations close to the subducting slab or the trench (Miyashiro et al.,
of deformation and were reworked by the late tectonic events. Late- 1979; Santosh and Kusky, 2010). In the central TNCO, high-
stage deformation such as nappe refolding and back-thrusting (e.g. pressure granulites and retrograded eclogites are only exposed
the Alps; Bucher et al., 2003) may severely modify pre-existing in the northern Hengshan domain which is also considered to
large-scale structural and tectonic patterns. Most recent structural represent the lower crust of the orogen (O'Brien et al., 2005;
data have shown that the TNCO is characterized by a doubly-vergent Zhao et al., 2001b). Aeromagnetic data of this study have also re-
orogenic wedge with opposite thrusting and shearing structures vealed that the northern Hengshan domain has deeper crustal
(Fig. 5C; Zhang et al., 2007, 2012), not a uniform top-to-SE kinematics root than the Fuping Complex (Fig. 4B). This indicates that the
as previously suggested (Faure et al., 2007; Trap et al., 2008). Such Hengshan Complex was most probably located closer to the
a doubly-vergent orogenic wedge can be theoretically explained by paleosubduction zone (i.e. foreland area) where the overlying
both the westward- and eastward-directed subduction models. On crust is considerably thicker than the other places (Fig. 6). The
the other hand, although seismic imaging has revealed that there are Fuping Complex was most likely located in the hinterland area
two west-dipping low-velocity zones beneath the central and western (Zhang et al., 2009) and pervasively experienced the back-
part of the North China Craton (e.g. Zheng et al., 2009), the interpre- thrusting deformation (Zhang et al., 2012). This scenario is large-
tation of a westward subduction model is still questionable. Low- ly compatible with an eastward dipping slab model (Kröner
velocity zones can be either remnant lithosphere or partially melted et al., 2005; Zhao, 2001; Zhao et al., 1998, 2000a).
lower crust or upper mantle due to the upwelling asthenosphere (2) A large amount of geochemical data demonstrates that the TNCO
(e.g. Tian et al., 2009). This is the same with the eastern segment of contains 2650–2850 Ma old continental remnants which were
the seismic profile of Zheng et al. (2009), in which a similar strong derived from the Eastern Block (Guan et al., 2002; Kröner et al.,
low-velocity zone adequately extends eastwards beneath the Bohai 2005; Wilde et al., 1997, 2004a; Xia et al., 2006; Zhao et al.,
Bay basin. Moreover, the structures of the lithospheric mantle and 2002a). Hafnium (Hf) and Neodymium (Nd) isotopic data also
asthenosphere beneath the craton have been pervasively modified suggest that the rocks of the TNCO have affinities to those of
during the Mesozoic lithospheric thinning event (Zhao et al., 2011; the Eastern Blocks, but are in contrast with that of the Western
Chang et al., 2012; Jiang et al., 2013; Zhu et al., 2011, 2012; Cheng Block (Xia et al., 2009). This also provides evidence that the
et al., 2013; Kusky et al., 2014), and thus it may not be reliable to sim- TNCO was initially developed as a magmatic arc on the western
ply use the present dipping orientation of low-velocity zones margin of the Eastern Block (Fig. 6).
to represent the ancient subduction zone in Paleoproterozoic (Zheng
et al., 2009). The seismic imaging is also non-unique and requires Apparently the TNCO contains some complicated geological features
coupled petrological and geochemical evidence of the region. Al- that are not consistent with the above model and associated interpreta-
though seismic imaging can provide very good images for the subsur- tions. Forthcoming structural, petrological and geochronological studies
face structures in a lithospheric scale, it fails to illustrate the details in coupling forward thermodynamic modeling in different metamorphic
a crustal scale (Tian, et al., 2009). Therefore, the above two lines of evi- terranes are crucial for understanding the evolution of the TNCO (Trap
dence supporting a west-dipping subduction model are not entirely et al., 2012). In particular, structurally deciphering the evolutionary
convincing. Determining the subduction polarity requires an integrated history of the crustal-scale ductile shear zones (e.g. Zhujiafang and
structural, metamorphic, petrological, geochemical and geophysical Longquanguan ductile shear zones) and their roles in exhuming the
data. Based on the existing geological data and the new aeromagnetic lower crust during the orogeny may help to further constrain the
data of this paper, we attempted to reconstruct an integrated crustal major controversies.
216 J. Zhang et al. / Tectonophysics 662 (2015) 208–218

4.3. Conclusions Escher, A., Beaumont, C., 1997. Formation, burial and exhumation of basement nappes at
crustal scale: a geometric model based on the Western Swiss–Italian Alps. J. Struct.
Geol. 19, 955–974.
Aeromagnetic data of the Hengshan–Wutai–Fuping region provides Faure, M., Trap, P., Lin, W., Monie, P., Bruguier, O., 2007. Polyorogenic evolution of the
important complementary geophysical data which enables us to un- Paleoproterozoic Trans-North China Belt, new insights from the Lüliangshan–
Hengshan–Wutaishan and Fuping massifs. Episodes 30, 1–12.
ravel the subsurface lithological and structural information. This leads FitzGerald, D., Reid, A., McInerney, P., 2004. New discrimination techniques for Euler
us to further refine the crustal profile of the Trans-North China Orogen. deconvolution. Comput. Geosci. 30, 461–469. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cageo.
The overall orogen is characterized by a fan-shaped doubly-vergent 2004.03.006.
Guan, H., Sun, M., Wilde, S.A., Zhou, X.H., Zhai, M.G., 2002. SHRIMP U–Pb zircon geochro-
orogenic wedge, of which the northwest part might locate closer to nology of the Fuping Complex: implications for formation and assembly of the North
the subduction zone and yield thicker crust and associated high- China Craton. Precambrian Res. 113, 1–18.
pressure rocks. Although an initially eastward-dipping subduction and Guo, J.H., Zhai, M.G., 2001. Sm–Nd age dating of high-pressure granulites and amphibolite
from Sanggan area, North China craton. Chin. Sci. Bull. 46, 106–111.
collision model is compatible with many important geological data, it
Guo, J.H., Zhai, M.G., Zhang, Y.G., 1993. Early Precambrian Manjinggou high-pressure
is still inconsistent with the large-scale geophysical data in particular granulites melange belt on the southern edge of the Huaian Complex, North China
the seismic imaging. A synthesis of high-resolution geophysical and Craton: geological features, petrology and isotopic geochronology. Acta Petrol. Sin.
geological data as well as forward geodynamic modeling along one 9, 329–341.
Guo, J.H., Shi, X., Bian, A.G., Xu, R.H., Zhai, M.G., Li, Y.G., 1999. Pb isotopic compositions of
same lithosphere-scale profile is highly demanded in the future to feldspar and U–Pb age of zircons from early Proterozoic granites in the Sanggan area,
essentially resolve the dispute of subduction polarity in the TNCO. North China Craton: metamorphism, crustal melting and tectonothermal events. Acta
Petrol. Sin. 15, 199–207.
Guo, J.H., Wang, S.S., Sang, H.Q., Zhai, M.G., 2001. Ar-40–Ar-39 age spectra of garnet
Author contributions porphyroblast: implications for metamorphic age of high-pressure granulite in the
North China Craton. Acta Petrol. Sin. 17, 436–442.
Guo, J.H., O'Brien, P.J., Zhai, M.G., 2002. High-pressure granulites in the Sangan area, North
J. Zhang and G.C. Zhao wrote the main manuscript and prepared China Craton: metamorphic evolution, P–T paths and geotectonic significance.
Figs. 1, 2 and 6. J. Zhang and W.L. Shen compiled the aeromagnetic J. Metamorph. Geol. 20, 741–756.
raw data, carried out quantitative analyses and generated Figs. 3–5. Jacobsen, B.H., 1987. A case for upward continuation as a standard separation filter for
potential-field maps. Geophysics 52, 1138–1148.
S.Z. Li and M. Sun raised critical comments on the geological interpreta- Jiang, M.M., Ai, Y.S., Chen, L., Yang, Y.J., 2013. Local modification of the lithosphere beneath
tion and polished the manuscript. the central and western North China Craton: 3-D constraints from Rayleigh wave
tomography. Gondwana Res. 24, 849–864.
Kröner, A., Wilde, S.A., Li, J.H., Wang, K.Y., 2005. Age and evolution of a late Archaean to
Acknowledgments early Palaeozoic upper to lower crustal section in the Wutaishan/Hengshan/Fuping
terrain of northern China. In: Wilde, S.A., Zhao, G.C. (Eds.), Late Archean to
Paleoproterozoic evolution of the North China CratonJ. Asian Earth Sci. 24, 577–595.
We thank Peter G. Betts for his constructive comments which
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jseaes.2004.01.001.
improved the early version of the manuscript. We are grateful for Kröner, A., Wilde, S.A., Zhao, G.C., O'Brein, P.J., Sun, M., Liu, D.Y., Wan, Y.S., Liu, S.W., Guo,
the thoughtful and constructive reviews from the journal editor Tim J.H., 2006. Zircon geochronology and metamorphic evolution of mafic dykes in the
Hengshan Complex of northern China: evidence for late Palaeoproterozoic extension
Kusky, journal reviewer Richard Blakely and an anonymous reviewer.
and subsequent high-pressure metamorphism in the North China Craton. Precambrian
This research was financially supported by the National Science Founda- Res. 146, 45–67. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.precamres.2006.01.008.
tion of China with grants (41190075 and 41102121) and a Hong Kong Kusky, T.M., 2011a. Comparison of results of recent seismic profiles with tectonic models
RGC GRF grant (7069/12P). This is a contribution to Comparative tectonic of the North China Craton. J. Earth Sci. 22 (2), 250–259. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/
s12583-011-0178-5.
and dynamic analysis of cratons, orogens, basins, and metallogeny: A spe- Kusky, T.M., 2011b. Geophysical and geological tests of tectonic models of the North
cial volume to honor the career of Brian F. Windley. China Craton. Gondwana Res. 20, 26–35.
Kusky, T.M., Li, J.H., 2003. Paleoproterozoic tectonic evolution of the North China Craton.
J. Asian Earth Sci. 22, 23–40. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S1367-9120(03)00071-3.
References Kusky, T.M., Li, J.H., Santosh, M., 2007. The Paleoproterozoic North Hebei Orogen: North
China Craton's Collisional Suture with the Columbia Supercontinent. Gondwana
Aitken, A.R.A., Betts, P.G., 2009. Multi-scale integrated structural and aeromagnetic Res. 12, 4–28. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.gr.2006.11.012.
analysis to guide tectonic models: an example from the eastern Musgrave Province, Kusky, T.M., Windley, B.F., Wang, L., Wang, Z.S., Li, X.Y., Zhu, P.M., 2014. Flat slab subduc-
Central Australia. Tectonophysics 476, 418–435. tion, trench suction, and craton destruction: comparison of the North China,
Al-Saud, M.M., 2013. The role of aeromagnetic data analysis (using 3D Euler Wyoming, and Brazilian cratons. Tectonophysics 630, 208–221.
deconvolution) in delineating active subsurface structures in the west central Arabian Li, J.H., Qian, Q.L., 1991. A study on the Longquanguan shear zone in the northern part of
shield and the central Red Sea, Saudi Arabia. Arab. J. Geosci. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/ the Taihang Mountains. Shanxi Geol. 6, 17–29 (in Chinese).
s12517-013-1068-1. Li, Y.Y., Yang, Y.S., 2011. Gravity data inversion for the lithospheric density structure be-
Bai, J., 1986. The Precambrian crustal evolution of the Wutaishan area. In: Bai, J. (Ed.), neath North China Craton from EGM 2008 model. Phys. Earth Planet. Inter. 189,
The Early Precambrian Geology of Wutaishan. Tianjin Science and Technology 9–26. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.pepi.2011.09.004.
Press, Tianjin, pp. 376–383 (in Chinese with English abstract). Li, S.Z., Zhao, G.C., Wide, S.A., Zhang, J., Sun, M., Zhang, G.W., Dai, L.M., 2010. Deformation
Betts, P.G., Valenta, R.K., Finlay, J., 2003. Evolution of the Mount Woods Inlier, northern history of the Hengshan–Wutai–Fuping Complexes: implications for the evolution of
Gawler Craton, Southern Australia: an integrated structural and aeromagnetic analy- the Trans-North China Orogen. Gondwana Res. 18, 611–631.
sis. Tectonophysics 366, 83–111. Li, Y.Y., Yang, Y.S., Kusky, T.M., 2011. Lithospheric Structure in the North China Craton
Blakely, R.J., 1995. Potential Theory in Gravity and Magnetic Applications. Cambridge constrained from Gravity Field Model (EGM 2008). J. Earth Sci. 22, 260–272. http://
University Press, Cambridge, p. 464. dx.doi.org/10.1007/s12583-011-0179-4.
Bucher, S., Schmid, S.M., Bousquest, R., Fügenschuh, B., 2003. Late-stage deformation in Lin, S.F., van Staal, C.R., Dube, B., 1994. Promontory-promontory collision in the Canadian
a collisional orogen (Western Alps): nappe refolding, back-thrusting or normal Appalachians. Geology 22, 897–900.
faulting? Terra Nova 15, 109–117. Liu, S.W., Liang, H.H., 1997. Metamorphism of Al-rich gneisses from the Fuping Complex,
Castonguay, S., Tremblay, A., 2003. Tectonic evolution and significance of Silurian — Early Taihang Mountain, China. Acta Petrol. Sin. 13, 303–312 (in Chinese with English
Devonian hinterland-directed deformation in the internal Humber zone of the southern abstract).
Quebec Appalachians. Can. J. Earth Sci. 40, 255–268. http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/E02-045. Liu, Q.S., Gao, S., Liu, Y.S., 2000. Magnetic structure of the continental crust as revealed by
Chang, L.J., Wang, C.Y., Ding, Z.F., 2012. Upper mantle anisotropy beneath North China the Wutai-Jining crustal cross-section in the North China Craton. J. Geodyn. 29, 1–13.
from shear wave splitting measurements. Tectonophysics 522, 235–242. Liu, S.W., Pan, Y.M., Li, J.H., Li, Q.G., Zhang, J., 2002. Geological and isotopic geochemical
Chen, L., Wang, T., Zhao, L., Zheng, T., 2008. Distinct lateral variation of lithospheric thick- constraints on the evolution of the Fuping Complex, North China Craton. Precambrian
ness in the Northeastern North China Craton. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 267, 56–68. Res. 117, 41–56.
Chen, L., Cheng, C., Wei, Z., 2009. Seismic evidence for significant lateral variations in Liu, S.W., Pan, Y.M., Xie, Q.L., Zhang, J., Li, Q.G., 2004.
lithospheric thickness beneath the central and western North China Craton. Earth Liu, C.H., Zhao, G.C., Sun, M., Zhang, J., Yin, C.Q., Wu, F.Y., Yang, J.H., 2011a. U–Pb and Hf
Planet. Sci. Lett. 286, 171–183. isotopic study of detrital zircons from the Hutuo Group of the Wutai Complex: con-
Cheng, C., Chen, L., Yao, H.J., Jiang, M.M., Wang, B.Y., 2013. Distinct variations of crustal straints on the timing of collision between the Eastern and Western Blocks, North
shear wave velocity structure and radial anisotropy beneath the North China Craton China Craton. Gondwana Res. 20, 106–121.
and tectonic implications. Gondwana Res. 23, 25–38. Liu, C.H., Zhao, G.C., Sun, M., Wu, F.Y., Yang, J.H., Yin, C.Q., Leung, Y.H., 2011b. U–Pb and Hf
Dufréchou, G., Harris, L.B., Corriveau, L., 2014. Tectonic reactivation of transverse base- isotopic study of detrital zircons from the Yejishan Group of the Lüliang Complex:
ment structures in the Grenville orogen of SW Quebec, Canada: insights from gravity constraints on the timing of collision between the Eastern and Western Blocks,
aeromagnetic data. Precambrian Res. 241, 61–84. North China Craton. Sediment. Geol. 236, 129–140.
 J. Zhang et al. / Tectonophysics 662 (2015) 208–218 217

Liu, C.H., Zhao, G.C., Sun, M., Zhang, J., Yin, C.Q., 2012a. U–Pb geochronology and Hf isotope mafic dikes from the southern Taihang Mountains and implications for the
geochemistry of detrital zircons from the Zhongtiao Complex: constraints on the ca.1800 Ma event of the North China Craton. Precambrian Res. 135, 55–77. http://dx.
tectonic evolution of the Trans-North China Orogen. Precambrian Res. 222–223, doi.org/10.1016/j.precamres.2004.07.005.
159–172. Wang, Z.H., Wilde, S.A., Wang, K.Y., Yu, L.J., 2004b. A MORB-arc basalt-adakite association
Liu, C.H., Zhao, G.C., Sun, M., Zhang, J., Yin, C.Q., He, Y.H., 2012b. Detrital zircons U–Pb in the 2.5 Ga Wutai greenstone belt: late Archean magmatism and crustal growth in
dating, Hf isotope and whole-rock geochemistry from the Songshan Group in the the North China Craton. Precambrian Res. 131, 323–343. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.
Dengfeng Complex: constraints on the tectonic evolution of the Trans-North China precamres.2003.12.014.
Orogen. Precambrian Res. 192–195, 1–15. Wilde, S.A., Zhao, G.C., 2005. Archean to Palaeoproterozoic evolution of the North
Liu, C.H., Zhao, G.C., Sun, M., Liu, F.L., Zhang, J., Yin, C.Q., 2012c. Zircons U–Pb and Lu–Hf China Craton. J. Asian Earth Sci. 24, 519–522. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jseaes.
isotopic and whole-rock geochemical constraints on the Gantaohe Group in the 2004.06.004.
Zanhuang Complex: implications for the tectonic evolution of the Trans-North Wilde, S.A., Cawood, P., Wang, K.Y., 1997. The Relationship and Timing of Granitoid Evolu-
China Orogen. Lithos 146–147, 80–92. tion with Respect to Felsic Volcanism in the Wutai Complex, North China Craton. Pro-
Liu, S.W., Zhang, J., Li, Q.G., Zhang, L.F., Wang, W., Yang, P.T., 2012d. Geochemistry and ceedings of the 30th IGC. Precambrian Geol. Metamorph. Petrol. 17, pp. 75–88.
U–Pb zircon ages of metamorphic volcanic rocks of the Paleoproterozoic Lüliang Wilde, S.A., Zhao, G.C., Wang, K.Y., Sun, M., 2004a. First precise SHRIMP U–Pb zircon ages
Complex and constraints on the evolution of the Trans-North China Orogen, North for the Hutuo Group, Wutaishan: further evidence for the Palaeoproterozoic amal-
China Craton. Precambrian Res. 222–223, 173–190. gamation of the North China Craton. Chin. Sci. Bull. 49, 83–90.
Lüschen, E., Borrini, D., Gebrande, H., Lammerer, B., Millahn, K., Neubauer, F., Nicolich, R., Wilde, S.A., Cawood, P.A., Wang, K.Y., Nemchin, A., Zhao, G.C., 2004b. Determining Pre-
2006. TRANSALP — deep crustal Vibroseis and Explosive seismic profiling in the Eastern cambrian crustal evolution in China: a case-study from Wutaishan, Shanxi Province,
Alps. Tectonophysics 414, 9–38. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.tecto.2005.10.014. demonstrating the application of precise SHRIMP U–Pb geochronology. In: Malpas,
Miyashiro, A., Aki, K., Celas Sengor, A.M., 1979. Orogeny. Joh Wiley, New York. J., Fletcher, C.J., Aitchison, J.C., Ali, J. (Eds.), Aspects of the tectonic evolution of
Mushayandebvu, M.F., van Driel, P., Reid, A.B., Fairhead, J.D., 2001. Magnetic source China. Geol. Soc. Spec. Publ., London 226, pp. 5–26.
parameters of two-dimensional structures using extended Euler deconvolution. Wilde, S.A., Cawood, P.A., Wang, K.Y., Nemchin, A.A., 2005. Granitoid evolution in the
Geophysics 66, 814–823. late Archean Wutai Complex, North China Craton. J. Asian Earth Sci. 24, 597–613.
O´Brien, P.J., Walte, N., Li, J.H., 2005. The petrology of two distinct granulite types in the http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jseaes.2003.11.006.
Hengshan Mts, China, and tectonic implications. J. Asian Earth Sci. 24, 615–627. Wu, C.H., Zhong, C.T., 1998. The Paleoproterozoic SW–NE collision model for the central
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jseaes.2004.01.002. North China Craton. Prog. Precambrian Res. 21, 28–50 (in Chinese).
Polat, A., Kusky, T., Li, J.H., Fryer, B., Kerrich, R., Patrick, K., 2005. Geochemistry of Neoarchean Xia, X.P., Sun, M., Zhao, G.C., Wu, F.Y., Xu, P., Zhang, J.H., Luo, Y., 2006. U–Pb and Hf isotopic
(ca. 2.55–2.50 Ga) volcanic and ophiolitic rocks in the Wutaishan greenstone belt, cen- study of derital zircons from the Wulashan Khondalites: constraints on the evolution
tral orogenic belt, North China craton: implications for geodynamic setting and conti- of the Ordos Terrane, Western Block of the North China Craton. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett.
nental growth. Bull. Geol. Soc. Am. 117, 1387–1399. http://dx.doi.org/10.1130/B25724.1. 241, 581–593. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.epsl.2005.11.024.
Ravat, D., 1996. Analysis of the Euler method and its applicability in environmental Xia, X.P., Sun, M., Zhao, G.C., Wu, F.Y., Xie, L.W., 2009. U–Pb age and Hf isotopic study of de-
magnetic investigations. J. Environ. Eng. Geophys. 1, 229–238. trital zircons from the Lüliang Khondalite, North China Craton, and their tectonic im-
Reid, A.B., 2003. Euler magnetic structural index of a thin bed fault. Geophysics 68. plications. Geol. Mag. 146, 701–716. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S0016756809006396.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1190/1.1598117 (1255 pp.). Zhai, M.G., Guo, J.H., Yan, Y.H., Han, X.L., Li, Y.G., 1992. Discovery and preliminary study of
Reid, A.B., Allsop, J.M., Granser, H., Millett, A.J., Smerton, I.W., 1990. Magnetic interpreta- the Archean high-pressure granulites in the North China. Sci. China. Ser. D. 12,
tion in three dimensions using Euler deconvolution. Geophysics 55, 80–91. 1325–1330.
Ross, H.E., Blakely, R.J., Zoback, M.D., 2006. Testing the use of aeromagnetic data for the Zhai, M.G., Guo, J.H., Li, H.H., Yan, Y.H., Li, Y.G., 1995. Discovery of retrograded eclogites in
determination of Curie depth in California. Geophysics 71, 51–59. the Archaean North China Craton. Chin. Sci. Bull. 40, 1590–1594.
Santosh, M., 2010. Assembling North China Craton within the Columbia supercontinent: Zhai, M.G., Fan, Q.C., Zhang, H.F., Sui, J.L., Shao, J., 2007. Lower crustal processes leading
the role of double-sided subduction. Precambrian Res. 178, 149–167. to Mesozoic lithospheric thinning beneath eastern North China: underplating, re-
Santosh, M., Kusky, T., 2010. Origin of paired high pressure–ultrahigh-temperature placement and delamination. Lithos 96, 36–54. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.lithos.
orogens: a ridge subduction and slab window model. Terra Nova 22, 35–42. 2006.09.016.
Silva, J.B.C., Barbosa, V.C.F., 2003. 3D Euler deconvolution: theoretical basis for automati- Zhang, J.S., Dirks, H.G.M., Passchier, C.W., 1994. Extensional collapse and uplift in a
cally selecting good solutions. Geophysics 68, 1962–1968. polymetamorphic granulite terrain in the Archean and Paleoproterozoic of north
Stewart, J.R., Betts, P.G., 2010. Implications for Proterozoic plate margin evolution from China. Precambrian Res. 67, 37–57.
geophysical analysis and crustal-scale modeling within the western Gawler Craton, Zhang, J., Zhao, G.Z., Li, S.Z., Sun, M., Liu, S.W., Xia, X.P., He, Y.H., 2006a. U–Pb zircon dating
Australia. Tectonophysics 483, 151–177. of the granitic conglomerates of the Hutuo Group: affinities to the Wutai granitoids
Sun, M., Armstrong, R.L., Lambert, R.St.J., 1992. Petrochemistry and Sr, Pb and Nd isotopic and significance to the tectonic evolution of the Trans-North China Orogen. Acta
geochemistry of Early Precambrian rocks, Wutaishan and Taihangshan areas, China. Geol. Sin. 80, 886–898.
Precambrian Res. 56, 1–31. Zhang, J., Zhao, G.C., Sun, M., Wilde, S.A., Li, S.Z., Liu, S.W., 2006b. High-pressure mafic gran-
Thompson, D.T., 1982. EULDPH: a new technique for making depth estimates from mag- ulites in the Trans-North China Orogen: tectonic significance and age. Gondwana Res. 9,
netic data. Geophysics 47, 31–37. 349–362.
Tian, Y.Q., 1991. Geology and Gold Mineralization of Wutai-Hengshan Greenstone Belt. Zhang, J., Zhao, G.C., Li, S.Z., Sun, M., Liu, S.W., Wilde, S.A., Kröner, A., Yin, C.Q., 2007. De-
Shanxi Science and Technology Press, Taiyuan, pp. 1–25 (in Chinese with English formation history of the Hengshan Complex: implications for the tectonic evolution
abstract). of the Trans-North China Orogen. J. Struct. Geol. 29, 933–949. http://dx.doi.org/10.
Tian, Y., Zhao, D.P., Sun, R., Teng, J.W., 2009. Seismic imaging of the crust and upper 1016/j.jsg.2007.02.013.
mantle beneath the North China Craton. Phys. Earth Planet. Inter. 172, 169–182. Zhang, J., Zhao, G.C., Li, S.Z., Sun, M., Wilde, S.A., Liu, S.W., Yin, C.Q., 2009. Polyphase defor-
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.pepi.2008.09.002. mation of the Fuping Complex, Trans-North China Orogen: structures, SHRIMP U–Pb
Trap, P., Faure, M., Lin, W., Bruguier, O., Monie, P., 2007. Late Paleoproterozoic (1900– zircon ages and tectonic implications. J. Struct. Geol. 31, 177–193. http://dx.doi.org/
1800 Ma) nappe stacking and polyphase deformation in the Hengshan-utaishan area: 10.1016/j.jsg.2008.11.008.
implications for the understanding of the Trans-North-China Belt, North China Craton. Zhang, J., Zhao, G.C., Li, S.Z., Sun, M., Liu, S.W., 2012. Structural and aeromagnetic studies
Precambrian Res. 156, 85–106. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.precamres.2007.03.001. of the Wutai Complex: implications for the Tectonic Evolution of the Trans-North
Trap, P., Faure, M., Lin, W., Bruguier, O., Monie, P., 2008. Contrasted tectonic styles for the China Orogen. Precambrian Res. 222– 223, 212–229. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.
Paleoproterozoic evolution of the North China Craton. Evidence for a ~2.1 Ga thermal precamres.2011.08.00.
and tectonic event in the Fuping Massif. J. Struct. Geol. 30, 1109–1125. http://dx.doi. Zhao, G.C., 2001. Palaeoproterozoic assembly of the North China Craton. Geol. Mag. 138,
org/10.1016/j.jsg.2008.05.001. 87–91.
Trap, P., Faure, M., Lin, W., Monie, P., Meffre, S., Melleton, J., 2009. The Zanhuang Massif, the Zhao, G.C., Cawood, P.A., 2012. Precambrian geology of China. Precambrian Res. 222–223,
second and eastern suture zone of the Paleoproterozoic Trans-North China Orogen. 13–54.
Precambrian Res. 172, 80–98. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.precamres.2009.03.011. Zhao, G.C., Wilde, S.A., Cawood, P.A., Lu, L.Z., 1998. Thermal evolution of the Archaean
Trap, P., Faure, M., Lin, W., Breton, N.L., Monie, P., 2012. The Paleoproterozoic evolution of basement rocks from the eastern part of the North China Craton and its bearing on
the Trans-North China Orogen: toward a synthetic tectonic model. Precambrian Res. tectonic setting. Int. Geol. Rev. 40, 706–721.
222–223, 191–211. Zhao, G.C., Cawood, P.A., Wilde, S.A., Lu, L.Z., 2000a. Metamorphism of basement rocks
Uieda, L., Oliveira Jr., V.C., Barbosa, V.C.F., 2014. Geophysical tutorial: Euler deconvolution of in the Central Zone of the North China Craton: implications for Palaeoproterozoic
potential-field data. Lead. Edge 44, 448–450. http://dx.doi.org/10.1190/tle33040448.1. tectonic evolution. Precambrian Res. 103, 55–88.
Wan, Y.S., Wilde, S.A., Liu, D.Y., Yang, C.X., Song, B., Yin, X.Y., 2006. Further evidence Zhao, G.C., Wilde, S.A., Cawood, P.A., Lu, L.Z., 2000b. Petrology and P–T path of the Fuping
for ∼ 1.85 Ga metamorphism in the central Zone of the north China Craton: mafic granulites: implications for tectonic evolution of the central zone of the North
SHRIMP U–Pb dating of zircons from metamorphic rocks in the Lushan area. China Craton. J. Metamorph. Geol. 18, 375–391.
Gondwana Res. 9, 189–197. Zhao, G.C., Wilde, S.A., Cawood, P.A., Sun, M., 2001a. Archean blocks and their boundaries
Wang, Z.H., 2009. Tectonic evolution of the Hengshan-Wutai-Fuping complexes and in the North China Craton: lithological, geochemical, structural and P–T path con-
its implication for the Trans-North China Orogen. Precambrian Res. 170, 73–87. straints and tectonic evolution. Precambrian Res. 107, 45–73.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.precamres.2008.11.003. Zhao, G.C., Cawood, P.A., Wilde, S.A., Lu, L.Z., 2001b. High-pressure granulites (retrograded
Wang, Y.J., Fan, W.M., Zhang, Y., Guo, F., 2003. Structural evolution and 40Ar/39Ar dating eclogites) from the Hengshan Complex, North China Craton: petrology and tectonic
of the Zanhuang metamorphic domain in the North China Craton: constraints on implications. J. Petrol. 42, 1141–1170.
Paleoproterozoic tectonothermal overprinting. Precambrian Res. 122, 159–182. Zhao, G.C., Wilde, S.A., Cawood, P.A., Sun, M., 2002a. SHRIMP U–Pb zircon ages of the
Wang, Y.J., Fan, W.M., Zhang, Y.H., Guo, F., Zhang, H., Peng, P., 2004a. Geochemical Ar40/Ar39 Fuping Complex: implications for accretion and assembly of the North China Craton.
geochronological and Sr–Nd isotopic constraints on the origin of Palaeoproterozoic Am. J. Sci. 302, 191–226.
218 J. Zhang et al. / Tectonophysics 662 (2015) 208–218

Zhao, G.C., Cawood, P.A., Wilde, S.A., Sun, M., 2002b. A review of the global 2.1–1.8 Ga from seismic observations. The International Conference on Craton Formation and De-
orogens: implications for a pre-Rodinian supercontinent. Earth-Sci. Rev. 59, 125–162. struction (ICCFD), Beijing, Abstract.
Zhao, G.C., Sun, M., Wilde, S.A., Li, S.Z., 2005. Late Archean to Palaeoproterozoic evolution Zheng, T.Y., Zhao, L., Zhu, R.X., 2009. New evidence from seismic imaging for subduction
of the North China Craton: key issues revisited. Precambrian Res. 136, 177–202. during assembly of the North China craton. Geology 37, 395–398.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.precamres.2004.10.002. Zhu, R.X., Chen, L., Wu, F.Y., Liu, J.L., 2011. Timing, scale and mechanism of the destruction
Zhao, G.C., Kröner, A., Wilde, S.A., Sun, M., Li, S.Z., Li, X.P., Zhang, J., Xia, X.P., He, Y.H., 2007. of the North China Craton. Sci. China 54, 789–797.
Lithotectonic elements and geological events in the Hengshan–Wutai–Fuping belt: a Zhu, R.X., Xu, Y.G., Zhu, G., Zhang, H.F., Xia, Q.K., Zheng, T.Y., 2012. Destruction of the
synthesis and implications for the evolution of the Trans-North China Orogen. Geol. North China Craton. Sci. China 55, 1565.
Mag. 144, 753–775. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S0016756807003561.
Zhao, L., Zheng, T.Y., Chen, L., Ai, Y.S., He, Y.M., Lu, G., 2011. Lithosphere–asthenosphere in-
teractions and geodynamic cause of the North China Craton destruction: constraints