Abstract

BERMUDEZ, Mauricio Alberto  and  FLORES-FERRIN, Marlene. Applications of fission-track thermochronology in Venezuela: Current status, perspectives and integrative approaches. Bol. geol. [online]. 2019, vol.41, n.3, pp.175-200.  Epub Sep 30, 2019. ISSN 0120-0283.  https://doi.org/10.18273/revbol.v41n3-2019009.

Fission-Track Thermochronology (FTT) is based on the radioactive decay by spontaneous nuclear fission of 238U atoms. These are present in accessory minerals such as apatite, zircon, and titatine contained in various types of rocks. The spontaneous fission produces damage, known as fission-track, to the crystalline structure of minerals. These tracks are short linear structures of ca. 14-18 µm and between 1-4 microns of diameter and become preserved when crossing certain isotherms (depending on the mineral species), but generally in ranges below 300°C. The range of applications of FTT is very wide and includes research in the field of: a) archaeology (dating of vessels, fossils, paleo-fire); b) tectonic-thermal evolution of geologically complex areas; c) climate, tectonics, and surface processes, and their interactions; and d) the thermal evolution of main oil basins. Since its foundation in 1995, the Laboratory of Thermochronology in the Central University of Venezuela (established by Petróleos de Venezuela SA - PDVSA) has supported much research throughout the country applying this technique and especially in the region of the Venezuelan Andes. In this paper, we present a review of research developed in Venezuela based on FTT, discussing fields of high potential for future applications, and challenging pending to solve.

Keywords : Thermochronology; fission-track; applications in Venezuela; tectonics; climate; exhumation..

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