Application of single-grain OSL to date quartz xenocrysts within a basalt flow, San Francisco volcanic field, northern Arizona, USA
Document Type
Article
Journal/Book Title/Conference
Quaternary Geochronology
Publisher
Elsevier
Publication Date
2-9-2012
Abstract
Previous age estimates for SP Crater in the SanFrancisco volcanicfield in northern Arizona, USA, suggested it erupted 70 ka; however its non-weathered geomorphic character places it as one of the youngest volcanic vents in the region. Samples of quartz xenocrysts were extracted from the SP Crater basalt flows and dated using single-grain dating. Analysis of the luminescence signals indicate they were dominated by medium- to slow-decaying OSL components, which can produce age underestimates if not removed. In order to reduce their contribution, the fast component was deconvolved from the initial OSL signal, a high-temperature bleach (blue-green LED exposure at 280 °C) was added at the end of each measurement cycle and elevated cut heat temperatures were used. Fading tests and crushing experiments indicate no dependence on recovered equivalent dose values. Resultant single-grain quartz xenocryst OSL ages are consistent with the geomorphic character of SP Crater and suggest it erupted 5.5–6 ka. Revision of the age of SP Crater has implications for the eruption recurrence interval in the region and assessment of volcanic hazards in nearby communities.
Collaborative research with a colleague and undergraduate. Publication describes a novel application of OSL to date a cinder cone by dating quartz xenocrysts within the basalt flow.
Recommended Citation
Rittenour, Tammy M.; Riggs, N. R.; and Hamlin, L. E., "Application of single-grain OSL to date quartz xenocrysts within a basalt flow, San Francisco volcanic field, northern Arizona, USA" (2012). Geosciences Faculty Publications. Paper 336.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/geology_facpub/336
