Mineralogy, Chemistry, Weathering and Application of Serpentinite

Dear Colleagues,

Serpentinites are rocks that have been thoroughly studied by scholars and researchers from a multitude of perspectives, such as mineralogy, geochemistry, tectonics, and natural resources. This is due to serpentinization being one of the most valuable fluid–rock alteration processes on Earth that enhances crucial roles in various geological processes, such as subduction processes, and provides valuable information about the processes occurring in the Earth's mantle. In addition, it serves a key purpose in the CO₂ capture process through natural carbonation reactions, which occur during serpentinization or hydrothermal alterations, and in their potential connection to the origin of life in hydrothermal vents and "black smokers" in mid-oceanic ridges. They are present on almost all continents, forming large massifs and belts. From a natural resources’ standpoint, these rocks have significant prospects as they can form important ore deposits of several metals, such as chromium, nickel, or cobalt, either as lateritic deposits or sulphides or even talc. They were also widely used in the production of asbestos from the mineralization of chrysotile, leading to serious health issues—such as mesothelioma or lung cancer—due to the possible risks associated with their manipulation. On the other hand, their use as ornamental rocks dates back to ancient times. They were highly valued and employed by practically all civilizations, including Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, Hindus, Aztecs, and Mayans. Examples of their use can be found in historical buildings all around the world. In Europe, their utilization experienced a boom, especially during the Renaissance, with numerous examples in Spain and Italy. Furthermore, serpentinite is currently one of the most sought-after dimension stones due to its unmatched beauty and is known (incorrectly) as “green marble” in the trade market. For this purpose or for other industrial uses, such as in the aggregates sector or civil engineering, the determination of their mineralogical, geochemical, physical, and mechanical properties becomes crucial due to the high variability in their properties caused by numerous influencing factors.

Therefore, considering the broad spectrum of these rocks in the field of research, this Special Issue is proposed to encompass all types of papers on numerous topics involving serpentinites. This includes their mineralogical and geochemical characterization using novel techniques, the role of serpentinites in regional geological processes, their association with mineral resources, their industrial applications as dimension stones (both historical and current) as well as aggregates, and their connection with health problems arising from their asbestos content.

Dr. Rafael Navarro
Dr. Roberto Visalli
Dr. Rosalda Punturo
Dr. Giovanna Rizzo
Guest Editors

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• serpentinite
• antigorite
• lizardite
• subduction
• dehydration
• CO₂ storage
• Ni-Co ores
• dimension stones
• heritage
• green marble
• asbestos
• ophiolite

Title: Hydrothermal carbonation and silicification of harzburgites and serpentinites in ophiolites: Geochemical and petrological comparison of listwaenites from Oman and Iran
Author: Nasir
Highlights: Hydrothermal alteration, serpentinites, listwaenites, ophiolite, Oman, Iran