Application of the MELTS program to the fractional crystallization of low-alumina alkaline magma on Jeju Volcanic Island, Korea

Research on Jeju Volcanic Island, Korea, reveals that the fractional crystallization of low-alumina alkaline magma most likely occurred at pressures between 0.2 and 0.1 GPa and under oxygen fugacities close to the FMQ buffer, with an H₂O content of 0.5 wt.% best matching natural rock evolution trends. The study applied MELTS, a computational tool for modeling magmatic processes, across varying pressures (2.0–0.1 GPa), oxygen fugacities (FMQ-3 to FMQ+3), and H₂O contents. While MELTS demonstrated effectiveness in predicting temperature, pressure, and other crystallization factors, its limitations—such as spinel overestimation and lack of hydrous mineral experiments—highlight the need for complementary analyses when assessing magmatic processes. This work provides critical insights into the volcanic evolution of Jeju Island.

Le, H. Y., Chang, C., & Yun, S.-H. (2024). Application of the MELTS program to the fractional crystallization of low-alumina alkaline magma on Jeju Volcanic Island, Korea. Geoscience Letters, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40562-024-00360-8