研究人员通过分析克马德克岛弧附近海底火山玻璃样本，揭示了地球黄金的形成机制[1]。GEOMAR亥姆霍兹基尔海洋研究中心的研究团队采集了66个火山玻璃样本，检测到每克岩石中黄金浓度高达6纳克[1]。克马德克岛弧位于新西兰北部海域，毗邻哈夫槽，是这项研究的关键地点[1]。
研究发现，在俯冲带下方，含水地幔反复熔融过程导致硫化矿物分解，释放黄金进入上升岩浆[1]。这一多阶段熔融过程是岛弧地区黄金富集的关键驱动因素[1]。领导此项研究的Christian Timm博士表示，"含水地幔在岛弧下方的熔融是黄金富集的关键驱动力"[1]，并补充道，"我们实际上是在观察黄金生命周期的第一步"[1]。这项研究成果于2026年7月29日发表[1]。
Researchers have uncovered the mechanism behind gold formation in Earth's crust by analyzing volcanic glass samples collected near the Kermadec Arc. The study reveals that repeated melting of water-rich mantle beneath subduction zones causes sulfide minerals to break down, releasing gold that is then carried upward into rising magma. According to Dr. Christian Timm, "Our research shows that hydrous mantle melting beneath island arcs is a key driver of gold enrichment."[1]
The investigation examined 66 volcanic glass samples from the Kermadec Arc region and the adjacent Havre Trough off New Zealand's northern coast, with analysis revealing gold concentrations as high as 6 nanograms per gram of rock.[1] Dr. Timm emphasized the significance of these findings, stating that "We are effectively looking at the first step in the life cycle of gold."[1] This multi-stage melting process occurring in the mantle beneath island arcs represents a critical driver of gold accumulation in these geologically active zones, with results published on July 29, 2026.[1]