Uptake and transport of heavy metals by heated seawater: A summary of the experimental results

In general, the chemistry of seawater experimentally reacted with basalt is in accord with the observed chemistry of the 350°C vent waters from 21°N on the East Pacific Rise. Experiments at 350°C, 500 bar, and a water/rock ratio of ≤10 reproduce most of the major components in the vent waters, in particular the low Mg and SO₄ and high Si0₂, Ca, and K. In comparison with the vent waters however the experimental fluids are deficient in H⁺ and heavy metals. Experiments with natural and evolved seawater (Mg and SO₄ depleted) at ≥400 C and 500 bars or 375°C and ~375 bars under rock-dominated conditions more closely reproduce the vent-water chemistry.