Slope-specific lateritization of garnet–sillimanite–gneiss cuestas in Matale area, Sri Lanka

This study investigates the uncommon formation of laterite from garnet–sillimanite–gneiss (grt-sil-gn) in the Matale area, a hilly region of Sri Lanka. Geographically, laterites typically form in lowland wet zone of the country, but this research explores their genesis in a unique, less-studied hilly environment. Employing a comprehensive approach combining field observations, petrographic studies, and chemical mapping, we elucidate the contrasting mechanisms of lateritization on the dip slope and scarp slope of a cuesta landform. Our findings reveal a significant influence of weathering conditions and supergene processes on laterite formation. Dip slopes experience intense supergene activity due to deeper groundwater, promoting downward fluid flow and mineral dissolution. Conversely, scarp slopes exhibit isovolumetric leaching with reduced infiltration and enhanced fluid interaction, leading to lateritization along fractures in partially weathered grt-sil-gn. Intense supergene processes on the dip slopes involve downward fluid migration and mineral dissolution, aided by a deep groundwater table. In contrast, scarp slopes exhibit laterite formation through isovolumetric leaching in areas with reduced water infiltration and heightened fluid interaction. Evidence of lateritization includes the formation of gibbsite, hematite, or goethite, attributed to fluctuating oxic and anoxic conditions caused by fluid variations. Additionally, kaolinite patches emerged on the exterior of fully altered garnet, resulting from the weathering products and leachates of quartz, sillimanite, and feldspar. This research emphasizes the critical role of external factors, such as weathering and supergene processes, alongside parent rock composition, in influencing laterite formation. It significantly advances our understanding of lateritization in grt-sil-gn, particularly in hilly areas with lower rainfall compared to usual laterite formation zones.