Earth Science Frontiers ›› 2012, Vol. 19 ›› Issue (3): 130-137.

• Article • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Threedimensional geochemical distribution patterns in regolith over a concealed gold deposit in arid desert terrains.

  

  1. 1. Institute of Geophysical and Geochemical Exploration, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, Langfang 065000, China 2. Key Laboratory for Applied Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, Langfang 065000, China 3. Institute of Exploration Technique, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, Langfang 065000, China
  • Received:2012-02-10 Revised:2012-04-15 Online:2012-05-25 Published:2012-05-25

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Abstract:

In recent years, deeppenetrating geochemistry has been proven to be effective in search for concealed deposits in arid desert terrains. However, we have a little understanding of the dispersion patterns. In this study, Air Reverse Circulation (ARC) drilling technology is used to revealed the 3D distribution patterns of elements in regolith sediments over Jinwozi gold deposit, which is covered by tens of meters of regolith sediments, in order to trace the migration track and to understand the migration mechanisms. 3D distribution maps of elements generated show that (1) anomalies continuatively occur in the different depths of regolith sediments over the ore body, that (2) gold tend to be enriched in top and bottom horizon, and depleted in middle horizon in vertical direction, that (3) the anomalous distribution in bottom is restricted in the lowest places at the interface of sediments and bedrocks, and that (4) laterally the anomalous extension in the bottom is narrow within a width of tens of meters, and that in top soils is much wider and extends to several kilometers.

Key words:  threedimensional distribution patterns, coverage region, element migration, concealed gold deposits

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