Search

The genesis of the Zhaxikang Sb-Pb-Zn-Ag deposit remains controversial. Three different geological environments have been proposed to model mineralization: a hot spring, a magmatic-hydrothermal fluid, and a sedimentary exhalative (SEDEX) overprinted by a hot spring. Here, we present the electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) and Fe-Zn isotopic data (microsampled) of four samples from the first pulse of mineralization that show annular textures to constrain ore genesis. The Zn/Cd ratios from the EPMA data of sphalerite range from 296 to 399 and overlap the range of exhalative systems. The δ56Fe values of Mn-Fe carbonate and δ66Zn values of sphalerite gradually decrease from early to late stages in three samples. A combination of the EPMA and isotopic data shows the Fe-Zn contents also have different correlations with δ66Zn values in sphalerite from these samples. Rayleigh distillation models this isotope and concentration data with the cause of fractionation related to vapour-liquid partitioning and mineral precipitation. In order to verify this Rayleigh distillation model, we combine our Fe-Zn isotopic data with those from previous studies to establish 12 Fe-Zn isotopic fractionation models. These fractionation models indicate the δ56Fei and δ66Zni values (initial Fe-Zn isotopic compositions) of the ore-forming system are in the range of -0.5‰​​ ~−1‰ and -0.28‰​ ~0‰, respectively. To conclude, the EPMA data, Fe-Zn isotopic characteristics, and fractionation models support the SEDEX model for the first pulse of mineralization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The alteration zone patterns have been identified based on the SWIR data at Demingding. • The relationship between Pos2200 and compositions of white mica has been demonstrated by EPMA and determined the subspecies in the ore and barren zone. • We predicted the center of hydrothermal/mineralization based on the spatial variations of the white mica SWIR scalars. The Demingding Cu–Mo deposit, found in the eastern Gangdese metallogenic belt in China, has a significant exploration potential. Detailed field studies coupled with short-wavelength infrared (SWIR) spectroscopy and electron probe micro analyses (EPMA) identified a total of 15 alteration minerals such as white mica group minerals, chlorite, kandite, and smectite groups. The study also discovered the spatial distribution of alteration zone patterns, including phyllic, propylitic, and intermediate argillic alterations. Furthermore, variations were observed in the Al-OH absorption position (Pos2200) of the white mica group with variable Al-Si-Fe-Mg content. Most of the white micas in the ore zone were muscovitic series, whereas the barren zone contained phengitic series micas. Some micas have undergone a transition to illite due to low-temperature alteration overprinting. The western part of the deposit exhibited lower Pos2200, higher SWIR-IC, and higher Dep2200 values, implying an intense phyllic alteration and higher paleotemperatures. These characteristics suggest that the area is in close proximity to the hydrothermal center and fluid channel. Therefore, it was identified as an exploratory target for buried copper ore bodies. The SWIR spectra of the white mica group can be used for exploration in other similar porphyry deposits. Under acidic conditions, shorter Pos2200 and higher SWIR-IC can be used as indicators for hydrothermal or mineralization centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]