Micro-structural characterization of hydrothermal phyllosilicates associated with precious metals

Hydrothermal gold deposits contribute a noteworthy fraction of the world’s gold endowment. These deposits are characterized by the widespread occurrence of hydrothermal alteration formed during the interaction of hydrothermal fluids with the wall rocks, which induces important mineralogical and geochemical changes to the original rock.
The main objective of this research is the detail characterization of hydrothermal minerals in close spatial and genetic relation to precious metals (gold and silver) in various hydrothermal gold occurrences on the island of Newfoundland (Canada). Such an objective will be achieved by integrating an innovative combination of state-of-the-art analytical techniques and mineral modelling at Texas Tech University. Analytical techniques include X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). XRD will provide information on the crystal structure and mineralogy of the samples, while SEM will allow observations on the surface topography and morphology of studied minerals.
The outcome data will be a crucial part of my PhD research, since it will give valuable information on the processes related to the occurrence of gold and silver in Newfoundland.

Faculty Supervisor:

Graham Layne

Student:

Partner:

Texas Tech University

Discipline:

Earth science

Sector:

Education

University:

Memorial University of Newfoundland

Program: