Sources and Timescales of Fluid Flow: Gold Deposit Generation during Metamorphism, Abitibi Sub-province, Canada

The Abitibi Sub-province extends from Timmins, ON to Val d’Or, QC and contains gold deposits with equivocal genesis, derived from either magmatic or metamorphic processes. The largest of the gold lode deposits precipitated at paleotemperatures and paleopressures indicative of depths 8-12 km below the surface. Metal-rich fluid flow at these depths through structurally deformed rocks during mountain building events is likely the responsible mechanism for precipitation of gold ore, thus a model more preferential to the metamorphic scenario. Detailed field (& mine) mapping and isotopic characterization of the structurally deformed ore-hosted rocks will allow us to fingerprint the responsible process, determining the source and timing of the metal-rich fluid flow. A partnership with Goldcorp inc. provides the access and resources necessary to constrain these important gold-generating processes. The Pamour and Hoyle Pond mines will be our natural laboratories where Goldcorp can benefit by gaining access to highly skilled researchers, analytical equipment, and new gold genesis data in a timely manner. Furthermore, since the Pamour and Hoyle Pond mines are active, the research will have immediate influences on mining progress.

Faculty Supervisor:

Dr. David Schneider

Student:

Jonathan Bachtel

Partner:

Goldcorp Inc.

Discipline:

Geography / Geology / Earth science

Sector:

Mining and quarrying

University:

University of Ottawa