Crustal Imaging and Characterization Team

Geochemical and isotope studies of the evolution of ore deposits and reimbursable technology transfer

Stable isotope, fluid inclusion, active gas chemistry, noble gas isotope, and solute chemistry techniques are exceptionally powerful tools in the study of fundamental processes operating during the evolution of ore deposits. Some of these techniques, particularly stable isotopes, are also powerful in the study of the processes that occur during the entire life cycle of ore deposits from genesis to natural destruction and post mining remediation. In this project the full potential of each of these techniques is developed and their combined potential applied in an integrated fashion in multidisciplinary studies to acquire essential knowledge about fundamental problems of the genesis of ore deposits. Furthermore, stable isotope techniques are applied to studies of the entire life cycle of mineral resources. This life cycle includes assessments, exploration, genesis, natural and anthropogenic modification, ore processing, remediation and reclamation.

Project Objectives

The objective of the project is to facilitate the applications of the full potential of integrated stable (C, H, N, O, S), noble gas isotope, and fluid inclusion gas and solute chemistry techniques to multidisciplinary studies of fundamental processes that occur during the evolution of ore deposits. In addition the full potential of stable isotope technology is applied to studies of fundamental processes over the entire life cycle of mineral resources from genesis and discovery to mineral recycling and disposal. The fundamental knowledge acquired by these studies is closely integrated with the current development of genetic and geoenvironmental models of ore deposits by other Mineral Resources Program (MRP) projects. The knowledge acquired in these studies is not specific to mineral resources and can also be applied to a broad spectrum of societally relevant issues that interface with current investigations by MRP scientists. Among these issues are the relation between hydrothermal alteration on volcanoes and landslides, the controls of cyanide degradation in ore processing, accidental spills and heaps undergoing closure, and the relation of life cycle of mineral resource process to water quality and human health. In addition this knowledge can be applied to the study of ecosystems and animal ecology.

Relevance & Impact

The combined fluid inclusion, active gas, noble gas isotope, and stable isotope laboratories are a major MRP asset that offers a unique and exceptionally powerful combination of tools to study processes over the entire live cycle of ore deposits. The integration of these analytical laboratory capabilities within a single project is without precedent and results in unique scientific capabilities. These laboratories now have the instrumental capability to meet the need of a substantial n number of MRP projects in addition to reimbursable Geologic Discipline (GD), Water Resources Discipline (WRD), Biological Resources Discipline (BRD) and outside-funded projects. The project provides critical new knowledge to advance the understanding of ore genesis and the evolving art of mineral and geoenvironmental assessments. These studies are required to insure that such assessments are conducted at the highest level of scientific integrity. The studies conducted by the project will play a major role in the development and direction of other Program projects. The knowledge gained from the study of the life cycle of ore deposits can have a major impact on societally relevant issues in hazards, ecosystems, global climate change, ground water quality, and human health. Increasingly, BRD scientists are requesting stable isotope data support and transfer of stable isotope geochemical technology for studies of ecosystems and animal ecology.

Project Chief:

Accessibility FOIA Privacy Policies and Notices

U.S. Department of the Interior | U.S. Geological Survey
URL: http://crustal.usgs.gov
Page Contact Information: CICT Webmaster
Page Last Modified: