The mineralogy and the isotope geochemistry of the Nopal I uranium deposit, Chihuahua, Mexico

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Date
2014-02-14
Authors
Saucedo Roacho, Alba Luz
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Abstract

The Nopal I uranium deposit located in northern Chihuahua Mexico has been the focus of study for the past 40 years. Information regarding to its formation and evolution through time demonstrate that it has a very complex history. Uranium mineralization occurs in two different styles: uranium oxide uraninite and a secondary phases of silicates (uranophane, soddyite) and oxyhydroxides (schoepite and ianthinite). Petrographic studies have revealed that uraninite is found encapsulated within the host rock (ignimbrites) as fine grains while secondary uranium minerals are filling fractures and micro-veins. Chemical dates from the uranium minerals give a wide range from 0 to 611 Ma; many of the ages may be overestimated since the host rock is 44 Ma. U/Pb isotopic studies demonstrate the presence of common Pb, and after a correction was applied, a new range of dates from 1< to 7 Ma was obtained.

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Geology, Isotope Geochemistry, Mineralogy, Uranium Deposits
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