Constraining the relation between large-scale extensional tectonics, fluid flow and carbonate hosted Pb-Zn ore formation - geochronology of the Ja-bali deposit (Yemen)

• Applicant: Professor Jens Gutzmer, Ph.D.
• Subject Area: Mineralogy, Petrology and Geochemistry
• Term: from 2012 to 2016
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 220118460

Epigenetic Mississippi Valley type (MVT) Pb-Zn deposits occur in carbonate platform successions of Late Achaean to Mesozoic age. Distinct paleo-fluid flow models are available for the formation of Pb-Zn ore mineralization. The connection between ore formation, paleo-fluid flow and tectonic regimes depend on the availability of accurate ages for ore formation. Unfortunately, geochronological investi-gations of this deposit type are exceedingly difficult; the most promising approach is Rb-Sr dating of sphale-rite.The Jabali deposit (Yemen) of MVT type is exceptional because it is assumed to have formed in an extensional tectonic regime, unlike the overwhelming majority of MVT deposits with known age that are believed to be related to compressional regimes. Rb-Sr dating of the Jabali deposit can support a deeper insight into the formation of ore deposits in carbonate platforms related to hydrothermal fluid flow, especially in connection with extensional tectonic regimes.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Italy
• Participating Person: Professorin Maria Boni, Ph.D.