Ore Genesis of the Jiawula Pb–Zn–Ag Deposit, Inner Mongolia: Constraints from C–H–O Isotopes, In Situ S Isotopes, Fluid Inclusions, and LA-ICP-MS Analysis of Chalcopyrite
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide The Jiawula large-scale Pb–Zn–Ag deposit occurs within Jurassic volcanic rocks, structurally controlled by NW-trending faults. This study integrates systematic analyses of chalcopyrite trace elements, fluid inclusions, and stable isotopes (C–H–O–S) to elucidate its ore-forming fluid evolution and mineralization processes. Fluid inclusion analyses reveal an evolutionary trajectory from an early H 2 O–NaCl–CO 2 system to a late H 2 O–NaCl–CH 4 system. Carbon isotopes indicate that magmatic degassing-derived CO 2 dominated the early stage (δ 13 C = −6.34‰), with subsequent methane input contributing to the late stage (δ 13 C = −16.73‰). Hydrogen–oxygen isotopes demonstrate that the ore-forming fluids represent mixtures of deep-sourced magmatic water and meteoric water. In situ sulfur isotopes (δ 34 S = −0.1‰ to 5.2‰) suggest a predominantly magmatic sulfur source. Combined characteristics─including low-temperature (298.8–197.2 °C), low-salinity (<5 wt % NaCl eq) fluids, chalcopyrite trace-element signatures, mineral assemblages, and pore-filling textures─classify the Jiawula deposit as an epithermal deposit. In contrast, adjacent porphyry-type Mo–Cu mineralization represents a distinct, subsequent overprinting event.
Source: ACS Omega
Authors: Hongkai Li, Wentian Mi, Yushan Zuo, Jiaqi Xu, Zhenlin Ren
Institution: Inner Mongolia University of Technology
Language: English
Subfield: Economics and Econometrics
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,935
Awards: G2581809513, G6875832564
OpenAlex ID: W4413900681