Structural Control of Uranium Mineralization in Australia

Abstract

AbstractA deep seated flow of geoplasma (bathyrheal underflow) subjected crustal blocks to recurring horizontal movements causing north-east trending faults, shearing along anticlines and rotation of the separate crustal blocks. These movements produced extensive faulting and shattering in the South Alligator River area and north of Katherine, providing suitable loci for uranium mineralization. The mineralization occurs as a late phase open fissure filling and two types occur, (i) the nickel–cobalt–native silver type, and (ii) the quartz–pyrite–galena type. These characteristics provide a guide for future prospecting for uranium in Australia.