GEOCHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SALTYCHIAN GRANITES (WESTERN AZOV AREA) ACCORDING TO THE ICP-MS RESEARCH RESULTS

Abstract

The ICP-MS research results of the interesting from a metallogenic point of view Saltychian granites of the Azov geoblock western part are presented. Compared to the surrounding granitoids, the Saltychian granites can be enriched in Nb and Ta. It is assumed that vein pegmatites and pegmatoid granites with minerals of rare metals (Nb, Ta, REE, Y) are genetically related to them. For the first time, the results of ICP-MS analysis for the determination of the full REE spectrum as well as elements, such as Hf, Ta, Sc, etc., are presented. The main impurity elements in rocks and minerals from them (apatite, ilmenite, biotite, titanite, orthite) were determined in seven samples. Such specific features of the Saltychian granites as the presence of orthite and an increased amount of titanite, are highlighted. These are the main concentrator minerals of REE, Th, U, and Y. Based on the results of our research and the materials of the predecessors, detailed comparative characteristics of orthite and titanite in various rocks are provided. A significant part of REE and Y is concentrated in apatite and titanite, and Nb, Ta, Zr, V — in ilmenite and biotite. The geochemical features of these minerals are considered by comparing the author's results and literature data. Possible reasons for some discrepancies are analyzed. The research results presented in the article confirm the current ideas postulating the genetic connection of Saltychian granites and pegmatites of the Azov with rare metal mineralization (Nb, Ta, REE, Y).