Genesis of Kaolinite Deposits in the Jungar Coalfield, North China: Petrological, Mineralogical and Geochemical Evidence

Abstract

AbstractPetrological, mineralogical and geochemical studies carried out on kaolinite deposits in Haerwusu surface mine, Jungar Coalfield, northern Ordos Basin, North China, define their characteristics, ore genesis and economic interest. Based on the crystalline size, two different types of kaolinite rocks, cryptocrystalline and grainy, were identified under the microscope. XRD data show that kaolinite is the predominant mineral, associated with boehmite, magnesite, anatase, pyrite, diaspore and calcite. However, high boehmite content (mean 70%) shows up in the middle layers. Kaolinite minerals present homogeneous shape and a good crystallinity (HI = 0.96–1.26). Geochemical studies show that the SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio of kaolinite is close to the theoretical value, and the contents of Na2O, K2O, CaO, MgO are less, suggesting a strong chemical weathering environment. The REE and Eu anomalies show a close relationship between kaolinite and the Yinshan Oldland granite. A Ce anomaly reflects a continental sedimentary environment with shallow water. A temperature range of 26.7–34°C was calculated on the basis of the isotopic signatures (δ18O, δD) of the kaolinite rocks. All these data indicate that the formation of the kaolinite is caused mainly by the dissolution, coagulation, precipitation and recrystallization of aluminosilicate clastics in acidic conditions. The formation of boehmite in the middle layers indicates that the source rocks have changed. Boehmite is mainly formed by dehydration and compaction of an aluminum‐rich colloid which transported into peat swamp during diagenesis. In addition, it formed by desiliconization of kaolinite under acidic conditions. Due to its high kaolinite content (up to 90%) and low iron mineral content (less than 1%), and good crystallinity, kaolinite deposits occurred at Haerwusu surface mine probably have great economical value in the future.