Gibbsite mineralization and its genetic implication for the Um Bogma manganese deposit, southwestern Sinai

Abstract

Gibbsite mineralization is found in the Um Bogma region, southwestern Sinai, predominantly in the Um Bogma Formation, and to a lesser extent also in the Abu Thora Formation, at the base of a carboniferous sequence. This region is well known for the manganese ore lenses which occur in the dolomite beds at the base of the Um Bogma Formation. The gibbsite generally occurs in discordant veins and “pockets” within the dolomite. Most of the gibbsite bodies are associated with N-NW Tertiary faults or joints, and with dyke contacts and planes of weakness. The common associated minerals are clays, predominantly kaolinite, gypsum, halite, manganese and iron oxides. In the gibbsite, Pb, Zn and Cu are anomalously high, as is the fluoride content identified in the clay fraction. From stratigraphic, tectonic, petrographic and geochemical evidence it is concluded that the gibbsite mineralization took place during the Tertiary and is of hypogene origin. This hypogene activity also caused intensive leaching and alteration of the Um Bogma dolomites and remobilization of Mn + Fe ore bodies. This interpretation is reinforced by the geochemical similarities of the hot springs and trapped formation waters in the Nubian Sandstones along the Gulf of Suez.