Main genetic types of Ni ore deposits in China and their relations to paleo-plate tectonics

Abstract

So far three main genetic types of nickel deposit have been recognized in China: magmatic copper-nickel sulfide deposits, nickel deposits occurring in the crust of weathering, and sedimentary nickel deposits. On the basis of the geotectonic settings of intrusive bodies, their genetic types, and the way sulfides are concentrated, the copper-nickel sulfide deposits fall into two broad categories: deposits emplaced along paleolandmass edges and those in the mobile zones on the outside of paleolandmasses. They can further be divided into six sub-categories and then a variety of types.The magmatic copper-nickel sulfide deposits constitute one of the most important genetic types in China. Geological evidence shows that the individual ferruginous ultrabasic bodies intruding along paleolandmass edges are most favourable for Ni-mineralization.In the light of the paleo-structural analysis, the author has proposed three mechanisms with respect to the formation of Ni-bearing ultrabasic bodies.