Mobile Pb-isotopes in Proterozoic sedimentary basins as guides for exploration of uranium deposits

Abstract

Lead isotope ratios and associated trace element concentrations (U, Th and Pb) extracted by partial-leaching with 2% nitric acid from Proterozoic sandstones and basement rocks reveal much about the fluid evolution of sedimentary basins hosting unconformity-type uranium deposits. In addition, these techniques have great potential as a guide for exploration of uranium and other types of deposits in basins of any age. Isotope ratios of Pb in Proterozoic sandstones from basins known to contain high-grade uranium deposits are radiogenic at key geological localities and settings distal to known mineralization and particularly in altered zones proximal to mineralization. Sandstones completely cemented by quartz overgrowths typically have non-radiogenic Pb isotope ratios, indicating early closure of porosity and isolation of these rocks from later fluid events. Alternatively, the unconformity served as both a source of uranium and radiogenic Pb as well as an avenue for late-stage (<250–900 Ma) fluid flow. The mafic volcanic units, which are relatively reducing lithologies and therefore have removed uranium from basinal brines, have uranium-supported radiogenic Pb isotope ratios. Comparison of 238U/ 206Pb and 206Pb/ 204Pb ratios is useful in determining the timing and nature of U and Pb migration before, during and after mineralization in these basins. This comparison can be used to delineate the presence of radiogenic Pb isotope ratios that are not internally supported by uranium and thorium in rocks, eventually providing the explorationist with geochemical vectors that point toward sites of high potential for economic uranium mineralization.