Ore Deposit Geology (CSMM109)

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Module status - Discontinued
Module description status - Inactive
Credits - 30
College code - ESE
Academic year - 2013/4

Module staff

Duration (weeks) - term 1

11

Duration (weeks) - term 2

11

Duration (weeks) - term 3

11

Number students taking module (anticipated)

28

Module description

On this module, you will study a range of mineral deposits, typically including the following ore types: layered intrusives (Pt/Cr), orthomagmatic Fe-Ti deposits, Ni-Cu-Co sulphide deposits of magmatic origin, porphyry Cu-Mo-Au and epithermal gold systems, volcanogenic massive sulphides, sediment hosted Pb-Zn deposits, bauxites, iron ores, placers. We will also cover Industrial minerals, typically including aggregates, clays, limestones and other carbonates, silica sand, gypsum and other evaporites. Then, we will broaden the studies of each deposit type to include typical mining and processing routes, environmental issues, detailed ore mineralogy, petrology and case histories. Furthermore, we will explore industrial minerals within a genetic framework, and relate these to industrial development and markets.

Module aims

The aim is to develop an in-depth understanding of the genesis, geological characteristics, mining and processing of the major types of metalliferous ore deposits and industrial minerals. Major ore deposits relating to magmatic, hydrothermal, and surface processes are included.

ILO: Module-specific skills

    ILO: Discipline-specific skills

      ILO: Personal and key skills

        Syllabus plan

        Term 1 (Week 1-9) The sources and nature of magmatic and hydrothermal fluids; Structural, lithological and chemical controls to mineralisation. Term 2 (Week 1-9) Mechanisms for deposition and the associated ore textures and wall rock alteration, Sedimentary processes in ore deposit formation Analytical techniques in ore deposit studies. Use of descriptive and genetic models of mineral deposits to illustrate the above concepts. The selection of mineral deposits studied varies depending upon lecturers’ research interests and areas of specialist knowledge, availability of guest lecturers, current trends in exploration, and commodity demand, but would typically include the following ore types: layered intrusives (Pt/Cr), orthomagmatic Fe-Ti deposits, Ni-Cu-Co sulphide deposits of magmatic origin, porphyry Cu-Mo-Au and epithermal gold systems, volcanogenic massive sulphides, sediment hosted Pb-Zn deposits, bauxites, iron ores, placers. Industrial minerals typically include aggregates, clays, limestones and other carbonates, silica sand, gypsum and other evaporites. Studies of each deposit type are then broadened to include typical mining and processing routes, environmental issues, detailed ore mineralogy, petrology and case histories. Industrial minerals within a genetic framework and relating these to industrial development and markets.

        Learning activities and teaching methods (given in hours of study time)

        Scheduled Learning and Teaching ActivitiesGuided independent studyPlacement / study abroad
        9013080

        Details of learning activities and teaching methods

        CategoryHours of study timeDescription
        Scheduled learning & teaching activities30Lectures
        Scheduled learning & teaching activities60Practicals
        Placement/study abroad80overseas field excursion
        Guided Independent Study130Private study

        Summative assessment (% of credit)

        CourseworkWritten examsPractical exams
        30700

        Module has an active ELE page?

        Yes

        Module ECTS

        15

        Module co-requisites

        CSMM102, CSMM103, CSMM110

        NQF level (module)

        7

        Available as distance learning?

        No

        Origin date

        19/11/2012

        Last revision date

        08/10/2013