Permeability and its controlling factors of sandstone in Zhiluo Formation in the southern part of Ordos Basin

The metallogenic conditions for sandstone-type uranium deposits in Zhiluo Formation, Middle Jurassic in the southern part of Ordos Basin are similar to those in the northern part of the basin and consequently it is possible to form large and high-grade uranium deposits. But the permeability of main sand bodies is relatively low which restrains the uranium mineralization in the south area. Based on analyzing the spatial change of physical properties of sand bodies in Zhiluo Formation, the control of diagenesis on physical properties of sandstone has been discussed in the paper, providing a foundation for further prognosis of uranium mineralization in this area. (authors)