Neutron Activation Analysis and High Resolution Gamma-Ray Spectrometry Applied to Areal Elemental Distribution Studies

Schuiling (1967) applied both 'metallogenetic province' and continental drift principles to a study of the world-wide distribution of tin. A plot of tin deposit occurrences on the continents reconstituted as 'Pangeae' yielded 'tin belts' joining intercontinentally between the Americas, Africa and Europe. Discussions with Sir John Cockcroft and Sir Edward Bullard, in April 1967, led to this study of the applicability of automated, instrumental thermal neutron activation analysis techniques to large-scale areal elemental distribution determinations related to continental drift and to metallogenesis. The Enchanted Rock batholith, Llano, Texas, was selected as an initial area in which to apply this method on the basis of the availability of independent geochemical information concerning the pluton from Hutchinson (1956), Billings (1963) and Ragland (1968). Rock samples, including points from areas outside the batholith, were obtained at each of 16 sampling sites. One-gram rock samples were irradiated in a thermal neutron flux of ≈2 x 1012 n/cm2 s for 2 hours. Six trace elements (Hf, Ta, Co, Eu, Sc and La), and one minor element (Fe), were determined by gamma-ray spectrometry utilizing a 19 cm3 Ge(Li) detector and a 3200-channel analyser, and were areally mapped. The results indicate continuous trends in each trace element, through various rock types, over a distance of greater than 50 miles. The trace elements of pyrite, chalcopynte and sphalerite obtained from the Philippine Islands were measured in order to apply this procedure to minerals in a location where their areal extent has not previously been extensively studied. The methodology described above was repeated. A set of average element abundances in chalcopynte, pyrite and sphalerite is suggested on which to base the presence or absence of an element province or combined elements provinces. Preliminary results indicate the presence of a gold province in the northwestern part of Luzon Island. This technique offers promise in mineral exploration in relatively undeveloped areas by showing both direct and indirect prospecting criteria. Some knowledge is thus gained concerning the probable indications of the presence of certain elements of interest and their approximate locations, and this should reduce the cost of instituting mineral exploration programs. (author)