The role of gypsum in Cu-Co ore genesis within the Upper Miocene Boleo deposit of the Santa Rosalía Basin, Baja California Sur, México
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This dissertation presents research on the geology, mineralization, and fluid evolution of the Boleo deposit in the Santa Rosalía basin, focusing on the role of evaporite bodies and fault networks in cobalt mineralization. The lithofacies description and sedimentological analysis of Boleo gypsum in Arroyo Boleo reveal a meromictic continental basin environment with cyclic deepening and shallowing trends driven by tectonic subsidence and marine incursions. Mineralization at the top of clastic sediments and the base of gypsum cycles indicates coeval deposition of evaporites and ores. The study identifies segmented normal fault arrays as feeder zones for metal-enriched hydrothermal fluids, with subsurface gypsum bodies acting as halogen suppliers. These feeders exhibit distinct metal tonnages and ratios, indicating proximity to the source. The dissertation also examines the physicochemical characteristics of fluids in the Boleo deposit, proposing a brine pool model with a magmatic fluid source for metals. The intricate zoning of metals indicates variations in major and trace metal composition within ore bed sediments, influenced by brine fluids and hydrothermal fluids. The research points out the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and continued research efforts to improve our understanding of gypsum deposits for industrial use and to optimize their benefits.
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Introduction and interdisciplinary nature of research -- Geologic settings and previous studies -- Gypsum depositional model for the upper Miocene stratiform-copper Boleo formation on the Baja California Peninsula, México -- Cobalt distribution in the Boleo stratiform sediment-hosted ore deposit; a transtension rift basin in Central Baja California Peninsula, México -- Vent-distal, stratiform Cu-Co-Zn ore deposits of the late Miocene Boleo formation, Central in Central Baja California Peninsula, México -- Geological and mining specifications for natural gypsum rock in the construction and agricultural sector -- Conclusions
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Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy)