75560 - Resources and Hydrothermal Processes

Learning outcomes

The aim of this course is providing a holistic knowledge of the processes that occur in the magmatic-hydrothermal environment, and which ultimately lead to the genesis of mineral resources (base and precious metals) and geothermal reservoirs. At the end of the course, the student will be able to conduct simple characterizations of geothermal fluids (fluid and gas phases) for the identification of specific geothermal environments; classify the main types of magmatic-hydrothermal deposits (Porphyry Cu, Epithermal, and Skarn) using fundamental observations; provide simple geochemical ore deposit models of the magmatic-hydrothermal environment

Course contents

Thermal properties of the Earth; Endogenous heat sources and geothermal gradients; Geological environments in which geothermal-epithermal systems develop; Surface expressions of geothermal-epithermal systems: thermal springs; localized and diffuse gas efflux; Physical-chemical characteristics of geothermal gas and aqueous phases; Phase diagram of H2O; Geothermal gas and vapours; Enthalpy of hydrothermal systems. Reservoir and steam-heated fluids; Conceptual models of geothermal systems; Exploitation of geothermal systems; Short history of geothermal resources; Geothermal plants; Low-enthalpy geothermal energy.

Definition of mineral deposit; Economic value of mineral deposits; Classification of mineral deposits; Concentration factors; Mineral deposit glossary; Mineral resources and reserves; Magmatic processes and associated mineral resources; Petrological and geochemical background on the genesis of the magmatic-hydrothermal deposits; How mineral deposits are studied: multi-technique analysis of ore bodies, host rocks, and ore fluids;

Types of magmatic-hydrothermal deposits; Genesis of magmas; Element partitioning between silicate melts and minerals: the typical magmatic evolution;

Porphyry Cu-Au-Sn-Mo deposits; Regional- and deposit-scale characteristics of porphyry deposits; Physical-chemical properties of the ore fluid;

Skarn deposits; Seven types of skarn deposits; Deposit-scale characteristics; Exo- and endoskarns; Physical-chemical properties of the ore fluid; Ore and gangue minerals of endo- and exoskarn;

Epithermal Au-Ag (Mo, Cu, Pb, Zn, Hg, Sb, As, Tl) deposits and their classification; Regional- and deposit-scale characteristics of epithermal deposits; Physical-chemical properties of the ore fluid;

Readings/Bibliography

John Ridley (2013)

Ore Deposit Geology

Cambridge University Press

978110702222

Teaching methods

Classes, Practicals in laboratory and class, Field excursion

Assessment methods

Oral examination

Teaching tools

All material used for standard classes; additional scientific papers

Office hours

See the website of Paolo Garofalo