Geological characteristics and genesis analysis of a niobium-tantalum polymetallic deposit in Nigeria

Nigeria owns abundant mineral resource endowments, particularly notable for its tin, lead-zinc, gold and rare metal mineralization. So far, only one rare metal deposit related to granitoid has been found in this country and is investigated in this investigation. Detailed data on deposit and ore geology, mineral and ore chemistry and geophysical measurements are presented, and ore-forming processes and mineralization mechanics will be discussed. Chemical compositions and structure of niobium-tantalum and associated metal minerals suggest they precipitate from different ore-forming fluids related to multi-stage magmatic -hydrothermal activity. Geological and geophysical investigation explores the spatial distribution characteristics of orebodies and granitic rocks from the niobium-tantalum deposit, and reveals a distinct magma zonation. Our results furthermore suggest the niobium-tantalum mineralization is genetically associated with magma intrusion and later hydrothermal metamorphism. In addition, structures play an important role in enriching in ore elements of magma to form economic niobium-tantalum orebodies. This study provides valuable reference for rare-metal exploration and development of similar geological environments.