The possible role of sulfate-reduction kinetics in the formation of hydrothermal uranium deposits
As a sulfate-bearing, hydrothermal solution cools to less than about 200°C, kinetic factors prevent sulfate from entering into oxidation-reduction reactions. Consequently, the reducing effect of H2S (and other reduced species) is not balanced with the oxidizing effect of SO4= to the same extent as at higher temperatures. The result is a lower effective Eh of the system. This decrease in the effective Eh due to a slowing of the rate of sulfate reduction with cooling may be the precipitation mechanism for many types of ore deposits.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 1979 |
---|---|
Title | The possible role of sulfate-reduction kinetics in the formation of hydrothermal uranium deposits |
DOI | 10.3133/ofr79673 |
Authors | Charles S. Spirakis |
Publication Type | Report |
Publication Subtype | USGS Numbered Series |
Series Title | Open-File Report |
Series Number | 79-673 |
Index ID | ofr79673 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |