1. Phenomenon for the modern ferromanganese mineralization in aeolian sediments along the coastal zone of Lake Baikal (Siberia).
- Author
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Akulov, Nikolay I, Rubtsova, Maria N, Akulova, Varvara V, and Shchetnikov, Alexander A
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COASTS , *FERROMANGANESE , *COASTAL sediments , *MINERALIZATION , *WORLD Heritage Sites , *FERRIC oxide - Abstract
This study focused on conditions that allow ferromanganese mineralization in modern aeolian sands along the coastal strip of Lake Baikal – a UNESCO world heritage site. Here, we describe a geochemical barrier that divides two geosystems – swamp and littoral (backwater) zones – included within the largest freshwater reservoir on the Earth – Lake Baikal. In correspondence with this geochemical barrier (identified in swamp waters), there is a change in redox conditions. This induces a sharp decrease in the migration capacity of manganese and iron, contributing to their accumulation. Such a geochemical barrier is one of the main elements determining the unique water composition of Lake Baikal, which is related to the precipitation of manganese and iron oxides. Ferromanganese mineralization, revealed by the presence of manganite and limonite dripstones, is responsible for the cementation of aeolian sand grains, explaining the formation of the recent ore-bearing sandstones observed in the study area. The average manganese oxide and ferric oxide contents in the ore were 5.18 and 3.60%, respectively. Research highlights: Ferromanganese sediments in the modern aeolian sands along Lake Baikal shores. Geochemical barrier on the border between the lake and swamp. Limonite−manganite substance cements aeolian sands turning them into sandstones. Model for the formation of a ferromanganese mineralisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2022
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