Open-File Report 2011–1259
AbstractNickel-cobalt (Ni-Co) laterite deposits are an important source of nickel (Ni). Currently, there is a decline in magmatic Ni-bearing sulfide lode deposit resources. New efforts to develop an alternative source of Ni, particularly with improved metallurgy processes, make the Ni-Co laterites an important exploration target in anticipation of the future demand for Ni. This deposit model provides a general description of the geology and mineralogy of Ni-Co laterite deposits, and contains discussion of the influences of climate, geomorphology (relief), drainage, tectonism, structure, and protolith on the development of favorable weathering profiles. This model of Ni-Co laterite deposits represents part of the U.S. Geological Survey Mineral Resources Program’s effort to update the existing models to be used for an upcoming national mineral resource assessment. |
First posted September 28, 2011 For additional information contact: Part or all of this report is presented in Portable Document Format (PDF); the latest version of Adobe Reader or similar software is required to view it. Download the latest version of Adobe Reader, free of charge. |
Marsh, E.E. and Anderson, E.D., 2011, Ni-Co laterite deposits: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 2011–1259, 9 p.
Introduction
History
Profile Formation and Mineralogy
Secular Variation
Exploration and Geophysics
Conclusions
References Cited