Combining scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and X-ray fluorescence to characterize shear zones at the Pogo gold deposit, Alaska

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Abstract

This study employs a multi-method analytical approach to characterize the mineralogical, geochemical, and textural properties of fault rocks from the Pogo gold mine in the Yukon-Tanana Upland, central Alaska. Specifically, we examine cataclasites, to document the structural and geochemical evolution of shear zones and their associations with gold mineralization. To investigate the shear zone, we integrate portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF), scanning electron microscopy-based automated mineralogy (SEM-AM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and high-resolution micro-X-ray fluorescence (micro-XRF) mapping. These methods collectively provide insights into bulk and trace element chemistry, mineralogical composition, and deformation-related textures across multiple scales. Handheld pXRF enables rapid geochemical screening, guiding SEM-AM and XRD analyses to ensure consistent mineralogical interpretation. X-ray diffraction identifies and quantifies crystalline phases, while SEM-AM produces high-resolution mineral maps, revealing mineral abundances, grain-scale textures, and gold associations. Micro-XRF mapping further refines our understanding by showing visual trace element distributions at sub-millimetre resolution. By integrating these techniques, we improve our understanding of the nature and geochemistry of Pogo shear zones, their role in gold mineralization, and support metallurgical processing strategies. This approach enhances exploration models and resource characterization for structurally complex gold deposits.
Publication type Conference Paper
Publication Subtype Conference Paper
Title Combining scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and X-ray fluorescence to characterize shear zones at the Pogo gold deposit, Alaska
Volume 3
Year Published 2025
Language English
Publisher Society for Geology Applied to Mineral Deposits (SGA)
Contributing office(s) Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center
Description 4 p.
First page 1157
Last page 1160
Conference Title 18th SGA Biennial Meeting
Conference Location Golden, CO
Conference Date August 3-7, 2025
Country United States
State Alaska
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