The possible role of sulfate-reduction kinetics in the formation of hydrothermal uranium deposits

Open-File Report 79-673
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Abstract

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.

Suggested Citation

Spirakis, C.S., 1979, The possible role of sulfate-reduction kinetics in the formation of hydrothermal uranium deposits: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 79-673, 9 p., https://doi.org/10.3133/ofr79673.

ISSN: 2331-1258 (online)

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title The possible role of sulfate-reduction kinetics in the formation of hydrothermal uranium deposits
Series title Open-File Report
Series number 79-673
DOI 10.3133/ofr79673
Year Published 1979
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Description 9 p.
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