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4D lithospheric evolution and controls on mineral systems in Neoarchean to Paleoproterozoic terranes

West Africa

This project is studying a fundamental transition period in planet Earth 2.7-1.8 billion years ago (Ga), that is also remarkably endowed in metal deposits. 

How does lithosphere architecture evolve in space and time in each terrane? Does this control evolution of upper crust? Distribution of mineral systems?  The project is building  4D spatial & temporal maps to show lithosphere architecture evolution and aims to be a benchmark study in earth evolution.   This aims to improve exploration targeting of new mineral districts (most under cover) with new ideas3D and 4D models of mineral systems viewed within craton-scale context that are constrained by fieldwork, geophysics, geochronology and geochemistry.

The project is modular with three key time periods:

  • Module 1 – 2.2-2.1 Ga Leo-Man shield in West Africa.
  • Module 2 – 1.9-1.7 Ga North Australian Craton (e.g. Tanami + Tennant Ck projects).
  • Module 3 – Synthesis of Module 1, & 2 with Yilgarn Craton of Western Australia  (2.75-2.6 Ga)