A Petrographic and Paragenetic Characterization of the Ertelien Ni-Cu Deposit (Norway)

Sammanfattning: The escalating demand for metals driven by advancements in renewable energy technologies and hightech products has underscored the significance of understanding and characterizing ore deposits. This study focuses on the Ertelien Ni-Cu deposit in Norway, a region rich in nickel, cobalt, and copper resources—essential components for the transition to a sustainable energy future. The deposit, located within the Kongsberg belt, holds substantial economic potential due to its Ni-Cu-Co sulfide mineral enrichment. Previous assay results from drill cores, optical microscopy, and electron probe micro-analysis were employed to characterize the mineralogy and based on this interpreter the formation mechanisms, and enrichment processes that formed the deposit.  The Ertelien deposit represents an igneous origin with significant Ni-Cu-Co content estimated at 2.7 million metric tons, with grades of 0.83%, 0.69%, and 0.06%, respectively, within a gabbronorite intrusive body. Optical microscopy and electron probe micro-analysis revealed a complex mineral assemblage including common silicates such as plagioclase, pyroxene, amphibole, mica, olivine, and others, as well as sulfides such as pyrite, chalcopyrite, pyrrhotite, pentlandite.  The primary objective of this study is to conduct an in-depth examination of the geological, mineralogical, and enrichment aspects of the Ertelien deposit. Specifically, primary magmatic and assimilation processes involved in the formation of Ni-Cu-deposits were be evaluated, as well as any potential metal redistribution resulting from secondary processes. Mineralogical studies, facilitated by combining optical microscopy and electron microprobe analysis provided important information on the mechanisms contributing to metal enrichment in or deposits. Optical microscopy and electron probe microanalysis revealed a complex mineral assemblage including common silicates such as plagioclase, pyroxene, amphibole, mica, olivine, and others, as well as sulfides such as pyrite, chalcopyrite, pyrrhotite, pentlandite.  The analyzed rock suite spans a range of compositions from gabbroic to tonalite, with MgO concentrations varying from 0.38 to 22.96 wt.%. Overall, there is a discernible trend of sulfur enrichment in or near samples characterized by low MgO and high Na2O and CaO contents, suggesting that sulfide saturation is likely associated with the assimilation of S-bearing gneisses into which the Ertelien gabbronorites intruded. Ni concentrations exhibit an increasing trend with depth. The nickel-to-cobalt ratio (Ni/Co) displays a discernible pattern that correlates with sulfide crystallization during the process of magmatic fractionation. Notable distinctions observed among groups characterized by differing Ni/Co contents in chalcopyrite, pentlandite, pyrrhotite, and pyrite reveal distinct trends in Ni concentrations. In conjunction with the presence of sphalerite and Ag-pentlandite, which are indicative of lower temperature origin compared to magmatic activity, all these observations provide compelling indications of diverse potential sources, including variations in magma compositions and the influence of hydrothermal processes.  Investigating ore formation conditions enhances the mining sector's ability to identify high-potential mineralization areas, vital for ensuring a stable supply of metals essential for renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, and advanced electronics.