Methaniferous active faults and seismic cycle in the genesis of the Athabasca giant U deposits: conceptual and numerical investigation
Abstract
The reduction process of uranyles and the graphitic faults dynamics are still unconstrained in the formation of giant unconformity-related uranium deposit of Athabasca. Previous and new data on graphitc faults and mineralization are suggestive of paleo-seismicity, possibly during the mineralizing event. Highlighted by data from current active methaniferous fault, we proposed a new model based on seismic cycle for that mineralization, implying seismic pumping, methane production and discharge. Numerical modeling shows that consequences are of first order on paleo-hydrodynamics.