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Prediction of orogenic gold deposition in the Western Alps by Geodynamic Modeling Investigators: Funding: Austrian Research Fund FWF P14481-CHE Summary Exploration for orogenic gold deposits requires predictive understanding of how large-scale tectonism controls the generation and flow of hydrothermal fluids. We use a thermo-mechanical numerical model to explore the role of Alpine continental collision in forming gold-quartz veins in the Western Alps. Forward modelling, starting from the pre-collisional stage, shows that deep-reaching extensional channels develop in the orogen core during post-collisional uplift. The channels are inferred to permit gold-bearing metamorphic fluids to ascend from the middle crust into shallow brittle-ductile structures, where ore precipitates. The model predictions match well the locations and relative timing of known Alpine gold veins.
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Fig. 1. Colour contours of horizontal strain rate at the end of the model run, showing area of extension (blue) connecting a channel at mid-crustal depths to the surface. See poster for more details.
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Fig. 2. Schematic illustration of possible migration route of metamorphics fluids towards surface, based on results of numerical model.
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