X-ray computed tomography study for drill core of the Drazhnoe orogenic-type gold deposit (Sakha (Yakutia), Russian Federation)

Orogenic gold-quartz deposits have a clear structural control and are accompanied by wallrock metasomatic alteration. However, in detailed modeling of such deposits, there is often a mismatch between the structural plans for high-grade ore zone distribution and metasomatite zones, and the latter are not always associated with faults. This is explained by the evolution of the hydrothermal process and the pulsating nature of the development of the territory. In the early stages of the mineral deposit study, it is very important to reliably determine the distribution of ore zones, since the correct targeting of the drilling program and the economic deposit assessment depend on it. The problem can be solved using the method of X-ray computed tomography (СТ) in the core study. This paper presents the methodology of studying fullsize core samples of gold deposits by using CT. A core sample characterizing the central part of ore body of Drazhnoye deposit (Tarynskoye ore field, Republic of Sakha (Yakutia)) was used as the study material. The sample studied was scanned by a SIEMENS Somatom Perspective tomograph at two energies (80 and 130 keV). As a result, a detailed three-dimensional stereological model of the core was obtained, which made it possible not only to study the distribution of ore minerals in the volume of the entire sample, but also to identify vein bodies of different ages, as well as to study their morphology and trace the distribution patterns of ore mineralization in them. Based on the study results, we can offer a preliminary interpretation of ore mineralization and vein formation sequence.