Value elements in the Kupferschiefer of Saxony-Anhalt

Objective

Geochemical-mineralogical analysis of Kupferschiefer in Saxony-Anhalt to quantify ore distribution in relation to deposit genesis, with implications for the still unmined areas in Germany and in relation to metal mobilization by mine water.

Background

The Kupferschiefer represents an important Cu deposit in Europe, with historical mining in the Mansfeld-Südharz district until the late 20th century. In addition to Cu, numerous other valuable elements were also extracted (Ag, Co, Ni, Re). The increased interest in sustainable and Europe-based raw material production (Critical Raw Materials Act) makes a re-evaluation of the Kupferschiefer necessary with regard to areas in Germany that have not yet been mined. For this purpose, mineralogical and geochemical data on the regional and local distribution of valuable elements are being obtained from drill cores of the Landesamt für Geologie und Bergwesen (LAGB) Saxony-Anhalt.

In selected samples, the value metals are additionally quantified in the different components of the rock down to the millimetre scale, in order to better understand the genesis of the deposit. In addition, data on the mobilization of metals and other elements by mine water are collected using profiles of the Röhrigschacht mine (Wettelrode).