Open AccessThe Minerals Wealth in the Kurdistan Region, Iraq
Author(s) -
Varoujan K. Sissakian
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
ukh journal of science and engineering
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2520-7792
DOI - 10.25079/ukhjse.v2n2y2018.pp23-36
Subject(s) - uranium , geology , geochemistry , cretaceous , ophiolite , plate tectonics , tectonics , mineralization (soil science) , thorium , mineral , hydrothermal circulation , paleontology , materials science , metallurgy , soil water , soil science
The Kurdistan region covers the northern and northeastern parts of Iraq which forms the extreme northeastern part of the Arabian Plate. It is colliding with the Eurasian Plate. The collision has caused thrusting parts of the ophiolite inside Iraq from Iran, besides the hydrothermal fluids which have deposited different metallic minerals. The Kurdistan region is characterized by the presence of metallic minerals such as Fe, Zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), Cu, Cr-Ni, and Mn, besides uranium and thorium. The formation of these minerals is associated with the development of the tectonic framework. The major tectonic events are associated with the Tethys development and movement of the Arabian Plate toward the Iranian Plate. Most of the metallic mineralization’s are of the Alpine-type, of Cretaceous age. Some Zn-Pb showing is related to early Alpine activities. Uranium and thorium are of Cretaceous and Jurassic ages. The actual mineral wealth of the Kurdistan region is not known, due to the lack of detailed geological data. However, based on the available data, it is expected that the region is promising for Cu, Fe, Zn, and Pb, besides the radioactive minerals. A critical review is presented to show the potential of the metallic minerals wealth in the region. Moreover, recommendations are given to have a better view of the minerals wealth.