Publisher's Synopsis
The Baja Verapaz District encompasses an ophiolitic complex protruding metamorphic rocks from the Chuacús Series in Central Guatemala. The targeted mineralization is represented by two types of Nickel-Cobalt laterite deposits, an in situ type and an alluvial-deluvial type. A typical laterite profile consists of a Limonitic Horizon which is separated from the Saprolite Horizon by a transition zone named the Mottled Zone. The Saprolite Horizon lays over the Saprock that transitions into the Bedrock, usually represented by serpentinized olivine-rich Lherzolites or Dunites. The usual thickness of these deposits averages 33 meters, but there are known intersections of more than 90 meters in the area. Nickel content varies from 0.4% in the Limonite Horizon to over 1.5% at the bottom of the Saprolite Horizon. Higher values are sometime found associated to the presence of Garnierite. Cobalt values vary from 0.08 to 0.2%. There is also the presence of traces of Au and PGM, usually associated to the Mottled Zone. The lineament analysis completed over an area of 1,541.22 km2 encompassing the whole Baja Verapaz ophiolitic complex, was aimed to identify other potential zones of laterite development in this area. The lineament analysis was completed using a combination of topographic maps in electronic format, aero photos and a D.E.M. of the region and included an aeromagnetic survey of the area. The study also included image interpretation of satellite images and 3D strain and stress analysis. The study indicated the existence of new potential targets and clarified the relationship between the known deposits.
