SZKIC METALOGENII POLSKICH KARPAT – MODELE I MOŻLIWOŚCI WYSTĘPOWANIA ZŁÓŻ RUD

Abstract

OUTLINE OF METALLOGENY OF THE POLISH CARPATHIANS – ORE DEPOSIT MODELS AND THE POSS IBILITY OF DISCOVERY HIDDEN ORE DEPOSITS

Abstract. Numerous manifestations of ore mineralization are found in the Polish part of the Carpathians. In the past there were also episodes of mining activity. Iron ores were mined in the Tatra Mountains and Outer Carpathians) as well as small-scale exploitation of polymetallic lodes was undertaken (Tatras, Pieniny). Currently, there are no documented deposits of metallic ores in this area. Formerly extracted deposits are of small size, and many of them are highly exhausted and do not meet current quality requirements. The last explorations for ore deposits were carried out in the 20th century, especially after World War II. However, they have not led to discovery of new deposits. The increasing demand for metals and the development of technologies allowing the use of ore with low levels of metals and profitable exploitation of small “hidden” deposits give rise to reconsider the possibility of occurrence of ore deposits in the Carpathians. This paper focuses on two major topics. The first one is a discussion and analysis of available source materials and data on the old deposits and identified occurrences of ore mineralization. An attempt of their interpretation in relation to the contemporary models of deposits was made. Current geotectonic models of the geological structure of the Carpathians and their development were taken into account. The second topic, based on the results of presented analyses and ideas, is the selection of some areas prospective for the occurrence of ore deposits, especially those located at greater depths than previously sought. In these areas (the Bystre thrust, the area between Krynica and Wysowa, and the zone of andesite occurrences in the Pieniny Klippen Belt) it is recommended to perform exploration to both better examine their deep geological structure and conduct geochemical surveys using modern research methods.