Investigation of rare-earth and associated elements, Zane Hills Pluton, Northwestern Alaska. Open File Report

Technical Report · Tue Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1991

OSTI ID:6373365

Barker, J C

Unverified reports of rare earth element (REE) concentrations in gold placers and radioactive mineral prospects in the Zane Hills were investigated by the U.S. Bureau of Mines as part of the Alaska critical minerals program. The Bureau mapped and sampled all of the reported or suspected REE occurrences. Dredge concentrates contain abundant uranothorianite, a mineral species which incorporates cerium subgroup REE. Bostonite dikes occur in conjunction with a multiphased zoned alkalic intrusion, however, no significant REE concentrations were found. The Zane Hills exhibit attractive exploration targets for uranium deposits, primarily in a sedimentary form. Gold may be found peripheral to the pluton in both placer and lode deposits. Resource potential of REE, however, appears limited to a placer by-product of REE-Zr-Ti that is recoverable only during large scale gold placer mining. Placer exploration of the lower Wheeler and Dakli Creeks is suggested.

• Research Organization: Bureau of Mines, Fairbanks, AK (United States). Alaska Field Operations Center
• OSTI ID: 6373365
• Report Number(s): PB-92-109347/XAB; BUMINES-OFR--36-91
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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