Tenor variation within komatiite-associated nickel sulphide deposits: insights from the Wannaway Deposit, Widgiemooltha Dome, Western Australia

Summary Detailed geological evaluation yields insights into the relative influence of post-volcanic structural and metamorphic processes on Ni tenor (Ni concentration in 100wt% sulphides) variation within the Wannaway N02 ore body, Western Australia. The ore body is characterised by highly variable geometrical configuration and ore zone morphology, and predominance of massive sulphides. Polyphase deformation and metamorphism to mid-amphibolite facies have modified the ore continuity, mineralogy, textures and fabrics. The up-dip and down-dip parts of the ore body are distinct from the central part, with significant structural relocation of massive ores, abundance of pyrrhotite-rich massive ores that lack mineralogical layering, and breccia ores. Massive sulphides plot within the field of Fe–Ni–S monosulphide solid solution (MSS) at 600°C and form separate low, and medium- to high-tenor populations. Nickel tenor in massive ores varies from 6.1% to 18.8% within the ore body. Moreover, massive ore tenor is highly variable (>8wt%) over distances of 20m, and the lowest tenor massive ores occur at the down-dip and up-dip parts of the ore body.Four models are evaluated as possible explanations for the wide Ni tenor variation within the Wannaway N02 ore body (i) R-factor, (ii) oxygen fugacity f(O₂), (iii) metamorphic sulphidation, and (iv) structural relocation. The highly variable massive ore tenor over such short distances and the occurrence of lowest tenor massive ores in structurally complex areas all contradict strict application of the R-factor model. The abundance of magnetite within massive ores is relatively consistent throughout the ore body, which undermines the f(O₂) model. Lack of correlation of pyrite and Ni tenor is inconsistent with the metamorphic sulphidation model. The bulk of the structural, mineralogical and geochemical evidence indicate a strong role for structural and metamorphic processes, in addition to primary volcanic processes, on Ni tenor variation. Sulphides reverted to Ni-poor MSS and Ni-rich MSS at peak metamorphism. As a result of ductility contrasts, syn- and post-peak metamorphic deformation, Ni-poor MSS was preferentially relocated along faults, producing massive ore tenor variations and destroying primary ore fabric and textures.Present address: Geoinformatics Explorations Ltd, Suite 1280, 625 Howe Street, Vancouver BC, V6C 2T6 Canada