The vorticity axis flip and its control on mineralization

This paper discusses the possible role of vorticity axis flip in controlling fluid flow and consequent development of hydrothermal deposits. Structural, kinematic and vorticity data from the vicinity of the Singhbhum Shear Zone (SSZ) are used to propose a two stage model to explain hydrothermal mineralization. It is suggested that in the initial stage, fractures, weak planes, foliations and/or shear zones develop. Fracture permeability is weak at this stage, as a consequence of which fluid pressure builds up. Variation in stress orientation during a later stage of deformation results in enhancement of fracture network, fracture permeability and its anisotropy. If a significant vorticity axis flip accompanies this variation in stress orientation, then it pumps the fluids into the fracture network, thus yielding hydrothermal mineral deposits. In the case of SSZ, the vorticity axis flip is envisaged to have taken place from steeply plunging (anticlockwise) during the early stage, to sub-horizontal during the late stage. The SSZ became a northerly dipping thrust at this late stage and the rotation around the sub-horizontal vorticity axis was such that the rocks comprising the northern block were thrust over southern block (Singhbhum granitoid). According to the author, this vorticity axis flip must have been critical in pumping up the fluids along the SSZ to form quartz veins that host mineral deposits.