The characteristics of lead-zinc metallization in the Ban Kep area, Bac Me District, Ha Giang Province

Ta Dinh Tung¹, Le Canh Tuan², Do Quoc Binh³, Hai Son Trinh¹, Nguyen Tien Quang¹

¹Vietnam Institute of Geosciences and Mineral Resources, Hanoi, Vietnam

²Hanoi University of Natural Resources and Environment, Hanoi, Vietnam

³General Department of Geology and Minerals of Vietnam, Hanoi, Vietnam

Min. miner. depos. 2025, 19(4):91-98

https://doi.org/10.33271/mining19.04.091

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ABSTRACT

Purpose. This study aims to determine the origin and type of lead-zinc ore deposits in the Ban Kep area, Bac Me District, Ha Giang Province, based on mineral morphology, formation temperature, and isotopic characteristics. The results are intended to support the assessment and forecasting of sedimentary exhalative (SEDEX) Pb-Zn ore resources in Vietnam.

Methods. To investigate the characteristics of SEDEX Pb-Zn deposits in the Ban Kep area, a combination of methods was applied, including mineralographic analysis to determine the composition and tectonic structure of rocks and ores, fluid inclusion studies to constrain formation temperatures, and Pb isotopic analysis to evaluate the environment and sources of ore-forming materials.

Findings. The study shows that lead-zinc metallization in the Ban Kep area has a medium-temperature hydrothermal origin. Furthermore, the results indicate that the metallization shares key features with the SEDEX deposit type.

Originality. SEDEX deposits have been extensively studied worldwide, and multiple genetic models have been proposed, including explosive activity, accumulation of biological debris, and surface replacement. Each model has certain advantages and limitations in explaining the genesis and development of SEDEX deposits. The present study contributes new data from Vietnam, where this deposit type remains less understood.

Practical implications. The findings provide a scientific basis for identifying and evaluating Pb-Zn SEDEX resources in Vietnam, with potential applications in mineral exploration and resource forecasting.

Keywords: lead-zinc, fluid inclusions, stable isotopes, hydrothermal, sedimentary exhalative (SEDEX)

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