Biological and abiological processes in a simulated sedimentary system

A simulated sedimentary system, capable of being controlled and monitored for a considerable length of time without undue disturbance, has been assembled and applied to specific problems of the genesis of stratiform Pb‐Zn ore deposits. Results have been obtained relevant to: (i) the concentration of Pb and Zn from brines to underlying sediments; (ii) the behaviour of microorganisms in metal‐rich, highly saline environments; (iii) the precipitation diagenesis of calcium and magnesium carbonates; and (iv) the diagenesis of organic matter. The experiment has demonstrated the feasibility of simulating a complex sedimentary environment in the laboratory and has indicated the potential of such systems for the investigation of geobiological problems.