Uranium mineralization formed through multi-stage superposition: Case of the Qianjiadian deposit in Songliao Basin, China

The Qianjiadian uranium deposit is located in the Kailu Depression of Songliao Basin. It is a large-scale in-situ leachable uranium deposit of sandstone type and provides a typical case of the uranium deposits in the Songliao Basin. Here we analyze the impact of oil and gas on reduction alteration, and factors including low grade mineralization. The Qianjiadian uranium deposit is characterized as a typical roll-type deposit with interlayers in oxidized zone. The occurrence of reductive low-permeability sandstone in uranium reservoirs controls the morphology of the uranium-rich orebody. We propose a metallogenic model involving multi-stage superposition characterized by “primary sediment enrichment - interlayer oxidation - superimposed transformation”. Our model would be helpful for formulating guidelines in the exploration for sandstone-type uranium deposits in the Songliao Basin.