Hydrothermal high field strength element enrichment in the Bükk Mts. (NE Hungary)

What is it about?

An enrichment of high field strength elements (Zr, Nb, Ta, Th, REE) was discovered in a non-conventional geological situation. HFSE are hosted by micrometric zircon, monacite and Ti-oxide minerals of silicate dominated beds embedded in thick limestone formations. Evidences point to hydrothermal (metasomatic) origin, but the source of the fluids and metals is unknown.

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Why is it important?

Niobium, tantalum and rare earth elements are critical metals sought for the modern technology, while ore deposits yielding these are rare (in Europe extremely rare). The results of our study might provide a clue in the prospecting of such deposits.