The Mafic related Metallic Mineral Deposits in the Msangano Trough, Mbozi Terrane, Tanzania: Insights from Apparent Density Mapping

Abstract

This study reports the occurrence of mafic-related metallic mineral deposits in the Msangano Trough of the Mbozi terrane, Tanzania. The study investigated the Msangano Trough by applying apparent density mapping and edge detection methods to TOPEX gravity data of the study area, utilizing Oasis Montaj software. The edge detectors were used to locate contacts, and faults, and, to calculate depths to the gravity anomalies. The apparent density values were utilized to distinguish metallic mineral deposits from non-mineralized intrusions. The results from these methods were combined to construct the structural map of the study area. The results show that the area is structurally controlled by major faults predominantly trending in the northwest-southeast direction. The area has two metallic mineral deposits, A and B, with density values ranging from 3.62 to 4.30 g/cm3. These deposits, A and B, span 109.8 and 62.2 km2, respectively. The Euler deconvolution and Direct Source Parameter Imaging indicate that the deposits are situated at an average depth of 950 m below the surface. The age of the basalts in the Mbozi terrane correlates well with the age of the Bushveld Igneous Complex in South Africa and the Sudbury Complex in Ontario, Canada. This indicates that the Msangano deposits, the Bushveld Igneous Complex, and the Sudbury Complex were all emplaced during the same era of magmatic events. This suggests that the Msangano trough is a promising area for the exploration and prospecting of metallic minerals such as chromium, platinum group metals, or nickel, which are also enriched in the Bushveld Igneous Complex and the Sudbury Complex. Additionally, the findings provide crucial information that can guide further exploration of metallic mineral deposits in the Msangano Trough and adjacent areas.