<p> Field observation at seven outcrops and subsequent polished section studies reveal that lead and zinc mineralization in the Hamilton vicinity occurred after the lithification of the host carbonates. The availability of open structures and the presence of potential reducing agents are the main controlling factors of sulphide deposition, The absence of an igneous source demands an origin of the metals from the sedimentary country rocks. Analysis of 14 shales and 12 dolomites by atomic absorption for Cu, Pb, and Zn indicates that the argillaceous rocks are potential source of the heavy metals. Furthermore, a simple leaching experiment has demonstrated that concentrated brine (sodium chloride solution) can preferentially leach lead and zinc from the shales. A mode of origin involving preferential.leaching can then adequately explain the scarcity of copper minerals in the Mississippi Valley-Type ore, It is suggested that better controlled leaching experiments at various temperatures should be done in conjunction with more extensive field work to check the plausibility of such a theory. </p> / Thesis / Bachelor of Science (BSc)

<p> Previous workers in the Hamilton area have pointed out the occurance of lead and zinc mineralization within the Mid-Silurian carbonate beds. They also mentioned the existance of bitumens in these rock units.</p> <p> Analysis of 30 dolomite samples and separated bitumens by atomic absorption for Cu, Pb, Zn showed that the localization of the metals in the carbonates was controlled by the concentration of the bitumens in the rocks.</p> <p> Analysis of 5 bitumens samples by atomic absorption for Cu, Pb, Zn suggested that the bitumens act merely as a reducing agent and are not preferred sites for base metal accumulation.</p> / Thesis / Bachelor of Science (BSc)