VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.

651-4037-00L 3 Credits MSC D-GESS , D-ERDW
You're viewing possible stale or outdated data. Please check the latest semester for more up-to-date information.

Mineral Resources I

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Cyril Chelle-Michou, Dr. Lorenzo Tavazzani
Can be chosen as an elective course within the Bachelor. Prospective MSc-Students attending the module "Mineral Resources" should attend Mineral Resources I and II in the first year of their MSc studies.
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:16:19

Abstract

Principles of hydrothermal ore formation, using base metal deposits (Cu, Pb, Zn) in sedimentary basins to explain the interplay of geological, chemical and physical factors from global scale to sample scale. Introduction to orthomagmatic ore formation (mostly Cr, Ni, PGE). Introduction to supergene residual deposits (Ni, Al)

Objective

Understanding the fundamental processes of hydrothermal, magmatic and supergene ore formation, recognising and interpreting mineralised rocks in geological context

Content

(a) Principles of hydrothermal ore formation: base metal deposits in sedimentary basins. Practical classification of sample suites by genetic ore deposit types Mineral solubility and ore deposition, principles & thermodynamic prediction using activity diagrams. Driving forces and structural focussing of hydrothermal fluid flow (b) Introduction to orthomagmatic ore formation. Chromite, Ni-Cu sulphides and PGE in layered mafic intrusions. Distribution coefficients between silicate and sulphide melts. Carbonatites and pegmatite deposits. (c) Introduction to supergene residual deposits with emphasis on Ni laterites and bauxites

Resources

Lecture Notes

Notes handed out during lectures

Literature

Extensive literature list distributed in course

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance
Credits and mark based on participation in course (exercises, 50%) and 1h30 written exam in the last lecture of the semester (50%).

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Mineral Resources I
  • Wed 14:15-16:00 (NO D 11)
2 h weekly

Offered In