Abstract:

NITON XL3t-500S GOLDD was applied to test bedrock samples outcropping near Zhongshan Station in the Larsemann Hills of Antarctica. Preliminary survey results show apparently enriched rubidium(Rb) contents. Among the 17 tested rock samples, 12 contained around 0.04% Rb, and one contained as much as 0.1%. By analyzing the sample features, and considering the geological characteristics of the Larsemann Hills, we conclude that the enrichment of Rb is related strongly to a biotite-pegmatite dyke formed in the Pan-African period. Furthermore, the larger the grains in the sample, the greater the Rb content. By analogical analysis, we speculate that the Larsemann Hills have big Rb potential. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out the corresponding geological investigation to further our understanding of the causes for and rules governing Rb enrichment in the Larsemann Hills.

Key words: Rb content, Pegmatite, Zhongshan Station, Larsemann Hills, East Antarctica