Characterization of the deformation of the Jurassic-Cretaceous deposits of the Toulouk sector (Tim Mersoï basin, North Niger), relation with the uranium mineralizations

Abstract

The Toulouk sector, located in the Tim Mersoï basin, is a particular area due to the presence of a Horst structure within the vast expanses of the Irhazer mudstones. This structure has shown sub-surface uranium mineralization. This raises the problem of understanding the deformation of this sector as well as the mechanisms that favoured the establishment of these mineralizations. Thus, the approach implemented consisted in: · Filed work, analysis of satellite imagery data, cartographic and logging data, · A correlation of geological and logging data, This approach allowed the establishment of a local lithostratigraphic framework and the visualization of the uranium distribution and copper mineralization in this sector. It appears from this work that the Toulouk sector would be subjected to an extensive synsedimentary phase that would have favored a structuring in horst and half-graben. The latter would have favored the development of several tectonic structures. These served as drains for the mineralizing fluids.