Bauxite Exploration in Fold–Thrust Belts: Insights from the Posušje Region, Bosnia and Herzegovina

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Publicado en:	Minerals vol. 15, no. 4 (2025), p. 415
Autor principal:	Casini Giulio
Otros Autores:	Saura Eduard, Pavičić Ivica, Pavlin Ida, Šime, Bilić, Peytcheva Irena, Šumanovac Franjo
Publicado:	MDPI AG
Materias:	Eurasia United States > US Bosnia-Hercegovina Paleogene Geological mapping Platforms (geology) Bauxite Cretaceous Accumulation Remote sensing Mineral exploration Aluminum Mining Open pit mining Orogeny Boreholes Preservation Geological surveys Deposits Statistical methods Drilling Unconformity Karst Geophysical surveys Modelling Statistical analysis Stratigraphy Geology Supply chains Geologic mapping Carbonates Elongated structure Bayer process
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Descripción
Resumen:	In the Posušje region of the External Dinarides (Bosnia and Herzegovina), bauxite deposits are hosted along a Late Cretaceous–Paleogene forebulge unconformity that records an extended emersion phase of the Adriatic Carbonate Platform. Historically, open-pit mining has targeted surface and shallow subsurface bauxite bodies, but ongoing exploration must now focus on deeper structurally preserved deposits. To address this challenge, we integrate remote sensing, geological mapping, borehole data, and 3D structural modeling to assess the distribution and structural controls of bauxite deposits. Balanced and restored cross-sections reveal a complex interplay between inverted normal faults, fold structures, and foredeep burial, which collectively influenced bauxite accumulation and preservation. Statistical analyses of deposit size, shape, and orientation indicate that larger bauxite bodies are concentrated in the footwalls of inverted normal faults, where prolonged or repeated exposure enhanced karst development and bauxite accumulation. Additionally, the predominant NW–SE elongation of bauxite bodies suggests that pre-existing structural lineaments played a key role in paleokarst morphology, supporting the influence of syn-depositional extensional faulting on bauxite distribution. These findings demonstrate that bauxite exploration in fold–thrust belts requires an integrated structural approach, where 3D geological modeling can delineate prospective areas prior to costly geophysical surveys and drilling campaigns. Insights from the Posušje region can refine mineral exploration strategies in other orogenic settings, highlighting the importance of structural inheritance in karst bauxite accumulation and preservation.
ISSN:	2075-163X
DOI:	10.3390/min15040415
Fuente:	ABI/INFORM Global