Fractures, fluid flow and mineralization

Abstract

Faulting and fracturing play an important role in enhancing permeability, facilitating fluid flow and controlling hydrothermal mineralization in rocks. This is the main theme of this volume and the papers included here are intended to provide an overview of current ideas at the interfaces of structural geology, fluid flow and mineralization research. Included are some speculative but provocative ideas that should stimulate a re-examination of existing concepts regarding fluid flow in fracture systems and the formation of hydrothermal mineral deposits. Also highlighted are recent advances showing the significance of the development of fracture connectivity in focussing fluid flow. The collection concludes with a thematic set of papers presenting new research results on the genesis of the world famous Carboniferous base metal deposits of Ireland.