Bio-Geochemical Processes: Insights from Fe-Mn Mineralization in the Aegean Sea (Greece)

In this study, we have compiled new and existing mineralogical and geochemical data on Fe-Mn mineralization from the Aegean region [Attica (Grammatiko, Legrena, and Varnavas), Evia and Milos islands], aiming to provide new insights on the genesis of Fe-Mn mineralization in that region and its potent...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Charalampos Vasilatos, Evdokia E. Kampouroglou, Ifigeneia Megremi, Maria Economou-Eliopoulos
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2022-10-01
Series:Minerals
Subjects:
Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2075-163X/12/10/1303
Description
Summary:In this study, we have compiled new and existing mineralogical and geochemical data on Fe-Mn mineralization from the Aegean region [Attica (Grammatiko, Legrena, and Varnavas), Evia and Milos islands], aiming to provide new insights on the genesis of Fe-Mn mineralization in that region and its potential environmental implications. A common feature of those deposits is the relatively low Cr, Co, V, Ni, Mo, and Cd content, whereas Ba, As, W, Cu, Pb, and Zn show remarkably variable values. The Mn-Fe deposits from Milos exhibit the highest tungsten content, while a positive trend between MnO and W, combined with a negative trend between MnO and Fe<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub> suggests the preference of W to Mn-minerals. The occurrence of bacterio-morphic Fe-Mn-oxides/hydroxides within Mn-Fe mineralizations in the studied region, indicates the important role of micro-organisms into redox reactions. Moreover, the presence of micro-organisms in the Fe-Mn-deposits, reflecting the presence of organic matter confirms a shallow marine environment for their deposition. A salient feature of the Varnavas and Milos Mn-Fe ores is the presence of sodium chloride coated fossilized micro-organisms, suggesting development from a solution containing relatively high Na and Cl concentrations. Furthermore, from an environmental point of view, consideration is given to the bioavailability of elements such as As, Pb, and W, related to the above-mentioned mineralizations. The high bio-accumulation factor for W (W<sub>plant</sub>/W<sub>soil</sub> × 100) recorded in the Neogene sedimentary basins of Attica, related to the Grammatiko Fe-Mn mineralization, reflects the high W mobility under alkaline conditions and the potential environmental impact of similar deposits with elevated W content.
ISSN:2075-163X