Zn-Pb-Ba-Cu mineralization potential of the shallow-water carbonates of the Musayr Formation (Midyan Basin, NW Saudi Arabia) King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)

Overview

Sedimentary basins are fundamental to sustainable development, serving as key reservoirs of water, energy, and mineral resources. Among sediment-hosted mineral deposits, low-temperature carbonate-hosted Zn-Pb systems are especially significant. 

Key Facts

The origin of mineralization in this unit is currently enigmatic, particularly because known mineralized zones along the Red Sea margin are typically hosted in a different stratigraphic intervals. The main objective of the Zn-Pb-Ba-Cu mineralization potential of the shallow-water carbonates of the Musayr Formation (Midyan Basin, NW Saudi Arabia) at  King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)  is to determine the geological controls on mineralization within the Musayr Formation, with a focus on understanding: 

• Lateral facies variability and stratigraphic architecture of the Musayr Fm, using a sequence stratigraphic approach 

• Ecological assemblages and microfacies characteristics of the carbonate system 

• Establish a tectonic context 

• The spatial relationship between mineralization and structural features (e.g., fault zones) 

• Understanding geochemical conditions necessary for Zn-Pb-Ba mineralization This study forms the first step of a broader research initiative aimed at assessing the mineralization potential of Miocene carbonates along the Red Sea margin. Deciphering the controls on ore formation in the Musayr Formation will provide a crucial piece of this regional puzzle and may lead to the identification of new exploration targets.