Munadgee Uranium Prospect, Northern Territory Survey and Radiometric Data.

Abstract

A recent survey of the structures of the Munadgee Uranium prospect has revealed two measurable factors related to the control on the deposition of the uranium enrichment. The area has been subjected to a multiplicity of orogenic movements resulting in folding, cleaving, fracturing and shearing of the uranium containing rocks. However, the homogeneous nature of the major rock type, a volcanic series, has resulted in the majority of the deformational stresses being absorbed in particle slip shearing and cleavage rather than within major fracture zones. It is considered, therefore, that the distribution of the uranium in the area is controlled by deep seated structures. These structures are reflected in the surface rocks by jointing and minor faulting and cleavage. The uranium enrichments already exposed in exploration conform reasonably closely with the pattern of control determined by rock measurements. The small size and the inclination of the known ore body suggests that any other shoots existing in the area will be difficult to intersect by percussion or diamond drilling. A shallow horizontal spread of radio-active material away from ore centres related to weathering is apparent and this sone can be detected by drilling. It is suggested that exploration techniques should make more use of complete bed rock exposure by trenching and costeaning.