TITLE:
Exoscopy of Detrital Zircons from Niamey Neoproterozoic Sandstones (Eastern Edge of the West African Craton, Southwestern Niger): Interpretation of Detrital Sediments Provenance
AUTHORS:
Hassan Ibrahim Maharou, Karimou Laouali Idi, Diafarou Alzouma Amadou, Salissou Abdoul Ganiou Amadou, Gnissa Sidibé, Moussa Konaté
KEYWORDS:
Exoscopic Analysis, Detrial Zircon Grains, U-Pb Ages, Niamey Neoproterozoic Sandstones, Niamey Region
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Geology,
Vol.14 No.5,
May
28,
2024
ABSTRACT: This study focuses on exoscopic analyses of detrital zircon grains of Archean and Paleoproterozoic age, contained in the sediments from the Niamey Neoproterozoic sandstones (Niamey region), with a view to confirming the sediments sources already proposed (Kénéma-Man domain for Archean-age zircons and Baoulé Mossi domain for Paleoproterozoic-age zircons). Exoscopic analysis reveals that Archean zircon grains are more corroded, with rounded to sub-rounded shapes, while Paleoproterozoic zircon grains are less corroded and mostly angular in shape. The strong corrosion of Archean zircon grains, implying long-distance transport, is consistent with the remoteness of the Kenema-Man domain which are the source these sediments. The fact that the Paleoproterozoic zircon grains show little or no wear implies a proximal source of sediments, corresponding to the Baoulé Mossi domain.