In-situ trace elements and sulfur isotope compositions of sulfides in the Yangla Sb-W deposit, Yunnan: Constraints on ore-forming fluid evolution and material sources

Key Points

• To clarify the ore-forming mechanisms of the Yangla Sb-W deposit by analyzing trace elements and sulfur isotopes of sulfides.
• Conducted field geological surveys and petrographic observations.
• Divided mineralization processes into five stages and performed in-situ micro-element and sulfur isotope analyses.
• Utilized LA-ICP-MS and LA-MC-ICP-MS techniques to analyze sulfides.
• S1-S3 stages of pyrite showed low Co, high Te, and low Se characteristics, indicating medium to low temperature reducing fluid conditions.
• The continuous decrease in Co content suggests cooling and thermal mixing, while increased pH values led to the precipitation of antimony and tungsten minerals.
• Sulfur isotope values in different stages indicated that mineralization mainly sourced from crustal granite, with early contributions from biogenic sulfur.