Mineralogical and Geochemical Characterization of the Sta. Cruz Nickel Laterite Deposit, Zambales, Philippines

In this study, we present mineralogical and geochemical characterization of samples systematically collected from a nickel laterite profile at the Sta. Cruz deposit, Zambales, Philippines. Wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (WDSXRF), mass-balance element mobility calculations, transmitted reflected light microscopy, previously reported results coupled diffraction (XRD) Rietveld refinement analyses reveal that investigated is composed two main horizons—the limonite saprolite zones—separated by thin transitional zone. Based primarily on mineral assemblage major chemistry, zones are further subdivided into subzones: upper limonite, lower zone, saprolite, saprolite. Garnierite veins were observed cutting subzones. Investigation structure goethite within zone via shows crystallinity decreases with increasing Ni content crystallite size. This suggests upwards through as ages, its increases, which possibly in removal crystal eventual remobilization to zones.