Thermochronological constraints on the exhumation history of the Carboniferous Katebasu gold deposit, western Tianshan gold belt, NW China

Abstract The western Tianshan Gold Belt hosts numerous giant and large gold deposits that have been formed during the late Paleozoic amalgamation of orogen. However, little is known about their exhumation histories Mesozoic to Cenozoic intracontinental evolution Carboniferous Katebasu orogenic deposit in northwestern China a new discovery within Belt, it shares many similarities with other belt. In this contribution, 40 Ar/ 39 Ar (U–Th)/He ages were combined previous geochronology numerical modelling quantify its post-Carboniferous cooling history. results revealed three-phase history two phases post-mineralization exhumation. We suggest volume ( c. 0.8 km) mineralized roof parts might removed uplift erosion, whereas significant ore reserves could still exist at depth. erosion depth Nalati Range Chinese also signifies shallow-emplaced porphyry epithermal systems prior Permo-Triassic largely eroded.