Trace Element Composition of Pyrite from Selected Black Shale and Chert Exposures in the Central Belt of Peninsular Malaysia: Implications for Mineral Exploration

Sedimentary and hydrothermal pyrites contained in selected Malaysian black shale cherts have been analysed using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma (LA ICP-MS) electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) at the University of Tasmania, Australia. This study shows that gold is concentrated sedimentary pyrite Middle Permian to Late Triassic shales Devonian cherts. According LA ICP-MS analysis, contents varied from 0.5 0.8 ppm Au Permo-Triassic between 0.2 The lowest level (0.3 Au) was observed crops out Selinsing mine. In period, selenium display one peak (average range: 63.4–103.4 Se) far any deposit point (average: 5.3 deposit. content a (72.6–243.8 EPMA data show consistent Se variation periods. Using as proxy for atmospheric oxygenation, period believed decrease recorded found two peaks are interpreted periods increased oxygenation. From an exploration perspective, concentration makes them sources central basin Peninsular Malaysia. Therefore, maximum levels during times correspond stratigraphic potential orogenic mineralisation district. significant values Co over Ni Gua Musang, Semantan, Karak formation shales, indicating volcanic contribution pyrite. Based on current study’s findings, should not be restricted areas around mine, Buffalo Reef, Penjom Tersang Bukit Koman mine but can extended BRSZ Units 1 2, formations belt