VOLUME 62 . SEPTEMBER 2020
INSIDE: Integrated geoscientific
Integrated geoscientific mapping in Giyani and surrounding areas during mapping in Giyani and the COVID-19 pandemic I 1 Ndivhuwo Cecilia Mukosi surrounding areas during
Ten years of work to map and describe a drowned, extinct the COVID-19 pandemic landscape I 4 Hayley Cawthra
Geoscience research enabled by integrated stakeholder engagement I 6 Mbuyiseni Ngcobo
Rare-earth element minerals in Molteno coal and the implications for REE extractability I 9 Themba Mothupi
Hats off to the graduates! I 11 Dan Leshomo
The CEO, Mr Mosa Mabuza, addressing community leaders at Khakhala Village, about 20 km west from the Repurposing underutilised basalt town of Giyani in the Limpopo Province. and dolerite resources: resetting market perspectives of a low-value industrial resource to drive post- The Council for Geoscience (CGS) Letaba, Collins Chabane, Makhado and Covid economic growth I 14 recently embarked on an integrated and Thulamela Local Municipalities. Of these Vindina Mitha multidisciplinary geoscience mapping municipalities, a large portion of the study programme to systematically cover South area is located in the Greater Giyani Africa in detail in support of government’s Local Municipality. The northeastern economic recovery plan for the country. part of the area falls within the ambit The results of the work completed in of the Kruger National Park, which is 2018/19 for the Giyani mapping project part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier laid the foundation for the current Park, extending to Mozambique. The integrated geoscientific mapping project aims to undertake geoscientific programme of the Giyani Greenstone Belt research to revive mineral exploration (GGB) and surrounding areas. by generating mineral potential targets and to understand the tectonic and Administratively, the study area is part geological setting of the greenstone belt. of the Mopani and Vhembe Districts. The environmental challenges which The local municipalities in the study could potentially have been caused area are the Greater Giyani, Greater by historical mining and exposure to 2 I GeoClips
toxic metals will also be investigated. The research will use an integrated approach, including geological mapping and soil geochemical and geophysical investigations, hydrogeological studies and environmental impact studies related to historical mining investigations.
Owing to the earlier stringent level 5 lockdown restrictions due to COVID-19, stakeholder engagement only began in June 2020 when these restrictions were eased. The CGS delegation led by the CEO, Mr Mosa Mabuza, travelled to the project area to meet and engage with key stakeholders. Engagements took place with local community leaders and municipality staff, the South African Police Service (SAPS) and community members, mostly from villages around Location of the study area in the Limpopo Province, South Africa. the study area. The purpose of the stakeholder engagement was to introduce the project to key stakeholders and to address how integrated mapping might respond to current societal challenges such as access to clean and sustainable water. The project area is part of the semi-arid region of the Limpopo Province and, as such, many villages in the area are faced with major water supply challenges. These challenges are mostly attributable to continued low rainfall, which has resulted in persistent low dam levels. Therefore, groundwater is the only dependable source of water for many communities in the area. Preliminary groundwater results from the analysis of TDS, EC, NO3, Cl, The CGS team conducting follow-up stakeholder engagement at Siandane Village, which is about 5 km away F and As in the project area show that from the town of Giyani. a number of boreholes in the study area register excessive concentrations of these elements. For this reason, the to induct the casual workers, to equip (~5–10 km) as well as shallow depth groundwater is unsuitable for domestic them with geoscientific knowledge and (~2 km). These lines are all perpendicular use without treatment. The high levels to emphasise the importance of the to the structural fabric and proximal to of arsenic in the boreholes may be fieldwork being carried out in the area. presumed important shear zones. associated with sulphide minerals of the So far, 16 casual workers have been GGB rocks which are associated with employed since the beginning of the One of the recommendations of gold mineralisation and historical gold follow-up study. the geochemical synthesis report mining in the area. Further assessments of the Giyani area compiled in related to the quality of the groundwater The magnetotelluric (MT) ground 2018/19 was to verify identified soil and hydrogeological modelling will need geophysical survey conducted in 2018/19 geochemical anomalies and to conduct to be conducted. showed positive results which delineated follow-up fieldwork. Following the the subsurface geometry of shear zones recommendations, nine geochemical Local community members were hired as in the project area. These positive anomalies were selected for further casual workers to assist the CGS team results laid the foundation for the current investigations, based on enriched with fieldwork. Induction and training geophysical survey. The MT survey lines concentrations. The follow-up soil workshops were conducted in late target deep crustal resolution (>15 km geochemical survey was conducted in June and early July 2020, respectively. to view the depth and major structures selected areas within the project area in The purpose of these workshops was of the belt), shallow–intermediate depth July 2020. Data analysis and processing Geoclips - Volume 62 - September 2020 GeoClips I 3
Stakeholder engagement taking place at Mapuve Village, 10 km from Giyani. (Left to right) Councillor Tinyiko Shivuri (Mapuve Village representative) and CGS employees, Ms Ndivhuwo Cecilia Mukosi, Mr David Ngobeni, Mr Mbuso Kwela and Mr Mbuyiseni Ngcobo.
A team comprising a scientist and technical officer Mr Mesolane Ntsuku training casual workers in preparation of the MT ground geophysical survey. collecting soil samples near Mahlathi Village.
Mr Ntsuku demonstrating to the casual workers how to assemble the transmitter in the The CGS team led by Mr Mabuza visiting a small-scale open pit gold mine near field in preparation of the controlled source audio-magnetotelluric survey in the area. the town of Giyani. 4 I GeoClips
will be undertaken next to determine whether the anomalies require further exploration for economic purposes.
The publication of four 1:50 000-scale geological maps (2330AB Lwamondo, 2330AD Magoro, 2330BA Ka-Xitlhelani and 2330BC Giyani) is planned for this year. Current fieldwork will investigate mineralising systems along major structures at historical locations and along new target areas. Historical borehole data will be used to produce a 3D geological model of the study area, which will characterise the gold and base metal mineralisation system(s). Follow- up investigations on nine geochemical anomalies in the study area will further verify/explore their economic potential.
For more information contact: Ndivhuwo Cecilia Mukosi Geoscience Mapping +27 (0)15 295 3471 [email protected] Members of the SAPS accompanied the CGS team in some areas where illegal miners are known to operate.
Ten years of work to map and describe a drowned, extinct landscape
Archaeological sites on the southern the coast outwards onto the exposed Quaternary sea levels fluctuate shores of South Africa hold the world’s continental shelf. This abandonment of constantly and, for most of the last 2.6 richest records for determining the sites by the early inhabitants triggered million years, have been lower than behavioural and cultural origins of a need to understand what lies below present for 90% of the time. During the species. At these locations, researchers the sea. Through a joint submission, last 500 ka, the sea level has shifted have discovered the earliest evidence the team received a grant from the between a highest elevation of +11 m for symbolic behaviour, complex National Geographic Society to fund and a lowest depth of 130 m relative pyrotechnology, projectile weapons and the cost of offshore mapping, forming to the present shoreline. Repeated the first use of foods from the sea – all the basis of Ms Hayley Cawthra’s exposure and drowning of terrestrial dating back as far as 167 000 years PhD study, which was completed in landscapes on what is now the (167 ka). 2014. Since that culmination of the first continental shelf have led to complexity phase of work, the research questions in understanding coastal palaeoscience Back in 2011, the Council for have expanded and developed and records. Geoscience (CGS) teamed up with the team continues to attempt to the Arizona State University Institute unravel as much as possible about the Global changes in relative sea level of of Human Origins to map the seafloor Pleistocene palaeoenvironment. From up to 130 m below present during the in front of Pinnacle Point (Mossel the perspective of the CGS, this has Last Glacial Maximum (19–26.5 ka) Bay) that holds at least 30 sea caves included months of work at sea, dozens and the penultimate glaciations containing Pleistocene archaeological of scuba dives, coring the seafloor and a during human occupation of South deposits. Prof. Curtis Marean has led thorough data mining exercise that has African coasts (~70 ka and ~160 ka) archaeological excavations at Pinnacle relied on legacy data. From a research have had a profound influence on Point since the early 2000s and the perspective, in the last ten years, the the movement of the earliest Homo work has demonstrated large hiatuses “Palaeoscape” project has developed an Sapiens ancestors. Vast coastal plains in the records, resulting from times of entirely new way to reconstruct “palaeo- and, hence, a significant portion of low sea levels when people followed ecologies” or ancient ecosystems. prehistory, were drowned during the Geoclips - Volume 62 - September 2020 GeoClips I 5
A. Looking out onto the Palaeo-Agulhas Plain from the cave entrance at Pinnacle Point, South Africa. Left is an artist’s impression of the research site ~20 000 years ago during glacial phases and lower sea levels and right is where the ocean is today within metres of the cave entrances at high tide. Image credit: Dr Erich Fisher. B. Onshore topography and offshore bathymetry with the mapped area of the Palaeo- Agulhas Plain for context.
presented. The research approach intertwines geophysical, biotic and anthropological evidence to produce an emergent system greater than the sum of its parts. This now mostly submerged 85 000 km2 region off the Cape south coast has had a profound and lasting effect on modern biological and anthropological landscapes. The Palaeo- Agulhas Plain extends southwards from the Cape Floristic Region (CFR), a region renowned for its high levels of plant biodiversity and endemism, and the most species-rich of all Mediterranean-climate ecosystems. In addition to this floristic marine transgressions that ensued. and South African supercomputers – diversity, the CFR is also home to the There is increasing scientific evidence to simulate glacial climate conditions. deepest record of early human cognitive that traces of this unique prehistory The team used this climate output to and social evolution – particularly in have been preserved on the South drive a vegetation model. Coupled multiple archaeological sites facing out African continental shelf, alongside with marine geophysics and sampling, on to the Palaeo-Agulhas Plain from growing awareness of cultural continuity. isotopic studies of stalagmites and the neo-coastline. Although Dingle and Around the world, the nature of human many other transdisciplinary avenues Rogers** (1972) had already recognised occupation of submerged coastal of research, the model output was the plain as an important component landscapes has rapidly emerged as a validated and refined. of the southern African landscape, only key topic in Quaternary science in the recently could its potential ecological last decade, bolstered by enhancements The special issue publication significance and uniqueness be in marine geophysical mapping methods represents a unique example of a truly appreciated through the application that have vastly improved in the last transdisciplinary palaeoscience effort, of modern technologies. Evidence 15–20 years. and a new model for going forward with presented throughout the work of Dingle research to recreate the nature of past and Rogers and the recent investigations Archaeological data from the Cape south ecosystems. The special issue covers carried out strongly suggests the coast show that the seafloor was the themes of geoscience, palaeoclimate, Palaeo-Agulhas Plain was not simply prime foraging habitat for early modern palaeobotany, anthropology and an extension of the modern Cape humans and, until recently, not much computer modelling. Importantly, these environment, but a unique ecosystem was known about this. That has now results have helped in understanding why unlike any existing in the world today. changed after a decade of work that the archaeological records from these Unlike the deeply dissected, undulating has culminated in the publication of 22 southern South African sites consistently landscape and high-energy erosional articles in a special issue* of Quaternary reveal early and complex levels of human systems of the coastal foreland, the Science Reviews entitled “The Palaeo- behaviour and culture. The Palaeo- Palaeo-Agulhas Plain was relatively flat, Agulhas Plain: a lost world and extinct Agulhas Plain, when exposed, was a with wide meandering rivers. Coastlines ecosystem”. The team has also compiled fertile landscape, positioned next to some of the Palaeo-Agulhas Plain, dominated a CGS special publication map, the first of the richest coastlines in the world. This by beaches and aeolianite outcrops, of its kind globally. unique confluence of food from the land lacked the rocky cliff coasts typical of and sea arguably cultivated the complex much of the CFR’s south coast today. Work on the Cape south coast cultures revealed by the archaeology. Only a remnant of the marine sediments palaeoscape began with using the high- and alluvium that characterised the resolution South African regional climate In this special issue, a fully integrated Palaeo-Agulhas Plain exists on the model – running on United States model of an extinct ecosystem is modern coast near Cape Agulhas, and 6 I GeoClips
the largely fertile soils of the Palaeo- Agulhas Plain contrast starkly with the impoverished soils of the contemporary coastal platform. The physiographic regime of the Palaeo-Agulhas Plain comprised ecosystems very different to the modern contemporary coastal lowlands, including vast areas of nutritious grassland and savannah, numerous wetlands, and a soft and highly dynamic coastline. The productivity of the terrestrial ecosystems supported a diverse and abundant plains fauna that included several megaherbivores not known from the region today. The emergent picture of this missing part of the landscape provides a new window to the context of early modern human evolution as well as the evolution of the modern CFR.
In organising the papers in the published volume, the editorial team set the stage with the development of the underlying palaeoenvironmental models and proxy evidence (e.g. geology, soils, vegetation, climate and the dynamic impact of sea- level change). With the establishment of the palaeoscape, the human-centred “resourcescape” was then explored, with a specific focus on building the datasets to inform human behavioural ecology models. This approach is critical to understanding and producing formal models of human environmental interactions. Finally, examples of how to integrate the palaeoscape and resourcescape into predictive (agent- based) models that can be used to Geological map of the Palaeo-Agulhas Plain, timestamped at the Last Glacial Maximum (~20 000 years before develop specific hypotheses about the present). The seafloor was exposed as a landscape and the sea level was 130 m lower than present. On the anthropological record were provided. Cape south coast shelf, this opened up 85 000 km2 of plains that are now drowned by high sea levels.
*The special issue is titled: The Palaeo- Agulhas Plain: A lost world and extinct **The cited reference is: Dingle, R.V. For more information contact: ecosystem, edited by Naomi Cleghorn, and Rogers, J., 1972. Pleistocene Hayley Cawthra Alastair J. Potts and Hayley C. Cawthra, palaeogeography of the Agulhas Bank. Geoscience Mapping published in May 2020 in Quaternary +27 (0)21 943 6700 Transactions of the Royal Society of Science Reviews. DOI: 10.1016/j. [email protected] quascirev.2020.106308. South Africa, 40, pp. 155–465. Geoscience research enabled by integrated stakeholder engagement
Since March 2020, the Council for as an enabler for the implementation approach focusses on building coherent Geoscience (CGS) has adopted a new of the Integrated and Multidisciplinary relationships with key stakeholders approach to stakeholder engagement Geoscience Mapping Programme. This for the successful implementation of Geoclips - Volume 62 - September 2020 GeoClips I 7
CGS projects and to demonstrate the integral role of geoscience in solving socio-economic constraints for the benefit of society. Integrated stakeholder engagement lays the foundation for the scientific work to be implemented by the CGS. Initial engagements were led by the Management team of the CGS to demonstrate the role of science in the upliftment of communities. Several consultative meetings were held amongst spheres of government, traditional leaderships, the farming community and the public primarily to enable the CGS scientists to gain access to public and private land for the execution of geoscience research. The CEO, Mr Mosa Mabuza, presenting the work of the CGS to the Tribal Council of Basani, about 23 km near The CGS has been directed to contribute the town of Giyani. to the economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and this has led to the reprioritisation and rethinking of how CGS projects are implemented. Additionally, it became time to review the stakeholder engagement programme. To this end, the CGS has consistently upheld the prescribed health and safety standards in all the engagements that have taken place during the strict COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. The CGS continues to exercise precautionary health and safety measures, as stipulated in the Regulations and Guidelines of the Disaster Management Act of 2002.
The CGS officials have been diligently adhering to the Covid-19 regulations through the usage of Personal Protective CGS officials and casual workers employed by the CGS working in the field in greater Giyani. Equipment (PPE) such as masks and sanitisers as well as maintaining social distancing. In addition, the CGS donated projects implemented by the CGS has representatives of the communities, have branded cloth masks to communities focussed on the collection of fundamental taken place. Owing to the collaborative with whom it interacted to demonstrate geoscience data, which can have a far- nature of the engagements, communities its commitment to the health and safety reaching impact in addressing many of often actively participate in the CGS of these communities, while at the same the development shortfalls experienced projects. As a result, 16 local casual time executing its legislated mandate. in the different regions. The following workers were employed on a rotational geoscience applications are being basis to assist the various geophysics, The stakeholder engagements were led utilised to gather the data: geoscience geochemistry and hydrogeology teams by the CEO, Mr Mosa Mabuza, whereby mapping, geological modelling and on the ground. This initiative is part of the he presented an overview of the activities geotechnical, geophysical, geochemical CGS’s commitment to capacity building in of the CGS, elaborating on the ongoing and hydrogeological applications. the communities. There are also ongoing geoscience research projects in the engagements with various academic various provinces of South Africa. In The prioritised stakeholder engagements institutions to explore possible areas these meetings, Mr Mabuza emphasised include the Giyani Greenstone Belt of collaboration. that the CGS prides itself as a science project in the Limpopo Province where council in empowering the people of iterative engagement sessions with key For the Maluti groundwater study project, South Africa with scientific evidence stakeholders in the Greater Giyani and the CGS delegation, led by Mr Mabuza, that underpins sustainable development Collins Chabane Local Municipalities, held stakeholder engagement meetings in society. The overall basis of the such as the traditional leaderships and with the King of Bakoena, Morena 8 I GeoClips
Moremoholo Mopeli, in QwaQwa, Free State Province. The Bakoena Royal Council coordinated a multi-stakeholder meeting with the MEC of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), the Maluti-A-Phofung Local Municipality, and representatives of Sedibeng Water and Free State Province Water and Sanitation. The project is currently underway and a memorandum of understanding has been drafted to enable collaboration and guide the exchange of data. CGS scientists have The CGS team presenting their work to the Bakoena Royal Council and Mr Mabuza addressing representatives finalised the data analysis in preparation at the Maluti-a-Phofung stakeholder meeting. for the drilling planned to start soon.
The Maluti groundwater study extends to the Bergville area in KwaZulu-Natal and engagements are ongoing with the AmaNgwane Traditional Council and other traditional leaderships.
In the Western Cape, the Karoo Deep Drilling project is progressing well and a number of stakeholder engagement meetings have taken place as part of the public participation requirement of the project. These have included meetings with the Central Karoo District Municipality and Beaufort West Local Engagement sessions with stakeholders elaborating on the drilling of the deep borehole in the Beaufort West area. Municipality leaderships followed by meetings with members of the community. The drilling of the deep was welcomed and supported by the take place in Mthatha and surrounding borehole will commence within the next Premier. This engagement resulted in areas. This initiative is part of the weeks. This is one of the prioritised a series of meetings with the Northern erosion and hydrogeology study in projects of the Geoscience Technical Cape agricultural associations, Agri Mthatha. His Majesty, King Zwelibanzi Programme of the CGS. This project Northern Cape and the Orange River Dalindyebo, granted permission for is implemented in tandem with the Agricultural Union. this work to commence immediately. Petroleum Agency of South Africa. In order to maximise CGS efforts, The CGS held stakeholder engagement introductory meetings were held with The CGS held a meeting with the sessions with the AbaThembu Royal the King Sabata Dalindyebo and Northern Cape Premier, where it House to discuss the optical stimulated Makana Local Municipalities in Mthatha presented its value proposition, which luminescence sampling scheduled to and Makhanda, respectively. These
Mr Mabuza and Dr Dhansay co-presenting the erosion and hydrogeology assessment project in Mthatha to His Majesty, King Zwelibanzi Dalindyebo and members of the Royal House Council. Geoclips - Volume 62 - September 2020 GeoClips I 9
municipalities are beginning to see the In order to accelerate this project, expressed their willingness to work with value of collaborating with the CGS, the CGS has commenced with a the CGS in building and maintaining especially on developmental issues. stakeholder engagement programme an effective and constructive The engagements have presented an in the Mpumalanga Province to solicit partnership underpinned by trust and opportunity for the CGS to demonstrate the support of the province to conduct community development. its geoscience expertise in responding extensive site characterisation. to societal challenges. Mpumalanga is earmark based on
its geology and proximity to CO2 For more information contact: The CGS has been designated emission sources. Mbuyiseni Ngcobo to implement the Carbon Capture Communication and Stakeholder Utilisation and Storage project that As noted above, most communities, Relations +27 (0)12 841 1299 was undertaken by the South African traditional authorities, municipalities [email protected] National Energy Development Institute. and provincial governments have
Rare-earth element minerals in Molteno coal and the implications for REE extractability
Rare-earth elements (REEs) are coal increases the economic viability of REEs in the crystal structure. The recognised as a critical constituent in the area. two minerals are important accessory many technologies that are essential to minerals that dictate the distribution of modern life. They are 17 elements made Micro-analytical techniques such as the REEs in rocks such as granitoids and up of lanthanides (atomic numbers 57 scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and rhyolites. Therefore, the REE mineral to 71) grouped with scandium (Sc) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) distribution in the Molteno coal samples yttrium (Y) based on similarities in their are useful in identifying REE minerals was no different from typical REE mineral chemical properties. REEs are more in coal. The knowledge is useful in distribution in granitoids. Parisite, a abundant than precious metals (gold, gauging the potential recoverability of minor REE mineral, was only detected in silver and platinum), with cerium (Ce) the REEs from coal. Three samples from one sample. being the most abundant REE. Ce is Molteno, with a total REE concentration more common than copper and lead in of up to 454 ppm, were submitted The REE minerals in the samples had the earth's crust. The REEs are so called for mineralogical and morphological a wider size distribution, ranging from because of their unique geochemical analyses using SEM-EDS. Polished submicron (<1 µm) to 35 µm. The REE properties, rarely forming economically mounts of the samples were prepared minerals in two samples were mainly viable ore deposits. However, REEs and coated with carbon to avoid charge rounded and found in the coal-clay are increasingly required in defence accumulation during analysis. A Carl matrix. Fewer REE minerals were systems, renewable energy technologies, Zeiss Sigma 300 field emission gun irregular in shape, others were eroded electronic products, magnets, batteries (FEG) SEM equipped with a 30 mm2 and locked in clay minerals and quartz. and catalysts. As the global demand Bruker X-flash EDS detector with Bruker Rounding and the association with for REEs increases, the search for Esprit software was used. The instrument silicates (clay and quartz) indicated that unconventional sources, such as coal, conditions were 20 KV with a working the REE minerals were detrital and did becomes more crucial, particularly for distance of 10 mm and a beam current not form in situ. The likely source of the countries that are highly dependent on of 100 nA. Backscattered electron REE minerals was the erosion of the their import. South Africa has large coal (BSE) images of the REE minerals granitoids and other related rocks. reserves, with an opportunity to recover were captured with the corresponding REEs if their mode of occurrence is EDS spectra. The minerals in the coal-clay matrix known. The Council for Geoscience are likely to be easily liberated during (CGS) has completed a preliminary REE minerals were detected representing coal washing and concentrate in the measurement and quality assessment three phases: dimorphs monazite and silicate-rich discard. The REE minerals of the Molteno–Indwe coalfield in the xenotime as well as the REE-carbonate are amenable to physical upgrading by Eastern Cape Province. The coalfield parisite. Monazite, which hosted most gravity or magnetic separation, leaching has 321 million tonnes of coal that is REEs and other grains, had radioactive by acid or base, and finally purification potentially economically exploitable. thorium (Th) in addition. In the earth’s by ion exchange, before precipitation The CGS has indicated that a modular crust, monazite and xenotime are the as REE oxides. Alternatively, the REEs coal-fired power station, using clean- most common REE minerals. Monazite can be recovered from the ash after coal technology, will be feasible in the preferably incorporates lighter REEs combustion in the boiler through the area and that the presence of REEs in whereas xenotime incorporates heavier leaching process. Recovery depends 10 I GeoClips
REE minerals in three coal samples from the Molteno–Indwe coalfield. Monazite (Th)
REE mineral Formula Approximate REO % MB 9B MB 11 MK 17
Monazite (REE,Th) PO4 65 15 5 9
Xenotime YPO4 61 4 - 1
Parisite Ca(REE)2(CO3)3F2 61 2 - -
Total 21 5 10
Xenotime
Monazite
Parisite
EDS spectra of the REE minerals detected in the samples.
mainly on association, with locked REE minerals being impossible to upgrade physically and inaccessible to leaching reagents. Milling to liberate the locked REE phases from the gangue minerals is possible but will likely make the process more costly. BSE images of the REE minerals in the Molteno samples. Sample MB 9B: (a) monazite grain with smooth edges in a coal-clay matrix; (b) rounded monazite grain in a clay-coal matrix; (c) irregular parisite grain in coal; Based on the mineralogical results, there (d) rounded zircon hosting submicron monazite grain. Sample MB 11, rounded monazite grain in a coal-clay is a significant potential to recover REEs matrix. Sample MK 17: (a) elongated and eroded monazite grain in clay; (b) irregular and eroded xenotime grain from the Molteno coal. However, detailed in clay; (c) rectangular monazite grain in quartz. research to understand how REEs can be Geoclips - Volume 62 - September 2020 GeoClips I 11
extracted efficiently and cost-effectively REE recovery processes. Therefore, is required. Furthermore, research in detailed REE deportment studies of For more information contact: Themba Mothupi chemical and physical characterisation the mineralised coal using SEM-EDS, Laboratory Services to determine REE elemental distributions electron probe micro-analysis and laser +27 (0)12 841 1368 and REE phase compositions in coal ablation inductively coupled plasma mass [email protected] is vital to developing economical spectroscopy should be conducted. Hats off to the graduates!
Congratulations to the Council for Geoscience (CGS) staff who recently received their Doctoral and Master’s degrees. The graduates are Thomas Muedi, Michelle Grobbelaar, Shonisani Magatshavha, Sisanda Makubalo, Nthabiseng Mashale, Mdumiseni (Mdu) Mazibuko, Prudence Mokoena, Ngqondi Nxokwana, Abraham Thomas, Minenhle Buthelezi and Sinesihle Khalimashe.
Thomas Muedi (Geoscience Mapping) received his PhD (Geology) degree from the Nelson Mandela University with his dissertation, Early Jurassic dolerites of the Karoo Large Igneous Province (KLIP): an analysis of their age and emplacement history from sea level to the Drakensberg Mountains in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Thomas Muedi with his promoter, Prof. Maarten de Wit. The Karoo dolerites in the Eastern Cape represent igneous rocks across the KLIP that record the initial separation were developed using confined blasts in forensic seismology to determine the between Africa and Antarctica. Dr Muedi that were detonated with the intention of details of an unexpected explosion. provides isotope and geochemical data breaking rock for mining or tunnelling. demonstrating how and when these The aim of the thesis was to determine Shonisani Magatshavha (Internal extrusive rocks intruded from sea level whether the predictive equations Audit) received a Master of Business to nearly 2 000 m close to Lesotho. His developed for confined explosions can be Administration (MBA) from the Graduate results indicate that the KLIP was formed used to predict the effects from surface School of Business Leadership (SBL) of within less than 750 thousand years explosions, with appropriate adjustments the University of South Africa. Her thesis during a transition period that marks a to the various coefficients. was titled: The relationship between global extension event 183 million years human resource practices, transparent ago across the southernmost section Three predictive equations developed for organisational communication of the Gondwana supercontinent. His buried explosions were tested. The study and organisational learning in the results provide new information on showed that the United States Bureau public sector. how past climate change drove linked of Mines peak particle velocity predictive continental and oceanic ecosystems. equation is the most reliable. In addition, The core objective of her research was the study showed that a predictive to provide adequate solutions to one Michelle Grobbelaar (Engineering and equation that uses the secondary of the endemic challenges in the public Geohazards) obtained an MSc degree atmospheric shock wave phenomenon sector, namely effective organisational from the University of the Witwatersrand produced better results. The method uses learning. Organisational learning with her thesis, titled Predicting the the scaled delay time parameter that is depicts a change in an organisation’s effects of explosions placed on the easier to measure. These equations may knowledge that occurs as a function earth’s surface. be utilised for demolition sites where of experience. In order to achieve old and potentially unstable explosives this change, the research set out to Most equations used to predict the and obsolete equipment are destroyed investigate the relationship between ground motion produced by explosions at the ground surface and for assisting three key factors in the public sector, i.e. 12 I GeoClips
human resource practices, transparent and kriging to produce maps of potential Orange River Catchment for base metals, organisational communication and carnotite mineralisation. Prieska, Northern Cape, South Africa. organisational learning. Evidence from the research showed that even The salinity of the water varies from The Areachap Terrane which is part of though there is a definite correlation fresh to seawater, averaging 2 500 mg/L, the Namaqua-Natal Belt in the Northern between all three factors, transparent with the pH in the 7–9 range. Major ion Cape Province has volcanic-hosted organisational communication stands abundances indicate marine aerosol as Zn-Cu deposits. The primary objective out as the most important factor in the main source of Cl, Na, Mg and K, with of the study was to map base-metal ensuring organisational learning. rock weathering being more responsible mineralisation, determine the heavy-
Furthermore, organisational learning is for Ca and HCO3. Nitrate is occasionally metal contents and delineate targets a continuous process that also relates to high, the random distribution indicating for follow-up studies. The spatial joint innovation. Employees are encouraged farm animals as the source. Fluoride analysis tool was used to calculate the both to acquire and produce new averages 2.4 mg/L and is strongly elements associated with their respective knowledge and, in this way, to improve geologically controlled, but clearly lithostratigraphies. The fuzzy OR overlay organisational performance. Managers in enriched through evaporation. Uranium, operation was applied to combine maps the public sector can assist government averaging 0.155 mg/L (five times the of relevant indicator elements. The to retain and grow knowledge by guideline), has a complex distribution concentrations of As, Ba, Ce, Cr, Cu, Hf, ensuring that there is transparent uncorrelated with bedrock geology Nd, Ni, Rb, Sr, S, V, Zr and Zn showed organisational communication. and is enriched through evaporation a heterogeneous spatial distribution, or precipitation of secondary uranium reflected by a high coefficient of variation Sisanda Makubalo (Geoscience minerals. Uranium may not necessary and large standard deviation. These Mapping) completed her MSc degree in leach from the granites and gneisses element concentrations are extremely Hydrogeology at the University of Pretoria into the groundwater, even if these rocks elevated in the stream sediments. with her thesis, Hydrogeochemistry of the are enriched in uranium. The solubility of There was a very high Cu-Zn correlation groundwater in the Namaqualand region, uranium in the groundwater is controlled coefficient calculated for samples near South Africa: implications for surficial by pH and Eh conditions. Uranium mostly the Copperton deposit. The Cr and Ni 2- uranium mineralisation. occurs in solution as UO2(CO3)2 and reflect ultramafic fraction of the stream 4- UO2(CO3)3 at a pH range between 5.5 sediments, and the Cr, Ni anomaly was Since the discovery of the Yeelirrie and 8 and an Eh range between -0.5 and traced along the catchment. Normal Q-Q deposit in Australia in 1972, exploration +0.8 in the presence of carbonates. plots for S, Zn, Pb and Ba have similar for surficial uranium deposits has been trends with outliers of the high coefficient supported through hydrogeochemical The CSI values ranged from -6.71 to of variations. The high Cu, Zn and Pb studies of groundwater and the -2.99 with those ranging from 2.99 to -4 in are derived from the ore mineral related calculation of the carnotite solubility close proximity to known surficial uranium volcanogenic massive sulfide deposits. index (CSI). Groundwater sampling occurrences. The use of the IDW and was conducted in Namaqualand to kriging interpolation methods revealed Mdumiseni (Mdu) Mazibuko (Human investigate groundwater quality, to 28 areas with potential for carnotite Resources) completed a Master of establish the distribution of surficial mineralisation. The existence of suitable Business Leadership (MBL) degree uranium mineralisation and to delineate uranium source rocks, palaeochannels, at the Graduate School of Business the uranium potential areas. Surficial climate and geomorphology makes the Leadership (SBL) of the University of uranium deposits are unconsolidated Namaqualand region prospective for South Africa. His thesis, An investigation soils or sediments, usually of Tertiary calcrete-hosted uranium deposits. The of the roles and perceptions of middle to Recent age, with carnotite being CSI method, used to delineate areas managers in change management the most common secondary uranium with a potential for surficial uranium processes: a case study of a state- mineral. Namaqualand in the Northern mineralisation in the Northern Cape, owned entity in South Africa, discusses Cape Province is an arid region with a can be extrapolated to other areas the role and perceptions of middle sparse human population dependent with similar geological environments managers in change management largely upon stock farming. Other and climatic conditions. Given the processes in state-owned entities in minor sectors in the area are mining uranium-related and other water quality South Africa. Mr Mazibuko examined and tourism. The complex Proterozoic risks, further work investigating the the middle managers’ roles, perceptions metamorphic geology is overlain by consequences of cumulative exposure for and understanding of the concept of Cenozoic deposits known for containing plants, animals and humans is warranted. change management to uncover how uranium in places. Eighty-six (86) they experience change management groundwater samples were taken over Nthabiseng Mashale (Economic in the organisation and to explore how an area of 25 000 km2 and analysed Geology and Geochemistry) obtained they could contribute to the successful for various parameters in the field and an MSc in Economic Geology from the implementation of change management. laboratory. The CSI was calculated using University of the Witwatersrand with Purposive sampling was used and the hydrochemical data, and interpolated her thesis, Prospectivity mapping using qualitative method applied through face- using inverse distance weighting (IDW) stream sediment geochemistry along the to-face interviews with eight participants, Geoclips - Volume 62 - September 2020 GeoClips I 13
who were on the middle management analysis. Sediments and water samples composition, total organic content, level in the organisation. were prepared using conventional kerogen maturity and low- and high- hotplate digestion, microwave digestion pressure volumetric adsorption. The data were analysed using the and ultrasound-assisted dispersive thematic content analysis method. The solid-phase microextraction. Firstly, The results showed that the Whitehill findings showed that the participants the effectiveness of acid digestion in and Prince Albert Formations compared had a comprehensive understanding of freshwater sediment samples using favourably with other basins known to the change management concept. The dilute nitric acid on a hotplate was store significant amounts of CO2, such role of middle managers in the change evaluated. Secondly, the microwave- as the Marcellus shale in the USA and management process is significant assisted digestion method using dilute the Irati in Brazil. The possibility of shale for the successful implementation of hydrogen peroxide was developed. The gas exploitation in these formations also organisational change. However, it could methods were successfully applied for presents an opportunity to sequester CO2 also be detrimental to the process if the the quantification of target analytes in in the shales once the natural gas has managers are not involved in all the real soil samples. Lastly, ultrasound- been harvested. change management phases, as per assisted dispersive solid-phase the Kurt Lewin theory of change, which microextraction (UA-DSPME) was carried Abraham Thomas* (Geophysics and is commonly known as the three-step out for water samples using magnetic Remote Sensing) completed a Master theory comprising the following three carbon nanofibers (Fe3O4@CNFs) as an of Business Leadership (MBL) at the phases: unfreezing (where change adsorbent. The developed method had University of South Africa. His thesis, is needed); moving (where change a linear response over 0.1–120 µg L−1 Perceived quality of strategic leadership is initiated), and refreezing (when with acceptable correlation coefficients in a state-owned research institution, equilibrium is established). In essence, greater than 0.0995. The accuracy of focussed on the perceived strategic middle managers should be involved the methods for sediment samples were leadership quality experienced at different right from the change inception phase determined using CRM015 and CRM052, employment tiers through a survey on to its completion since failure to involve with LODs and LOQs ranging between strategic leadership style, strategic them could possibly result in them 0,02–0,09 µg g-1 and 0,07–0,30 µg g-1, thinking/mind-set, strategic decision- resisting the change and, ultimately, in respectively and recoveries ranging from making, strategic alignment and overall an organisational failure to implement the 92–103% at a 95% confidence level. organisational performance. The survey change successfully. All the methods supported the green feedback was analysed using statistical chemistry initiative, as less harmful acids techniques to assess leadership quality The study recommends that middle were used at a shorter analysis time and at different employment tiers and their managers be taken into consideration waste generated during the analysis influence/relationships on organisational when the organisation introduces a was minimised. performance. Perceptions of strategic change by ensuring that they understand leadership quality were assessed by the business reasons behind the change; Ngqondi Nxokwana (Economic Geology examining three components (strategic frequent and consistent communication and Geochemistry) completed his MSc mind-set, strategic decision-making of accurate information during the (Geology) degree at the University of and strategic alignment). Statistically change process is essential, and top Pretoria. His study culminated in the significant findings of strong correlations management should treat middle thesis Physico-chemical properties of (R) and R square values exceeding 0.3 managers as part of their team. These South African shales and siltstones in the were obtained for the linear regression study findings and recommendations context of geological CO2 storage. analyses for exploring relationships can guide organisations towards the between strategic leadership style and successful implementation of change. Mr Nxokwana’s MSc project investigated two variables of strategic leadership the potential of the carbonaceous shales quality (strategic mind-set and strategic Prudence Mokoena (Laboratory of the Ecca Group for geo-sequestration decision-making). For strategic
Services) received an MSc degree of anthropogenic carbon dioxide (CO2). alignment, the correlation was moderate, in Chemistry from the University of This followed recent studies in other and the R square value was 0.282 for Johannesburg. The aim of her thesis, parts of the world, such as the United being statistically significant. The different Development of analytical strategies States of America and Brazil, which linear relationships evident between for extraction, preconcentration and revealed that carbonaceous shales can organisational performance and the determination of trace metals in adsorb significant amounts of CO2 in their components of the perceived quality environmental matrices (water and organic matter known as kerogen. The of strategic leadership experienced at sediments), was to develop sample study targeted the Whitehill and Prince different employment tiers were revealed preparation techniques for the Albert Formations. through correlations. The regression preconcentration/extraction of trace analysis results also confirmed that metals (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, Zn and Fe) To characterise the samples and the perceived quality of strategic in water and sediment samples prior understand their affinity for CO2 leadership has some effect/influence on to inductively coupled plasma optical adsorption, various parameters were the overall organisational performance emission spectrometric (ICP-OES) measured, namely mineralogy, elemental of the institution. The research could 14 I GeoClips
indicate employment tiers that showed UNISA Graduate School of Business For more information contact: weak correlations for the relationship Leadership Research Symposium between strategic leadership quality and Dan Leshomo and his paper was published in the organisational performance. Human Resources Business & Social Sciences Journal. +27 (0)12 841 1210 Abraham Thomas won the second https://www.bssj-re.com/journalsview. [email protected] prize for the best papers of the second php?showdetail=&Journal_ID=57.
Repurposing underutilised basalt and dolerite resources: resetting market perspectives of a low-value industrial resource to drive post- Covid economic growth
Post-Covid societies are hard-pressed to reset and restart their economic engines in the interest of generating more longer- term and far-reaching social, economic and environmental benefits. This is an opportune moment to re-evaluate the efficacy of more mundane mineral resources and to flip conventional uses to allow for the possibility of generating better uses to upgrade intrinsic resource values. In the current context where there is a push towards local sourcing and resourcing, it is imperative to evaluate any market gaps and to respond in a phased upstart to support immediate-, medium- and longer-term economic prosperity.
Garden-variety basalt, together with its intrusive equivalents, is relatively common in most surface environments. Basalts form when volcanoes push molten rocks onto the earth’s surface. Below ground, the rocks are connected to the main chamber by an underground feeding system of cracks and crevices. A good scattering of dolerite and basalt resources of variable composition (blue) occupies the Karoo Basin When cooled, these rocks form intrusions in the main hinterland of South Africa. This is the exposed “plumbing” system to the basalt flows forming the of finer-grained dolerite or, at a deeper majestic Drakensberg escarpment. The Karoo Basin is also surrounded by a wealth of intrusions of similar rock level, coarse-grained gabbro. Together, composition but of variable ages across South Africa. these have a range of novel uses currently unconsidered in the market. coupled with exorbitant costs in link to eradicate chronic childhood
Basalt and dolerite resources are used transportation. The underutilisation of this undernutrition and to sequester CO2 predominantly as high-bulk aggregate abundant resource is attributed largely to Agriculture is set as a vehicle for South where the hardness and relative inertness underindustrialisation in rural provinces Africa’s post-Covid economic recovery make for hard-weathering material, prized and the existence of more suitable but simultaneously creates significant in the construction and maintenance resources in more developed areas. carbon emissions (25% globally) that industries. Resource return is, however, are notoriously difficult to decarbonise. relatively low, with commodity prices The duality of rock dust within Although plants, soils and the oceans are being dictated by distance to market post-Covid food security: a simple natural carbon sinks, atmospheric CO2 is Geoclips - Volume 62 - September 2020 GeoClips I 15
close to the tipping point of immeasurable Upgrading resource return. Rain acts as a delivery to transfer values for dolerite and atmospheric carbon to soil carbon as basalt involves the identification of black it works through the rivers to long-term granite resources storage in the ocean. The resultant acid (polished Eastern Cape rain – a natural atmospheric feedback drill core, bottom left) in mechanism – is no longer suited for the addition to delineating epic, unchecked atmospheric CO of best sources for the basalt 2 product market. A range modern-day times. of basalt fibre products can be generated to One of the proposed drawdown service a wide range of mechanisms suggested is using existing industries and weathering-prone rock dust in agriculture. manufacturing sectors and to infiltrate new markets The theory is that by fast-tracking the where basalt properties far known weathering susceptibility of basalt exceed existing products and dolerite rock dust, weak mineral and compounds. bonds with iron, calcium and magnesium will break down readily, leach nutrients into the soil and simultaneously capture where the warm and humid climate trial drilling at Masaleni ~10 km north
CO2, fixing it into the soil. promotes enhanced weathering, where of Butterworth revealed four types of carbon may be sequestered effectively high-quality jet black to grey granite. In the greater Amathole District in the within mere months. The proximity to major infrastructure Eastern Cape Province, the preferential (the national road network, East London siting of subsistence gardens on dolerite Using rock dust to sequester CO2 may IDZ and the ports of East London and soils demonstrates that the fines (created prove to be the vehicle for eradicating Ngqura) suggests a unique potential by mechanical crushing as unavoidable childhood undernutrition within the gateway for national consumption quarry dust) may render this waste context of post-Covid economic recovery, and international export. Upgrading stream effective as a modern application but more than that, could become one of investments in more higher-grade of indigenous knowledge and wisdom. the ways in which agriculture generates values for the “traditionally aggregate” Combined with modern resources and circular-, ground-up economies by mineral deposits between Butterworth sparked by current necessity, rock dust supplying fresh, high-value produce to and Komga could contribute to ongoing could become the vehicle to additionally urban markets. community prosperity and build address the scourge of chronic childhood community resilience as long-term co- undernutrition through the provision of Amathole “black granite’’: generating benefits in a post-Covid society. produce naturally fortified by rock dust. a Cape-based mineral wealth evolution The Kei River surroundings are poised Basalt products: leveraging longer- The institution of systems and to deliver prime potential for a new term industrial wealth with the local procedures to generate streams of aesthetic industrial mineral – Amathole manufacture of cast basalt and nutritionally dense (and pesticide-free) “black granite”. basalt fibre produce may work in the forgotten With the global slowdown in international agricultural lands of the Amathole region Thick, extensive dolerite sills may be product exchange, countries are the next economic ignition for a long- recognising the importance of maintaining overdue, Cape-based dimension stone domestic capacity for local manufacture industry. The discovery of dimension to replace niche products. The basalt stone east of the Kei River in the late market forms one category of new-age 1980s has shown the occurrence of products that makes sense to produce suitably sized dolerite blocks derived and procure locally, not only from the from thick, voluminous dolerite sills perspective of the wealth found in between Butterworth and Komga. Based suitable raw resources, but also from the on historical trial mining accounts at perspective of local support for internal Willowvale and Bojeni, it is clear that the industries, e.g. mining. intrusions are suited to extraction, as confirmed by the remote assessment of Basalt products are being touted as a Rock dust as a current waste stream is created during fracture patterns of the Butterworth, Kei new-age space-ready material that is the crushing of raw resources into aggregate. Rock Mouth and Komga sills. formed by heating crushed basalt/dolerite dust derived from dolerite and basalt could be used to a molten state and casting it using as an efficient way to sequester CO2 while at the East of the Kei River, where historically standard commercial casting- and fibre- same time shoring up the post-Covid economy and disadvantaged communities have making methods to support production eradicating chronic childhood undernutrition. few minerals-based disbursements, lines according to current needs and functions. Apart from a crushed and consistent compositional supply, the requirement involves little pre-processing in respect of chemical addition or extensive preparation (e.g. in the case of cast products). From feeder to cast or mould, the variety of structured products, from complex and fractional to simple and complete, is limited only by human imagination and current functionality.
Owing to its natural constituent component, basalt products are generally far more environmentally friendly than their current counterparts, especially in the generation of negligible industrial waste. Strength characteristics, abrasion, heat, electrical and chemical resistance and, in the case of cast products, the property of increasing smoothness with time, make basalt products ideal for shoring up hard-wearing applications. Cast basalt products are limited only by human imagination and current needs and are being touted as an These applications are found in power interplanetary colonisation material. Clockwise from top left: cast basalt tile linings, cast basalt tiles in sewerage stations, steel plants, sewerage works, works, cast basalt pipes and linings, and cast basalt in an industrial concrete mixer. and in mechanised and industrialised process components such as bends, pipelines, trenches, disposal chutes, More resources are sure to be earmarked markets. In others, it is to provide a hoppers, cyclones, mill ducts, slag and as the search matures. more holistic ground-up approach to slurry line conveyor belts, washing local economic regeneration. Either way, plants, flotation cells and centrifuges. The current ongoing resource evaluation the aim is the same: resetting market In addition, applications where glass-, envisions a South Africa that engages perspectives to generate upgrades in e- and carbon-fibre are traditionally meaningfully in regional and global industrial mineral wealth and value, in used also benefit from the use of basalt trade by transforming local economies view of resetting the post-Covid economy. products. Furthermore, the potential to with locally produced products derived revolutionise the construction industry, to from releveraging its views towards replace ailing, degrading steel with inert its industrial resource wealth. In some For more information contact: Vindina Mitha basalt rebar has far-reaching implications cases, the aim is to shore up existing Geoscience Mapping for long-term builds. industries (e.g. glass fibre) with smart(er) +27 (0)41 581 1156 technologies using existing resources [email protected] With Africa’s current reliance on to drive new product streams in current external support and technology, the global slowdown presents the double- edged sword that can be sharpened by generating local-base service If you are not on our mailing list and you would like to receive a copy of sectors to support mechanisation and GEOclips, please send an e-mail to: industrialisation in the manufacture and Mahlako Mathabatha, Communication & Stakeholder Relations mining sectors. From a small population [email protected] of Eastern Cape resources, it is already Private Bag X112, Pretoria 0001, South Africa / evident that South Africa has a wealth of 280 Pretoria Street, Silverton, Pretoria 0184, South Africa Tel: +27 (0)12 841 1911 / Fax: +27 (0)12 841 1221 / www.geoscience.org.za raw resources available to generate and maintain an African-based basalt industry.