Prospección y exploración geoquimica de litio en parroquia La Victoria, cantón Arenillas, El Oro

Abstract

Abstract: The current study focused on the identification of lithium mineralization in the La Florida Unit, located in the La Victoria parish, Cantón Arenillas, El Oro. The methodology used included bibliographic review, sample taking, laboratory work, and chemical and mineralogical analyses, followed by data analysis. The results include the analysis of 15 samples collected throughout the study area. These samples were subjected to XRF, XRD and ICP-OES assays, providing detailed information on the chemical and mineralogical composition, including quantification of lithium concentration. This facilitated the interpretation and statistical analysis of the data, allowing the preparation of geochemical maps of the elements. The discussion of the project indicates that, despite previous indications of favorable lithologies for lithium deposits in the La Florida Unit, no presence of lithium or pegmatitic rocks was detected in the study polygon. However, related rocks were identified, such as granodiorites and diorites. In the conclusions, the presence of a significant concentration of geological elements, linked to lithium mineralization, such as potassium and zinc, stands out. This suggests the possibility of the existence of lithium mineralization in other areas of the La Florida Unit. Additional analysis is recommended in this unit for a more thorough understanding.