Banded iron formation to iron ore: A record of the evolution of Earth environments?

Abstract

Banded iron formations (BIF) are the protolith to most of the world’s largest iron ore deposits. Previous hypogene genetic models for Paleoproterozoic “Lake Superior” BIF-hosted deposits invoke upwards, down-temperature flow of basinal brines via complex silica and carbonate precipitation/dissolution processes. Such models are challenged by the necessary SiO2 removal. Thermodynamic and mass balance constraints are used to refine conceptual models of the formation of BIF-hosted iron-ore. These constraints, plus existing isotope and halogen ratio evidence, are consistent with removal of silica by down- or up-directed infiltration of high-pH hypersaline brines, with or without a contribution from basinal brines. The proposed link to surface environments suggest that Paleoproterozoic BIF-ore upgrade may provide a record of a critical time in the evolution of the Earth’s biosphere and hydrosphere.