| Abstract: | To develop a technique of implementing global ultra-low density geochemical sampling and as a contribution to the International Geochemical Mapping Program (IGCP Project No. 259), an orientation study in the use of deep (lower-layer) overbank sediments was conducted in Jiangxi Province of Southeast China in 1989–1990. Ninety-four samples were collected at depths of 50 to 120 cm from overbank terraces at an average density of 1 site per 1800 km2. The total area of sampled catchment basins is approximately equivalent to 18% of Jiangxi Province. Most of the samples were collected at outflow sites of catchment basins with areas of 100 to 800 km2. The samples were analyzed for 39 elements.The representativity of wide-spaced lower-layer overbank sediment sampling is discussed from various perspectives; the following features have been observed: (1) Widespaced lower-layer overbank sediment data and the data from China's national geochemical mapping (RGNR) project show similar geochemical patterns for W, Sn, Pb, Cu and Zn. (2) The results of wide-spaced lower-layer overbank sediment sampling demonstrate that catchment basins with areas of 100 to 800 km2 are suitable sample site locations for the global geochemical reference network. (3) Wide-spaced lower-layer overbank sediment sampling is a fast and cost-effective way to identify geochemical provinces and has strategic significance in mineral exploration. (4) There is a significant correlation between the W content of wide-spaced lower-layer overbank sediment samples and the presence of W mineralizations within the catchment basins. (5) The distributions of Ni, Cr and V in wide-spaced lower-layer overbank sediment samples distinctly reveals the boundary between the Yangtze sedimentary platform and the South China Caledonian fold system in Jiangxi Province. (6) Distributions of Rb and Be coincide with the Yanshan granites, which are closely related to the major ore-forming episodes in Jiangxi Province. |
