Exploring the economic significance and diverse hues of quartz: A case study at Adaila, south of El Ma Labiod, NE Algeria
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Department of Earth and Universe Sciences, Larbi Tebessi University, Tebessa, Algeria, Laborarory of Sedimentary Environment, Mineral and Hydric Resources of Algeria Eastern, Faculty of Exact Sciences, Sciences of Nature and Life, University Echahid cheikh Larbi Tebessi, Algeria
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Department of Geology, Laboratory of Natural Resources and Management of Sensitive Environments (LRNAMS), Faculty of Earth Sciences and Architecture, Larbi Ben M’hidi University, Oum El Bouaghi, Algeria
Submission date: 2024-01-07
Final revision date: 2024-02-01
Acceptance date: 2024-02-04
Publication date: 2024-03-31
Corresponding author
Wassila Nacer
Department of Earth and Universe Sciences, Larbi Tebessi University, Tebessa,
Algeria, Laborarory of Sedimentary Environment, Mineral and Hydric Resources of Algeria Eastern, Faculty of Exact Sciences, Sciences of Nature and Life, University Echahid cheikh Larbi Tebessi, Algeria
Geomatics, Landmanagement and Landscape 2024;(1)
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ABSTRACT
The Tebessa region in Algeria is rich in mineralogical resources within its Quaternary deposits, particularly in quartz. This study adopts a multidisciplinary approach including stratigraphic, sedimentological, and granulometric analyses, focusing specifically on the deposits located in the fluvial terraces of the Oued Adaila, south of Tébessa in eastern Algeria. The analysis of granulometric parameters gave valuable insights into the uniformity of the energy levels exerted by the transport agents.
Pioneering exoscopy techniques have proved indispensable in discerning the sedimentary history of quartz, offering comprehensive insights into its weathering processes and its intricate journey through continental aquatic pathways. Additionally, this methodology has elucidated the genesis of unique colourations observed in quartz grains. Using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), we have examined the surfaces of quartz grains, revealing an array of patterns attributable either to the inherent crystal lattice structure of quartz or to the erosive influences of the changing environment. These environmental modifications stand out as the primary contributors to the diverse spectrum of colours manifested in the quartz grains. Furthermore, the examination of magnetic data has highlighted the pivotal role played by various
oxides present in the Quaternary deposits. These oxides proved to be important sources of ferric elements, crucial in imparting the distinct colorations observed in quartz. This comprehensive study significantly advances our understanding of the mineralogical constitution, sedimentary evolution, and the environmental dynamics shaping the Quaternary deposits in the Tebessa region.