Platinum and chromium
Return to the list of questions or ask a question.
Category: Mining and Geology
Subject: Platinum and chromium
Question
Why do platinum and chromium occur together?
Answer
Professor R. Grant Cawthorn has written on the subject of the occurrence of platinum group metals (pgms)*.
Much of the world’s pgm, and chromium, deposits are found in layered igneous intrusions, such as the Bushveld Complex, South Africa. This is due to the unique geological processes that lead to the formation of these intrusions. Repeated injection of magma bearing low concentrations of certain elements into a large, sub-volcanic, shallow-level chamber leads to extremely slow cooling and crystallisation processes. Different minerals precipitate as the magma cools.
In this way, layers accumulate, often composed of single minerals. This process can result in the concentration of certain minor minerals of economic importance, which can include pgms and chromium, among others.
Further information can be found in:
More information on platinum production is available through the Platinum Today website.
Answer posted 29 March 2007
Submitted by: Mr Godsave sibanda
Affiliation: geology
Answered by: Sara Coles
Affiliation: Platinum Metals Review
