Comparative Assessment of Granite-Hosted Pegmatite- Quartz Veins in Akpet and Betem as a Potential for High-purity Quartz Resource

Abstract

This study presents a comparative geological and geochemical assessment of granite-hosted pegmatite-quartz veins in Akpet and Betem areas, southeastern Nigeria, to evaluate their potential as sources of high-purity quartz (HPQ). A total of thirty (30) samples were subjected to mineralogical (using photomicrographs), geochemical (using Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy – SEM and EDS), and statistical analyses (One-Way ANOVA and Principal Component Analysis) to determine the genesis, impurity levels, and economic viability of quartz in both regions. The results reveal distinct genetic environments for the two sites: Akpet quartz veins are associated with orogenic processes, formed under high-pressure and moderate-temperature conditions during the Pan-African orogeny, while Betem quartz is linked to epithermal systems, formed at lower pressures and temperatures in a shallow magmatic-hydrothermal environment. Trace element geochemistry indicates significantly lower concentrations of impurities such as Al, Ti, Li, and Fe in Akpet quartz compared to Betem. These elements are critical in determining quartz suitability for high-tech applications. Principal component analysis highlights that Akpet quartz is relatively purer and less mineral-inclusion-rich, with better potential for beneficiation to meet HPQ specifications. In contrast, Betem quartz exhibits high concentrations of contaminant trace elements and mineral inclusions (e.g., zircon, monazite, titanite), suggesting a more evolved pegmatitic system with lower potential for economic HPQ extraction without extensive processing. The study concludes that Akpet quartz, while not naturally meeting HPQ standards, holds promise for semi-industrial applications and can be upgraded using cost-effective beneficiation techniques such as acid or alkaline leaching, given its relatively low impurity levels and favorable geochemical characteristics. Conversely, the high impurity burden in Betem quartz makes it more suitable for low-grade industrial or construction uses unless advanced purification technologies are employed. These findings provide valuable insights for targeted HPQ exploration and resource development in Nigeria’s Basement Complex.