Geologic Characteristics and Exploration & Utilization Progress of Laterite Nickel Deposits in Luzon Island, Philippines

The metallogenetic geological conditions of the laterite nickel deposits, which were found in the weathering crust on the top of Zambales ultrabasic rocks zone in Luzon Island are favorable. Most minerals are limonitization clay containing nickel, and are associated with cobalt generally. The size, distribution and grade of the deposits correlate closely to protoliths type, climatic change, hypsography and structure conditions. The oreforming substance mainly originated from ultrabasic intrusion. The deposits were product of mafic -ultramafic intrusions through weathering, leaching and depositing process. The mineral components of ores and of weathering clay are generally consistent. The deposits are clay silicate nickel deposits.