Phlogopite mica mineralization in the central part of Sri Lanka and identify suitable areas for mining

Abstract

Phlogopite mica has a significant importance as it has excellent thermal and electrical properties when compared to other types of mica. Sri Lanka is blessed with high quality Phlogopite mica mineralization and such deposits occur in Kebithigollawa, Medawachchiya, Rathnapura, Matale, Dambulla, Ambilipitiya, Kollonne, Dehiaththakandiya, Naula and Mailapitiya of Kandy. Mica mining in the central part of Sri Lanka in Mailapitiya off Kady has been carried out during the British regime before 1948. Investigations carried out in the area around Kandy - Mailapitiya shows occurrence of economically minable Phlogopite mica mineralization. The vein thickness of the Phlogopite mica varies from 0.1 cm - 0.8m and extends in N10°-20°W direction. They generally follow the joint pattern of the metamorphic country rocks. Mica found in the area have similar properties although show slight variation in quality due to difference in degree of weathering. Phlogopite mineralization occurs in association with a pyroxenite body which has been intruded into the area prior to Phlogopite mica mineralization. The pyroxenite bodies show higher concentration of Nickel and Gold. Thus, it is worth to carry out detailed investigations of the pyroxenite body while conducting the mining operations in the area.