Study on geological and structural characterization around Mai Kenetal, Central Tigray in Northern Ethiopia

Bekele Ayele, R.Gangadharan

The present research is aims to study geological and structural characterization around Mai Kenetal, central Tigray, in northern Ethiopia. Topographic difference of the Mai Kenetal area helped in identifying the rock units in the north-western and south-eastern parts of the study area. So that metavolcanic, metavolcaniclastic formations are located in the north and northeast sides whereas slate and phyllite are situated in the south, central and eastern side. Also intrusive granite and dikes are recognized in the central part of the study area. The results shows that the basement rocks are prominently NE-SW trending and shows parallel to the regional lineaments of Mai Kenetal is syncline inliers structure. In study area, the dominant structures such as foliation, shear zone, fold, and fractures like fault, joints, and slickenside are appears. Structural data suggests that the study area has been experienced in three phases of deformation and it also indicated presence of hydrothermal alterations like chloritization, epidotization, sericitization. Based on the lithology study and the non-development of foliation or schistosity suggest that the study area is experienced in low grade metamorphic conditions.