Geological Assessment of Mineral Deposits at Wewalhinna
Village
Uva Wellassa University Region, Sri Lanka
Executive Summary
This report presents a comprehensive geological assessment of the mineral deposit
located at Wewalhinna Village, approximately 10 kilometers from Uva Wellassa
University. The site represents a significant skarn-type mineralization with multiple
economic mineral occurrences, including iron-rich deposits and weathered corundum
formations. The property, owned by Mr. Karunarathne, offers valuable opportunities for
both educational research and potential value-addition initiatives by Uva Wellassa
University undergraduates
1. Introduction and Site Location
1.1 Geographic Context
The Wewalhinna Village mineral deposit is situated in the Uva Province of Sri Lanka,
representing an important geological formation within the Highland Complex of the
country’s Precambrian crystalline basement. Located approximately 10
kilometers from Uva Wellassa University, the site provides convenient access for
academic research and field studies. The area lies within the central highlands
geological zone, characterized by high-grade metamorphic rocks dating back to the
Precambrian era (approximately 1.9 to 2.5 billion years ago).
1.2 Land Ownership and Accessibility
The property is under private ownership by Mr. Karunarathne, who has maintained the
land in its natural state without commercial excavation activities. This pristine condition
offers exceptional opportunities for geological study and mapping. The landowner has
expressed interest in collaborative research initiatives, making the site particularly
valuable for educational purposes and undergraduate research projects at Uva
Wellassa University
2. Geological Setting and Skarn Formation
2.1 Skarn-Type Mineralization
The deposit is classified as a skarn-type mineralization, which forms through
metasomatic processes when magmatic intrusions interact with carbonate-rich host
rocks. Skarn deposits are characterized by the following features:
• Contact Metamorphism: Formation occurs at the contact zone between igneous
intrusions and sedimentary or metamorphic rocks, typically limestone or
dolomite.
• Metasomatic Alteration: High-temperature fluids from the igneous body cause
chemical and mineralogical changes in the surrounding rocks, creating distinctive
calc-silicate minerals.
• Economic Mineral Concentration: Skarn environments commonly host valuable
minerals including iron oxides, copper, tungsten, molybdenum, and corundum
(aluminum oxide).
• Characteristic Minerals: Common skarn minerals include garnet, pyroxene,
epidote, and various oxide minerals, creating distinctive color patterns and
textures in the rock formations.
2.2 Regional Geological Framework
Sri Lanka’s Highland Complex, where this deposit is located, consists primarily
of granulite-facies metamorphic rocks including charnockites, metapelites, quartzites,
and calc-silicate granulites. The presence of skarn mineralization suggests historical
magmatic activity and subsequent metamorphic recrystallization under high pressure
temperature conditions. This geological setting is consistent with other known mineral
occurrences in the Uva Province, including gemstone deposits and industrial mineral
concentrations
3. Identified Mineral Occurrences
3.1 Iron-Rich Deposits
3.1.1 Initial Misidentification and Field Observations
During initial site reconnaissance, Mr. Karunarathne reported the presence of what was
believed to be a coal deposit in the frontal area of his property. However, field
investigation and visual examination of collected samples revealed that the dark-colored
material was not coal but rather consolidated iron-rich material, specifically described as
“solid sludge of iron.” This misidentification is common in areas where
weathering processes create dark, coal-like appearances in iron oxide deposits
3.1.2 Composition and Formation
The iron-rich material likely consists of various iron oxide and hydroxide minerals,
potentially including:
• Hematite (Fe₂O₃): The most common iron oxide mineral, appearing as red to
steel-gray crystals, often forming through oxidation of magnetite or other iron
bearing minerals.
• Magnetite (Fe₃O₄): A strongly magnetic iron oxide commonly found in skarn
deposits, appearing as black octahedral crystals.
• Limonite (FeO(OH)·nH₂O): A mixture of hydrated iron oxide minerals resulting
from weathering, typically appearing as yellow-brown to dark brown earthy
masses.
• Goethite (α-FeO(OH)): A common weathering product of iron-bearing minerals,
contributing to the brownish coloration in weathered zones.
The “solid sludge” description suggests a consolidated secondary
iron formation, possibly resulting from weathering and remobilization of primary iron
minerals within the skarn system. Such formations can represent economically
significant iron concentrations, particularly if they occur in sufficient volume and grade
3.1.3 Economic Potential
Iron oxide deposits associated with skarn formations can have various economic
applications including raw material for iron and steel production (if sufficiently high
grade), pigment production (ochre and other natural iron oxide pigments), and heavy
aggregate for construction applications. Detailed chemical analysis would be required to
determine the exact composition and assess commercial viability.
3.2 Corundum Deposits
3.2.1 Occurrence and Morphology
Corundum (Al₂O₃) was identified within the property boundaries, occurring in
characteristic barrel-shaped crystals. This morphology is typical of corundum formed
under specific metamorphic conditions and is commonly observed in Sri Lankan gem
deposits. The barrel or cylindrical shape results from crystal growth along the c-axis
during formation, with varying degrees of hexagonal symmetry visible on crystal faces.
The presence of corundum in skarn environments is particularly noteworthy, as it
indicates aluminum-rich metasomatic conditions during mineralization. Corundum
typically forms in aluminum-rich, silica-poor environments under high-temperature
metamorphic conditions (typically 600-800°C)
3.2.2 Weathering and Erosion Patterns
Field observations indicate that the corundum crystals have undergone significant
weathering and erosion. This weathering manifests as surface etching, rounding of
crystal edges, and potential development of surface pitting. The weathering process
affects corundum through physical and chemical mechanisms:
• Physical Weathering: Thermal expansion and contraction, frost wedging, and
mechanical erosion by water and wind gradually break down crystal surfaces and
can cause fragmentation.
• Chemical Weathering: While corundum is highly resistant to chemical weathering
due to its hardness (9 on Mohs scale) and chemical stability, prolonged exposure
to weathering agents can cause surface alterations and etching patterns.
• Liberation from Host Rock: Weathering of surrounding matrix minerals (often
more susceptible to alteration than corundum) leads to liberation of corundum
crystals, making them available for collection as loose crystals or in alluvial
concentrations
Despite weathering effects, corundum retains its essential properties and can be
processed for various industrial applications. The degree of weathering should be
systematically documented through detailed mineralogical examination and
photographic documentation.
3.2.3 Physical and Chemical Properties
Corundum is characterized by the following properties:
• Chemical Formula: Al₂O₃ (aluminum oxide)
• Crystal System: Trigonal (hexagonal)
• Hardness: 9 on Mohs scale (second only to diamond)
• Specific Gravity: 3.98-4.10 g/cm³
• Melting Point: 2,050°C (3,722°F)
• Color Variations: Pure corundum is colorless; trace elements create varieties
including ruby (red, chromium-bearing) and sapphire (blue, titanium and iron
bearing), as well as other colors
• Luster: Vitreous to adamantin
4. Value Addition Opportunities and Industrial Applications
4.1 Ceramic Industry Applications
Corundum represents a valuable raw material for the ceramic industry, particularly in
advanced technical ceramics and refractory applications. The mineral’s
exceptional properties make it suitable for:
• Refractory Materials: High-temperature resistant ceramics for furnace linings, kiln
furniture, and crucibles. Corundum-based refractories can withstand
temperatures exceeding 1,800°C, making them essential for
metallurgical and glass manufacturing processes.
• Advanced Ceramics: Technical ceramics including spark plug insulators, wear
resistant components, and high-temperature sensor housings. The
material’s thermal stability and electrical insulation properties are highly
valued.
• Ceramic Glazes: Corundum particles can be incorporated into ceramic glazes to
enhance durability, scratch resistance, and aesthetic properties.
• Porcelain Manufacturing: As an additive to improve mechanical strength and
reduce thermal expansion in high-quality porcelain products.
4.2 Abrasive Applications
Due to its exceptional hardness (9 on Mohs scale), corundum is extensively used in
abrasive applications:
• Grinding Wheels and Abrasive Papers: Crushed and graded corundum serves as
the cutting agent in various grinding, polishing, and surface preparation products.
• Sandblasting Media: Corundum particles are effective for surface cleaning,
preparation, and texturing of metals, glass, and stone.
• Polishing Compounds: Fine-grade corundum powder is used in optical polishing
and precision finishing operations.
• Lapping and Honing: For achieving precise dimensional tolerances and superior
surface finishes in precision engineering applications.
4.3 Additional Industrial Uses
• Watch Bearings and Precision Instruments: Synthetic corundum (or high-quality
natural material) is used in precision bearings for watches and scientific
instruments due to its wear resistance and smooth surface finish capability.
• Optical Applications: High-purity corundum is used in optical windows, laser
components, and spectroscopic equipment due to its transparency and thermal
stability.
• Electronic Substrates: Sapphire (single-crystal corundum) substrates are critical
for LED manufacturing and high-power electronic devices.
• Gemstone Market: While weathered specimens may not be suitable for gem use,
systematic sorting might identify specimens suitable for cutting as ornamental
stones or lower-grade gemstones
4.4 Value Addition
Strategies for Uva Wellassa University
As undergraduates of Uva Wellassa University, several value-addition pathways can be
pursued to transform the raw mineral resources into marketable products:
• Material Processing and Beneficiation: Establish small-scale processing facilities
to clean, sort, and grade corundum specimens by size, quality, and color. This
includes development of crushing, grinding, and classification procedures to
produce specific particle size distributions for different applications.
• Quality Assessment and Characterization: Conduct detailed mineralogical
analysis using techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron
microscopy (SEM), and chemical analysis to determine exact composition, purity,
and potential contamination issues. This data enhances market value and
enables targeted applications.
• Product Development: Create value-added products such as custom abrasive
compounds, polishing powders, or ceramic additives tailored to specific industry
requirements. Develop partnerships with local ceramic manufacturers and
industrial users.
• Research and Development: Utilize university laboratory facilities to investigate
novel applications of the corundum material, potentially developing specialized
products or processes that can be patented or commercialized.
• Educational Resource Development: Create geological teaching collections,
develop field study programs, and produce educational materials documenting
the deposit’s characteristics. This enhances the university’s
educational resources while generating revenue through organized field trips and
training programs.
• Sustainable Mining Practices: Design and implement small-scale,
environmentally responsible extraction methods that minimize environmental
impact while maximizing resource recovery. This serves as a demonstration
project for sustainable mineral development.
5. Recommendations and Future Work
5.1 Immediate Actions
• Systematic Geological Mapping: Conduct detailed geological mapping of the
property to delineate the extent of mineralization, identify different rock units, and
document structural features. Use GPS coordinates to create accurate location
maps.
• Sample Collection and Analysis: Collect representative samples of all mineral
occurrences for comprehensive laboratory analysis including chemical
composition, mineralogical identification, and physical property testing.
• Photographic Documentation: Create a comprehensive photographic record of
outcrops, mineral specimens, and geological features using standardized
photography protocols with scale bars and proper lighting.
• Stakeholder Consultation: Engage with Mr. Karunarathne to establish formal
research agreements and discuss potential collaboration frameworks that benefit
both the landowner and the university
5.2 Medium-Term Development
• Resource Estimation: Conduct systematic exploration including trenching, pitting,
or drilling (if feasible and permitted) to estimate the volume and grade of
economic minerals present.
• Market Assessment: Research local and regional markets for corundum
products, identify potential buyers, and assess price points for different product
grades and specifications.
• Processing Technology Development: Design and test appropriate beneficiation
methods, considering factors such as cost-effectiveness, environmental impact,
and product quality requirements.
• Regulatory Compliance: Investigate necessary permits and licenses required for
mineral exploration and potential small-scale mining activities, ensuring full
compliance with Sri Lankan mining laws and environmental regulations.
5.3 Long-Term Vision
• Establish a University-Industry Partnership: Create a collaborative model
involving the university, the landowner, and potential industrial partners to
develop the resource sustainably while generating revenue and providing student
learning opportunities.
• Create a Field Study Center: Develop the site as a permanent field study location
for geology, mineralogy, and mining engineering education, potentially expanding
to serve other universities in Sri Lanka.
• Research Publication: Document findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals,
contributing to the geological knowledge of Sri Lanka’s mineral
resources and enhancing the university’s research profile.
• Technology Transfer: Develop processing technologies and knowledge that can
be transferred to small-scale miners and mineral processors throughout the
region, supporting rural economic development.
6. Conclusion
The mineral deposit at Wewalhinna Village represents a significant geological and
economic opportunity for Uva Wellassa University. The presence of skarn-type
mineralization with both iron-rich deposits and weathered corundum formations provides
multiple avenues for research, education, and potential commercial development. The
corundum occurrences, despite weathering effects, retain substantial value for ceramic
industry applications and other industrial uses.
The proximity to Uva Wellassa University creates unique advantages for undergraduate
participation in mineral resource development, offering hands-on learning experiences
in geology, mineralogy, materials science, and sustainable resource management.
Through systematic investigation, careful planning, and appropriate value-addition
strategies, this deposit can serve dual purposes as an educational resource and a
potential revenue generator.
The collaborative relationship with the landowner, Mr. Karunarathne, provides a
foundation for responsible resource development that respects property rights while
creating mutual benefits. With proper scientific investigation, regulatory compliance, and
strategic planning, the Wewalhinna deposit can become a model for university-led
mineral resource development in Sri Lanka, demonstrating how academic institutions
can contribute to sustainable economic development while advancing scientific
knowledge.
Moving forward, the implementation of the recommended actions will enable a
comprehensive understanding of the deposit’s full potential and facilitate the
development of sustainable value-addition strategies that benefit all stakeholders while
maintaining environmental responsibility and educational excellence
