Search Results (135)

The southern Great Xing’an Range is located in the overlap zone of the Paleo-Asian Ocean metallogenic domain and the Circum-Pacific metallogenic domain. It hosts numerous Sn-polymetallic deposits, such as Weilasituo, Bianjiadayuan, Huanggang, and Dajing, and witnessed multiple episodes of magmatism during the Late Mesozoic. The study area is situated within the Huanggangliang-Ganzhuermiao metallogenic belt in the southern Great Xing’an Range. The region has witnessed extensive magmatism, with Mesozoic magmatic activities being particularly closely linked to regional mineralization. We present petrographic, zircon U-Pb chronological, lithogeochemical, and Lu-Hf isotopic analyses of the Yexilinhundi granites. The results indicate that the granite porphyry and granodiorite were emplaced during the Late Jurassic. Both rocks exhibit high SiO₂, K₂O + Na₂O, differentiation index (DI), and 10,000 Ga/Al ratios, coupled with low MgO contents. They show distinct fractionation between light and heavy rare earth elements (LREEs and HREEs), exhibit Eu anomalies, and have low whole-rock zircon saturation temperatures (T_zr), collectively demonstrating characteristics of highly fractionated I-type granites. The εHf(t) values of the granites range from 0.600 to 9.14, with young two-stage model ages (T_DM2 = 616.0~1158 Ma), indicating that the magmatic source originated from partial melting of Mesoproterozoic-Neoproterozoic juvenile crust. This study proposes that the granites formed in a post-collisional/post-orogenic extensional setting associated with the subduction of the Mongol-Okhotsk Ocean, providing a scientific basis for understanding the relationship between the formation of Sn-polymetallic deposits and granitic magmatic evolution in the study area. Full article

This study explores the magmatic and hydrothermal evolution of porphyry–skarn–transitional Cu-Mo-W-Au systems within the Nilüfer Mineralization Complex (NMC), located in the westernmost segment of the Eocene Tavşanlı Metallogenic Belt, NW Türkiye. Through integration of field data, whole-rock geochemistry, Re–Os molybdenite dating, and amphibole–biotite mineral chemistry, the petrogenetic controls on mineralization across four spatially associated mineralized regions (Kirazgedik, Güneybudaklar, Kozbudaklar, and Delice) were examined. The earliest and thermally most distinct phase is represented by the Kirazgedik porphyry system, characterized by high temperature (~930 °C), oxidized quartz monzodioritic intrusions emplaced at ~2.7 kbar. Rising fO₂ and volatile enrichment during magma ascent facilitated structurally focused Cu-Mo mineralization. At Güneybudaklar, Re–Os geochronology yields an age of ~49.9 Ma, linking Mo- and W-rich mineralization to a transitional porphyry–skarn environment developed under moderately oxidized (ΔFMQ + 1.8 to +0.5) and hydrous (up to 7 wt.% H₂O) magmatic conditions. Kozbudaklar represents a more reduced, volatile-poor skarn system, leading to Mo-enriched scheelite mineralization typical of late-stage W-skarns. The Delice system, developed at the contact of felsic cupolas and carbonates, records the broadest range of redox and fluid compositions. Mixed oxidized–reduced fluid signatures and intense fluid–rock interaction reflect complex, multistage fluid evolution involving both magmatic and external inputs. Geochemical and mineralogical trends—from increasing silica and Rb to decreasing Sr and V—trace a systematic evolution from mantle-derived to felsic, volatile-rich magmas. Structurally, mineralization is controlled by oblique fault zones that localize magma emplacement and hydrothermal flow. These findings support a unified genetic model in which porphyry and skarn mineralization styles evolved continuously from multiphase magmatic systems during syn-to-post-subduction processes, offering implications for exploration models in the Western Tethyan domain. Full article

The hydrochemical characteristics and evolution mechanisms of groundwater are critical for accurately understanding the input–output budget of hydrochemical constituents in pristine groundwater. However, few studies have analyzed the changes in mineral precipitation and dissolution equilibrium along the groundwater flow path, especially in arid regions. This study integrated hydrochemical analysis, stable isotopes, and inverse hydrochemical modeling to identify groundwater recharge sources, hydrochemical evolution, and controlling mechanisms in an arid endorheic watershed, northwestern China. A stable isotope signature indicated that groundwater is primarily recharged by high-altitude meteoric precipitation and glacial snowmelt. The regional hydrochemical type evolved from HCO₃·Cl-Ca·Mg·Na types in phreatic aquifers to more complex HCO₃·Cl-Ca·Mg Na and HCO₃·Cl-Na Mg types in confined aquifers and a Cl-Mg·Na type in high-salinity groundwater. The dissolution of halite, gypsum, calcite, K-feldspar, and albite was identified as the primary source of dissolved substances and a key factor controlling the hydrochemical characteristics. Meanwhile, hydrochemical evolution is influenced by cation exchange, mineral dissolution–precipitation, and carbonate equilibrium mechanisms. Inverse hydrochemical modeling demonstrated that high-salinity groundwater has experienced intensive evaporation and quantified the transfer amounts of associated minerals. This study offers deeper insight into hydrochemical evolution in the Golmud River watershed and elucidates mineral transport and enrichment mechanisms, providing a theoretical basis for investigating hydrochemical metallogenic processes. Full article

The Karamaili Granite Belt (KGB) in the southern margin of the Eastern Junggar is the most important tin metallogenic belt in the southwestern Central Asian Orogenic Belt. The plutons in the western part have a close genetic relationship with tin mineralization. The zircon U-Pb ages of the Kamusite, Laoyaquan, and Beilekuduke plutons are 315.1 ± 3.4 Ma, 313.6 ± 2.9 Ma, and 316.5 ± 4.6 Ma, respectively. The plutons have high silica (SiO₂ = 75.53%–77.85%), potassium (K₂O = 4.43%–5.42%), and alkalis (K₂O + Na₂O = 8.17%–8.90%) contents and low ferroan (Fe₂O₃^T = 0.90%–1.48%), calcium, and magnesium contents and are classified as metaluminous–peraluminous, high-potassium, calc-alkaline iron granite. The rocks are enriched in Rb, Th, U, K, Pb, and Sn and strongly depleted in Ba, Sr, P, Eu, and Ti. They have strongly negative Eu anomalies (δEu = 0.01–0.05), 10,000 Ga/Al = 2.87–4.91 (>2.6), showing the geochemical characteristics of A-type granite. The zircon U/Pb ratios indicate that the above granites should be I- or A-type granite, which is generally formed under high-temperature (768–843 °C), low-pressure, and reducing magma conditions. The high Rb/Sr ratio (a mean of 48 > 1.2) and low K/Rb ratio (53.93–169.94) indicate that the tin-bearing plutons have undergone high differentiation. The positive whole-rock εNd(t) values (3.99–5.54) and the relatively young Nd T_2DM model ages (616–455 Ma) suggest the magma is derived from partially melted juvenile crust, and the underplating of basic magma containing mantle materials that affected the source area. The results indicate the KGB was formed in the tectonic transition period in the late Carboniferous subduction post-collision environment. Orogenic compression influenced the tin-bearing plutons in the western part of the KGB, forming highly differentiated and reduced I, A-type transition granite. An extensional environment affected the plutons in the eastern sections, creating A-type granite with dark enclaves that suggest magma mixing with little evidence of tin mineralization. Full article

To achieve a significant breakthrough in the exploration of uranium resources in the Guangzitian area of northern Guangxi, China, an innovative combination of exploration methods was implemented at the peripheral regions of the Guangzitian uranium deposit under the guidance of the following principle: “exploring the edges and identifying the bottom, delving deep and un-covering blind spots”. This study introduces geo-electrochemical integrated technology for prospecting research at the peripheral areas of the Guangzitian deposit. By validating the technology’s effectiveness on known geological sections, distinct geo-electrochemical extraction anomalies were identified above recognized ore bodies. Simultaneously, soil ionic conductivity and thermally released mercury anomalies were observed, partially indicating the presence of concealed uranium deposits and fault structures. These findings demonstrate that geo-electrochemical integrated technology is effective in detecting buried uranium mineralization in this region. Subsequently, a geological-geoelectrical prospecting model was established through a systematic analysis of anomaly characteristics and metallogenic regularity, and it was subsequently applied to unexplored areas. As a result, one key anomaly verification zone, one Class A comprehensive anomaly zone, two Class B comprehensive anomaly zones, and one Class C comprehensive anomaly zone were identified within the unexplored research area. Drilling engineering validation was conducted in the No. Ι key anomaly verification zone, resulting in the discovery of an industrial-grade uranium ore body. This achievement not only provides critical technical support but also develops a robust theoretical foundation for future mineral exploration endeavors. Full article

The Qieliekeqi siderite deposit, located in the Tashkurgan block of western Kunlun, is a carbonate-hosted iron deposit with hydrothermal sedimentary features. This study integrates whole-rock geochemistry, stable isotopes, and zircon U–Pb–Hf data to investigate its metallogenic evolution. Coarse-grained siderite samples, formed in deeper water, exhibit average Al₂O₃/TiO₂ ratios of 29.14, δEu of 2.69, and δCe of 0.83, indicating hydrothermal fluid dominance with limited seawater mixing. Banded samples from shallower settings show an average Al₂O₃/TiO₂ of 17.07, δEu of 3.18, and δCe of 0.94, suggesting stronger seawater interaction under oxidizing conditions. Both types are enriched in Mn, Co, and Ba, with low Ti and Al contents. Stable isotope results (δ¹³C_PDB = −6.0‰ to −4.6‰; δ¹⁸O_SMOW = 16.0‰ to 16.9‰) point to seawater-dominated fluids with minor magmatic and meteoric contributions, formed under open-system conditions at avg. temperatures of 53 to 58 °C. Zircon U–Pb dating yields an age of 211.01 ± 0.82 Ma, with an average εHf(t) of −3.94, indicating derivation from the partially melted ancient crust. These results support a two-stage model involving Late Cambrian hydrothermal sedimentation and Late Triassic magmatic overprinting. Full article

This study critically examines the early Cretaceous carbonate-hosted Zn-Pb (±Ba±Cu) deposits of the Malayer-Esfahan (MEMB) and Yazd-Anarak (YAMB) metallogenic belts in Iran, which have been inaccurately classified as Mississippi Valley type (MVT) deposits by Nejadhadad et al. (2025). Our findings reveal significant differences in mineralogy, fluid inclusion characteristics, and geochemical signatures compared to typical MVT deposits. These deposits are more akin to Irish-type Zn-Pb mineralization and formed in extensional and passive margin environments around the Nain–Baft back-arc basin. The normal faults in this back-arc rift can transform significantly during inversion and compressional tectonics, reactivating to behave as reverse faults and leading to new geological structures and landscapes. Our study highlights barite replacement as a crucial factor in forming sediment-hosted Zn-Pb (±Ba±Cu) and barite-sulfide deposits. Based on textural evidence, fluid inclusion data, and sulfur isotope analyses, we propose that barite plays a fundamental role in controlling subsequent Zn-Pb (±Ba±Cu) mineralization by serving as both a favorable host and a significant sulfur source. Furthermore, diagenetic barite may act as a precursor to diverse types of sediment-hosted Zn-Pb (±Ba±Cu) mineralization, refining genetic models for these deposits. Sulfur isotope analyses of Irish-type deposits show a broad δ³⁴S range (−28‰ to +5‰), indicative of bacterial sulfate reduction (BSR). Nevertheless, more positive δ³⁴S values (+1‰ to +36‰) and textural evidence in shale-hosted massive sulfide (SHMS) deposits suggest a greater role for thermochemical sulfate reduction (TSR) in sulfide mineralization. Full article

To efficiently delineate mineral-induced geochemical anomalies within the Hongyahuo area, principal component analysis (PCA), S-A multifractal modeling, and singularity modeling were employed to examine multi-element datasets derived from 641 soil samples collected from natural gully systems. The isometric log-ratio (ilr) transformation was implemented in conjunction with histogram and quantile-quantile plot analysis to assess and compare the multivariate statistical properties of elemental data across three formats—original, logarithmic, and ilr-transformed. The findings demonstrate the following: (1) following ilr transformation, the issue of data closure was resolved, resulting in elemental distributions more closely approximating normality; (2) PCA revealed two distinguishable elemental associations: PC1 corresponds to the Cu-Fe-Mn-Ni-Pb-Zn group, indicative of a medium- to high-temperature hydrothermal mineralization assemblage associated with Cu-Pb-Zn polymetallic mineralization linked to magmatic intrusion and fracture systems, signifying overprinted copper polymetallic mineralization events; PC2 reflects the Au-As-Sb elemental combination, associated with low-temperature hydrothermal processes indicative of Au-Sb mineralization; (3) the decomposition of the S-A model indicated that low-background and high-anomaly zones for PC1 are primarily situated within andesitic units, where nearby intermediate to felsic intrusions and structural fracture zones have likely served as sources for Cu-polymetallic mineralization; (4) the spatial distribution of the singularity index suggested that anomalous regions characterized by a PC1 singularity index α < 2 were relatively confined, offering strategic implications for mineral exploration targeting; and (5) when integrated with regional metallogenic background, three prospecting targets were identified, leading to the subsequent discovery of two copper ore bodies through anomaly validation. Therefore, this integrative analytical framework is demonstrated to be a robust approach for delineating geochemical anomalies. Full article

Geotechnical slope failures—often precursors to catastrophic landslides and collapses—pose significant risks to mining operations and regional socioeconomic stability. Focusing on the Jiangte Xikeng lithium open-pit mine, this study integrates field reconnaissance, laboratory testing, and multi-physics numerical modeling to elucidate the mechanisms governing slope stability. Geological surveys and core analyses reveal a predominantly granite lithostratigraphy, bisected by two principal fault systems: the NE-striking F01 and the NNE-oriented F02. Advanced three-dimensional finite element simulations—accounting for gravitational loading, hydrogeological processes, dynamic blasting stresses, and extreme rainfall events—demonstrate that strain localizes at slope crests, with maximum displacements reaching 195.7 mm under blasting conditions. They indicate that differentiated slope angles of 42° for intact granite versus 27° for fractured zones are required for optimal stability, and that the integration of fault-controlled instability criteria, a coupled hydro-mechanical-blasting interaction model, and zonal design protocols for heterogeneous rock masses provides both operational guidelines for hazard mitigation and theoretical insights into excavation-induced slope deformations in complex metallogenic environments. Full article

The Wubaduolai copper deposit, a newly discovered porphyry-type deposit located in the western section of the Gangdese metallogenic belt, shows great potential for mineralization. Investigating the ore-bearing potentiality of the adakitic granite in this area is crucial for identifying concealed ore bodies and assessing the metallogenic potential. This paper presents the zircon U-Pb dating, Hf isotope analysis, and whole-rock major and trace geochemical analysis of the plutons in the Wubaduolai mining area. The results indicate that the zircon U-Pb concordia age of the monzogranite is 15.7 ± 0.1 Ma, while the granodiorite porphyry has a concordia age of 15.9 ± 0.2 Ma, both corresponding to a Miocene diagenesis. The geochemical data show that both plutons belong to the high-K calc-alkaline series, characterized by a relative enrichment of large-ion lithophile elements (K, Rb, Ba, and Sr) and a depletion of high-field-strength elements (Nb, Ta, and Ti). Both plutons are characterized by low Y, low Yb, and high Sr/Y values, displaying the typical geochemical characteristics of adakites. Their mineral composition is similar to that of adakite. The ε_Hf(t) values of the monzogranite and granodiorite porphyry range from −5.34 to −2.3 and −5.2 to −3.43, respectively, with two-stage model ages (T_DM2) of 1246–1441 Ma and 1318–1432 Ma. Based on the regional data and this study, the plutons in the Wubaduolai mining area formed in a post-collision setting following the India–Asia continental collision. The magma source is identified as the partial melting of a thickened, newly formed lower crust. The above characteristics are consistent with the diagenetic and metallogenic ages, magma source, and dynamic backgrounds of the typical regional deposits. Full article

The effectiveness of geological prospecting depends on the accuracy of the prediction of the prospecting target areas. In comparison with the conventional qualitative method (Mineral Exploration and Development), the use of big data concepts and methods for the in-depth analysis of the potential value of geological information has emerged as an effective way to improve the accuracy of prospecting target area predictions. The Beishan area in Gansu Province, China, is a prominent polymetallic metallogenic belt in northwest China. In recent years, geologists have encountered challenges in achieving effective breakthroughs in prospecting through conventional methods. In this study, we apply the big data concepts and methods to analyze the geochemical and aeromagnetic data of the Beishan area and utilize a series of self-developed software to rectify errors in the original data. A new geochemical remediation plan is proposed for the main elements of ore formation, and on this basis, a copper ore prospecting model based on multi-source data information mining is established. The prospecting model is used to predict the formation of copper ore in the Beishan area, and 100 level I and II preferred target areas with significant prospecting significance have been identified. Level I and II preferred target areas account for 2.7% of the study area. Verified by field sampling, the actual mineralization rate of the level I target area is 39.47%. This study proves the effectiveness of the proposed multi-source data mining method in improving the prediction accuracy of prospecting target areas. Full article

The Jiaodong region ranks as the world’s third-largest gold metallogenic province, where Late Mesozoic gold mineralization exhibits close genetic connections with cratonic destruction and multi-stage plate tectonic interactions. This study systematically deciphers the deep-seated architecture and metallogenic controls through integrated analysis of gravity, aeromagnetic, and magnetotelluric datasets. The key findings demonstrate the following: (1) Bouguer gravity anomalies reveal a “two uplifts flanking a central depression” tectonic framework, reflecting superimposed effects from Yangtze Plate subduction and Pacific Plate rollback; (2) zoned aeromagnetic anomalies suggest that the Sanshandao–Jiaojia–Zhaoyuan–Pingdu Metallogenic Belt extends seaward with significant exploration potential; (3) magnetotelluric inversion identifies three lithosphere penetrating conductive zones, confirming the Jiaojia and Zhaoyuan–Pingdu faults as crust mantle fluid conduits, while the Taocun–Jimo fault marks the North China–Sulu Block boundary; and (4) metallogenic materials derive from hybrid sources of deep Yangtze Plate subduction and mantle upwelling, with gold enrichment controlled by intersections of NE-trending faults and EW-oriented basement folds. Integrated geophysical signatures indicate that the northwestern Jiaodong offshore area (north of Sanshandao) holds supergiant gold deposit potential. This research provides critical constraints for the craton destruction type gold mineralization model. Full article

In the field of mineral exploration, geophysical method selection often relies on experience, yet research on ore deposit geophysical models remains insufficient. Addressing this gap, a new exploration model was proposed based on the Jinding lead–zinc mining area, which was integrated as follows: geophysical model–numerical simulation–exploration method selection–field experiments–electrical structure. Firstly, based on geological models and rock–ore resistivity data, a three-dimensional geophysical electrical model of the mining area was constructed for the first time. Secondly, in response to the demands of deep mineral exploration, the CSAMT method with a large exploration depth was initially selected. Then, the coupled finite element–infinite element method was employed to perform forward modeling on the three-dimensional model in order to verify the effectiveness of the CSAMT exploration. Subsequently, the CSAMT exploration experiment was conducted in the Jinding mining area to verify its true effectiveness. During CSAMT data acquisition, high-quality data were obtained through new signal-to-noise ratio experiments and different acquisition time experiments, which built a solid foundation for the reliability of the inversion results. Finally, through CSAMT data processing and inversion interpretation, the electrical distribution at a depth of 1 km below the mining area was obtained. The electrical characteristics of the lithologic system in the mining area were revealed by interpreting the electrical structure characteristics of the survey lines, which provided reliable data support for understanding the geological genesis and metallogenic model in the Jinding lead–zinc deposit. The new exploration model proposed in this study, along with measures to improve data acquisition quality, could serve as a valuable reference for geophysical exploration personnel. Full article

Metallic minerals and some nonmetallic deposits (such as gas hydrate and natural gas) exhibit significant resistivity contrast with their surrounding rocks. Therefore, magnetotelluric (MT) sounding, which is highly sensitive to low-resistivity anomalies, offers a unique advantage in identifying these mineral resources. For metallogenic systems in sedimentary environments with approximately layered structures, we propose the Dynamic Error Bat Algorithm (DEBA), which integrates the cooling strategy, the dynamized fit error function, and the Bat Algorithm. DEBA enhances the breadth of global exploration in the early iteration stages while focusing on the depth of local exploitation in the later stages, yielding a more effective fitting outcome and better identification of electrical interfaces. Validity and noise immunity tests on typical synthetic models prove the robustness of DEBA. For broadband MT stations from the central Songliao Basin, we observed that the model derived from three-dimensional inversion did not provide an ideal layering effect for the shallow structure. Notably, the apparent resistivity and phase curves of these MT stations are similar, suggesting that the shallow structure in the study area has approximately one-dimensional (1-D) features, a conclusion that was further supported by phase tensor analysis. To gain a clearer understanding of the shallow structure, we applied DEBA to perform an averaged 1-D inversion. The subsequent results reveal a low-resistivity layer, which may be attributed to metallic sulfides or saline fluids. Full article

The Heyu ore-concentrated area in western Henan, situated within the East Qinling metallogenic belt, represents a strategic fluorite resource base currently confronting severe challenges of reserve depletion. Given this critical status, this study focuses on enhancing exploration of concealed fluorite deposits through an innovative aeromagnetic approach. Prioritizing aeromagnetic surveys across 280 km² of rugged terrain achieved 100% coverage, demonstrating cost-efficiency in regional-scale exploration of fault-controlled fluorite systems. By systematically analyzing mineralization mechanisms and integrating processed magnetic data with geological constraints, we characterized magnetic anomaly patterns specific to fluorite-bearing structures. Key findings include: distinctive “low-density, low-magnetic” signatures of fluorite deposits (2.42 g/cm³, 15.57 × 10⁻⁵ SI) contrasted sharply with host granites (2.58 g/cm³, 2612 × 10⁻⁵ SI); identification of two deep-seated prospecting targets (Y-1 and Y-2) through residual anomaly analysis, spatially correlating with fault intersections; and successful borehole validation revealing 11.5 m-thick fluorite zones at 300–500 m depths. The established geological–geophysical model provides dual functionality: enabling precise delineation of deep-seated exploration targets, and offering actionable guidelines for sustainable resource development in ore-concentrated areas. This work pioneers a technical pathway for fluorite exploration in complex terrains, underscoring geophysics’ indispensable role in deep mineral targeting while setting a benchmark for analogous metallogenic provinces. Full article