Research on three-dimensional mineral prospectivity modeling by integrating numerical simulation of the ore-forming process: A case study in the Chating area of Xuancheng, Anhui province, China

Abstract

: The Chating area is situated in the northeastern part of the Nanling-Xuancheng ore cluster, within the middle-lower Yangtze River Mineralization belt. Several porphyry and skarn-type deposits have been newly discovered in this region, indicating the significant epithermal ore-forming potential in the deep subsurface of the area. However, the traditional mineral exploration methods currently being carried out have limited capabilities for exploring deep-seated concealed ore deposits within the area, which hinders further mineral discoveries. In recent years, three-dimensional ore prediction has emerged as a crucial tool for predicting concealed ore deposits in the deep subsurface. However, the lack of three-dimensional predictive information remains a bottleneck restricting its forecasting capabilities.Current research indicates that three-dimensional numerical simulation methods of ore-forming processes can offer new three-dimensional predictive information for mineralization prediction. However, the application of multi-variable numerical simulation information and its support for three-dimensional mineral prospectivity modeling require further research. This study using the Chating area in Xuancheng, Anhui province as a case study, employs a three-dimensional geological