Mineralization at Different Structural Levels in the Crust

Abstract

Metallogenic research on structural levels can reveal vertical patterns of mineralization and facilitate the deep exploration of economic minerals. However, research focusing on the correlation between structural levels and mineralization remains limited. In this study, we summarize the deformation patterns and associated mineral deposits observed at different crustal levels (i.e., surface, shallow, middle, and deep structural levels, corresponding to depths of <2, 2–8, 8–15, and >15 km, respectively). Furthermore, we examine the genetic association between structural levels and metallogenesis, demonstrating that distinct structural levels are linked to specific types of mineralization. Key factors that vary across crustal levels include temperature, pressure, and fluid circulation. Ore-forming processes involve interactions between structures and fluids under varying temperatures and pressures. Structural levels influence mineralization by controlling the temperatures, pressures, and deformation mechanisms that drive the activation, migration, and enrichment of ore-forming materials.