Numerical Modeling of Coupled Geodynamical Processes and Its Role in Facilitating Predictive Ore Discovery: An Example from Tongling, China

Abstract

Facilitating more predictive ore discovery is becoming an increasingly challenging task for the resources geology research and exploration industry. The numerical geodynamic modeling, which uses numerical code to reproduce feedback coupling of geodynamic processes in the computer, is one of endeavors for forming sound predictive exploration strategy by thoroughly understanding the mineralization system and its controlling factors. The FLAC (Fast Lagrangian Analysis of Continua) is a two-dimensional finite-difference code for studying the mechano-thermo-hydrological behavior of a continuous porous medium after it reached equilibrium or steady plastic flow. We used the FLAC to simulate the syn-deformation cooling and fluid flowing after the intrusion was emplaced and solidified in the Fenghuangshan ore field, Tongling Cu district for guiding analysis of ore-controlling factors and selection of the exploration target area. The results of numerical computation demonstrate that the dilatant deformation zones along the contact of the intrusion control the fluid focus and the location and scale of ore bodies. Further more, the simulation results suggest a most prospective exploration area in the south high dilation zone, where the subsequent exploration supported the prediction and the test bore hole disclosed the high quality copper ore bodies in the target. This example has demonstrated the positive role of the numerical geodynamic modeling in facilitating predictive ore discovery.

Computational simulation of the ore-forming processes associated with the Sanshandao-Haiyu gold belt, Jiaodong Peninsula, eastern China: implications for the duration of ore formation

“…It can be used to calculate the duration of mineralization based on a known average grade, which is a crucial parameter for predicting new deposits and extracting metals directly from metal fluids (Buret et al, 2016;Zhao et al, 2018;Hu et al, 2020;Li et al, 2023). Therefore, computational simulation methods provide a potential and effective approach for addressing the challenge of obtaining deep-seated information in deep mineral exploration, by extending and extrapolating existing mineralization elements/information in both spatial and temporal dimensions (Wang S. F. et al, 2020;Xiao et al, 2021;Chen et al, 2022), and facilitating a comprehensive understanding of hydrothermal ore-forming processes, as demonstrated in previous studies (Hobbs et al, 2000;Lin et al, 2003;Lin et al, 2006;Lin et al, 2008;Lin et al, 2009;Liu et al, 2005;Liu et al, 2010;Liu et al, 2011;Xing et al, 2008;Alt-Epping and Zhao, 2010;Schmidt et al, 2010;Zhang et al, 2011;Lei et al, 2013;Cox., 2016;Wang et al, 2016;Wang S. R. et al, 2020;Cox, 2020).…”

Modeling ore generation in a magmatic context

“…Similarly, fluid-rocks interactions studies started from mineralized fluid flow in porous or fractured medium (Steefel and Lichtner, 1994;O'Brien et al, 2003) and leaching metals from the country rocks (Mouhers, 2015;Myagkiy et al, 2017). Such studies apply to porphyry type deposits (Weis et al, 2012) in relation with geodynamics (Liu et al, 2008) or environmental problems (Zhao et al, 2014).…”

Structural Controls on Copper Mineralization in the Tongling Ore District, Eastern China: Evidence from Spatial Analysis

“…Secondary structures include NE-trending thrust faults, NW-and NNW-trending strike-slip faults [46]. The regional gravity anomalies [47] and deep seismic reflection profiles [48] indicate the presence of EW-and NS-trending basement faults.…”