3D geological modeling based on gravitational and magnetic data inversion in the Luanchuan ore region, Henan Province, China

Abstract Three-dimensional (3D) geological modeling is an important method for understanding geological structures and exploring for mineral deposits. The Luanchuan super-large molybdenum polymetallic ore region has a complex geological setting and multiple metallogenic types. 3D geological modeling is implemented by combining geological knowledge with gravitational and magnetic data inversion in the study area. The 3D geological modeling methodology and the results are summarized as follows. (1) Based on the geological setting and the deposits/occurrences, the aim was to constrain and determine the main geological objects in 3D space to construct geological and metallogenic models. (2) Based on geological observations and rock physical measurements to derive qualitative information about geological objects at depths using gravitational and magnetic data inversion, 2.5D forward modeling was used to identify shallow/subsurface geological objects, and the 3D probability method of potential field inversion was used for coarse constraining of geological objects at depths. (3) A combination of geological information with gravitational and magnetic data inversion information was used to determine the space–time genesis of metallogenic objects in potential mineral targets (i.e., Late Jurassic granite intrusions, ore-forming strata, and ore mineralization favorable faults). (4)A 3D model of the study area (17.7 km × 12.0 km × 2.5 km) is associated with the surface and subsurface geological data, which has geophysical information that is beneficial for identifying and evaluating potential prospecting zones.

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