Skip to main content

Advertisement

SpringerLink
Log in

Recognition of Significant Surface Soil Geochemical Anomalies Via Weighted 3D Shortest-Distance Field of Subsurface Orebodies: A Case Study in the Hongtoushan Copper Mine, NE China

  • Original Paper
  • Published:
Natural Resources Research Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Quantitative prediction of concealed mineralization is always confronted with difficulties in comprehensive analysis between 2D and 3D data and between qualitative and quantitative data. A weighted shortest-distance field method is proposed here to track, in 3D heterogeneous space, the shortest migration paths of ore-forming elements from an orebody to the ground surface, assuming that ore-forming elements migrate at less costs into fault rupture zones than in other surrounding rocks. This method was used to generate the weighted shortest-distance field of the 3D orebody model in the Hongtoushan copper mine, NE China. In addition, the field value and the geochemical soil survey data on the Earth’s surface were subjected to statistical analysis. Results showed that some geochemical anomalies are characterized by the shortest-distance field of the known orebodies, while other formerly unrecognized anomalies may possibly be related to undiscovered orebodies. This method can also be applied to comprehensive statistical analysis between a 3D geological model and 2D data on the Earth’s surface, e.g., geophysical exploration or remote sensing data.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Log in via an institution

Price excludes VAT (USA)
Tax calculation will be finalised during checkout.

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Institutional subscriptions

Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
Figure 4
Figure 5
Figure 6
Figure 7
Figure 8
Figure 9
Figure 10
Figure 11
Figure 12
Figure 13
Figure 14

Similar content being viewed by others

References

  • An, C., Liu, Z., Huang, R., & Bai, Y. (2011). Shortest distance isosurface extraction based on three-dimensional raster model. Computer Engineering, 37(8), 7–9. (in Chinese with English abstract).

    Google Scholar 

  • Anand, R. R., Aspandiar, M. F., & Noble, R. R. P. (2016). A review of metal transfer mechanisms through transported cover with emphasis on the vadose zone within the Australian regolith. Ore Geology Reviews, 73, 394–416. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.oregeorev.2015.06.018.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Anselin, L. (1995). Local indicator of spatial association-LISA. Geographical Analysis, 27(2), 91–115.

    Google Scholar 

  • Austin, J. R., Schmidt, P. W., & Foss, C. A. (2013). Magnetic modeling of iron oxide copper-gold mineralization constrained by 3D multiscale integration of petrophysical and geochemical data: Cloncurry District, Australia. Interpretation-a Journal of Subsurface Characterization, 1(1), T63-T84, https://doi.org/10.1190/int-2013-0005.1.

  • Carranza, E. J. M. (2010). Mapping of anomalies in continuous and discrete fields of stream sediment geochemical landscapes. Geochemistry: Exploration, Environment, Analysis, 10(2), 171–187.

    Google Scholar 

  • Chen, J., Lü, P., Wu, W., Zhao, J., & Hu, Q. (2007). A 3D method for predicting blind orebodies, based on a 3D visualization model and its application. Earth Science Frontiers, 14(5), 054–062. (in Chinese with English abstract).

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Chen, J., Yu, P., Shi, R., Yu, M., & Zhang, S. (2014). Research on three-dimensional quantitative prediction and evaluation methods of regional concealed ore bodies. Earth Science Frontiers, 21(5), 211–220. (in Chinese with English abstract).

    Google Scholar 

  • Cheng, Q. (2012). Singularity theory and methods for mapping geochemical anomalies caused by buried sources and for predicting undiscovered mineral deposits in covered areas. Journal of Geochemical Exploration, 122, 55–70. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gexplo.2012.07.007.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • de Kemp, E., Monecke, T., Sheshpari, M., Girard, E., Lauziere, K., Grunsky, E., et al. (2011). 3D GIS as a support for mineral discovery. Geochemistry-Exploration Environment Analysis, 11(2), 117–128. https://doi.org/10.1144/1467-7873/09-iags-014.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Dijkstra, E. W. (1959). A note on two problems in connexion with graphs. Numerische Mathematik, 1, 269–271.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Fisher, L. A., Cleverley, J. S., Pownceby, M., & MacRae, C. (2013). 3D representation of geochemical data, the corresponding alteration and associated REE mobility at the Ranger uranium deposit, Northern Territory. Australia. Mineralium Deposita, 48(8), 947–966. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00126-013-0463-6.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Gu, L., Tang, X., Zheng, Y., Wu, C., Tian, Z., Lu, J., et al. (2004). Deformation, metamorphism and ore-component remobilization of the Archaean massive sulphide deposit at Hongtoushan, Liaoning province. Acta Petrologica Sinica, 20(4), 923–934. (in Chinese with English abstract).

    Google Scholar 

  • Gu, L., Zheng, Y., Tang, X., Zaw, K., Della-Pasque, F., Wu, C., et al. (2007). Copper, gold and silver enrichment in ore mylonites within massive sulphide orebodies at Hongtoushan VHMS deposit, N.E. China. Ore Geology Reviews, 30(1), 1–29.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Houlding, S. W. (1994). 3D geoscience modeling: Computer techniques for geological characterization. Berlin: Springer.

    Book  Google Scholar 

  • INFGELP (2005). Geochemical exploration summary for alternative resource exploration in the Hongtoushan copper-zinc mine of Fushun City, Liaoning Province. Institute of Non-ferrous Geological Exploration of Liaoning Province. http://www.lnysdk.com/news.asp?BigClassID=6&SmallClassID=50. Accessed 25 Dec 2005. (in Chinese).

  • Li, F. (2008). Research and application of distance analysis based on 3D raster GIS. Computer Engineering and Applications, 44(15), 246–248. (in Chinese with English abstract).

    Google Scholar 

  • Li, N., Bagas, L., Li, X. H., Xiao, K. Y., Li, Y., Ying, L. J., et al. (2016a). An improved buffer analysis technique for model-based 3D mineral potential mapping and its application. Ore Geology Reviews, 76, 94–107. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.oregeorev.2015.12.002.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Li, R., Wang, G., & Carranza, E. J. M. (2016b). GeoCube: A 3D mineral resources quantitative prediction and assessment system. Computers and Geosciences, 89, 161–173. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cageo.2016.01.012.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Li, Y., Xiao, K., & Chen, J. (2010). Ore body simulation and resource assessment based on three-dimensional cube model. Geological Bulletin of China, 29(10), 1547–1553. (in Chinese with English abstract).

    Google Scholar 

  • Liu, L., & Peng, S. (2003). Prediction of hidden ore bodies by synthesis of geological, geophysical and geochemical information based on dynamic model in Fenghuangshan ore field, Tongling district. China. Journal of Geochemical Exploration, 81(1–3), 81–98. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gexplo.2003.08.004.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Mallet, J.-L. (2002). Geomodeling. New York: Oxford University Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Mao, X., Zhang, B., Deng, H., Zou, Y., & Chen, J. (2016). Three-dimensional morphological analysis method for geologic bodies and its parallel implementation. Computers and Geosciences, 96, 11–22. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cageo.2016.07.004.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Mao, X., Zou, Y., Chen, J., Lai, J., Peng, X., Shao, Y., et al. (2010). Three-dimensional visual prediction of concealed ore bodies in the deep and marginal parts of crisis mines: A case study of the Fenghuangshan ore field in Tongling, Anhui, China. Geologcial Bulletin of China, 29(2/3), 401–413. (in Chinese with English abstract).

    Google Scholar 

  • Pan, M., Fang, Y., & Qu, H. (2007). Discussion on several foundational issues in three-dimensional geological modeling. Geography and Geo-Information Science, 23(3), 1–5. (in Chinese with English abstract).

    Google Scholar 

  • Pouliot, J., Bedard, K., Kirkwood, D., & Lachance, B. (2008). Reasoning about geological space: Coupling 3D GeoModels and topological queries as an aid to spatial data selection. Computers and Geosciences, 34(5), 529–541. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cageo.2007.06.002.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ranaldi, M., Lelli, M., Tarchini, L., Carapezza, M. L., & Patera, A. (2016). Estimation of the geothermal potential of the Caldara di Manziana site in the Sabatini Volcanic District (central Italy) by integrating geochemical data and 3D-GIS modelling. Geothermics, 62, 115–130. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.geothermics.2016.04.003.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Reimann, C., Filzmoser, P., & Garrett, R. G. (2005). Background and threshold: Critical comparison of methods of determination. Science of the Total Environment, 346(1–3), 1–16. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2004.11.023.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Shahi, H., Ghavami, R., & Rouhani, A. K. (2016). Detection of deep and blind mineral deposits using new proposed frequency coefficients method in frequency domain of geochemical data. Journal of Geochemical Exploration, 162, 29–39. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gexplo.2015.12.006.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Tacher, L., Pomian-Srzednicki, I., & Parriaux, A. (2006). Geological uncertainties associated with 3-D subsurface models. Computers and Geosciences, 32(2), 212–221. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cageo.2005.06.010.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Wan, Y., Song, B., Geng, Y., & Liu, D. (2005a). Geochemical characteristics of Archaean basement in the Fushun–Qingyuan area, Northern Liaoning Province and its geological significance. Geological Review, 51(2), 128–137. (in Chinese with English abstract).

    Google Scholar 

  • Wan, Y., Song, B., Yang, C., & Liu, D. (2005b). Zircon SHRIMP U-Pb geochronology of archaean rocks from the Fushun–Qingyuan area, Liaoning Province and its geological significance. Acta Geologica Sinica, 79(1), 78–87. (in Chinese with English abstract).

    Google Scholar 

  • Wang, S., Gao, Y., Sun, F., & Zhang, D. (1986). Regional geological characteristics of massive sulphide deposits of Anshan group in Fushun Qinyuan area, Liaoning province. Contributions to Geology and Mineral Resources Research, 1(1), 1–19. (in Chinese with English abstract).

    Google Scholar 

  • Wang, S., Hu, S., Zhai, M., Sang, H., & Qiu, J. (1987). An application of the(40)Ar/~ (39)Ar dating technique to the formation time of Qingyuan granite-greenstone terrain in NE China. Acta Petrologica Sinica, 4(4), 55–62. (in Chinese with English abstract).

    Google Scholar 

  • Wang, X. Q., Zhang, B. M., Lin, X., Xu, S. F., Yao, W. S., & Ye, R. (2016). Geochemical challenges of diverse regolith-covered terrains for mineral exploration in China. Ore Geology Reviews, 73, 417–431. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.oregeorev.2015.08.015.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Wang, W., Zhao, J., Cheng, Q., & Liu, J. (2012). Tectonic-geochemical exploration modeling for characterizing geo-anomalies in southeastern Yunnan district, China. Journal of Geochemical Exploration, 122, 71–80. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gexplo.2012.06.017.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Wartenberg, D. (1985). Multivariate spatial correlation: A method for exploratory geographical analysis. Geographical Analysis, 17(4), 263–283.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Wu, L., Che, D., & Guo, J. (2006). The new 3DGIS for seamless integration of terrain overground and underground entities. Engineering of Surveying and Mapping, 15(5), 1–6. (in Chinese with English abstract).

    Google Scholar 

  • Wu, Q., Xu, H., & Zou, X. K. (2005). An effective method for 3D geological modeling with multi-source data integration. Computers and Geosciences, 31(1), 35–43.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Yang, Z., & Yu, B. (1984). Poly-deformation of the Archean greenstone belt in the Hongtoushan area northern Liaoning province. Journal of Changchun College of Geology, 14(1), 20–35. (in Chinese with English abstract).

    Google Scholar 

  • Zhai, M., Yang, R., Lu, W., & Shao, J. (1984). Major and trace element geochemistry of the Archean Qingyuan granite-greenstone terrane. Geological Review, 30(6), 523–535. (in Chinese with English abstract).

    Google Scholar 

  • Zhang, B., Wu, X., Wang, L., Liu, W., & Du, F. (2012). 3D quantitative prediction of concealed ore-body in surrounding areas of Hongtoushan copper deposit. The Chinese Journal of Nonferrous Metals, 22(3), 863–871. (In Chinese with English abstract).

    Google Scholar 

Download references

Acknowledgments

This study was supported by grants from the National Key Research and Development Program of China (No. 2017YFC0601503) and the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 41772348). The Co-Construction MapGIS® Library by Engineering Research Center for Geographic Information System of China and Central South University provided MapGIS® software for this study. We also thank Mr. Changyan Shi, the deputy general manager of China Nonferrous Hongtoushan Fushun Mining Group Co., Ltd, and Mr. Tiejun Yang, the deputy dean of Institute of Geology Exploration of 101 Team of The Bureau of Non-Ferrous Geology of Liaoning Province, for their meticulous arrangements and kind assistances in the works of data collection and tunnel investigation. Dr. John Carranza, the Editor-in-Chief, Dr. Yue Liu form Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and another anonymous reviewer are thanked for their positive comments, which significantly helped to improve the initial manuscript.

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. MOE Key Laboratory of Metallogenic Prediction of Nonferrous Metals and Geological Environment Monitoring, School of Geosciences and Info-Physics, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China

    Lifang Wang, Xiangbin Wu, Baoyi Zhang, Anshuo Huang, Fei Meng & Pengyao Dai

  2. State Key Laboratory of Geological Processes and Mineral Resources, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, China

    Baoyi Zhang

  3. Heilongjiang Geological Exploration and Research Institute for Nonferrous Metals, Haerbin, 150094, China

    Xuefeng Li

Authors
  1. Lifang Wang
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  2. Xiangbin Wu
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  3. Baoyi Zhang
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  4. Xuefeng Li
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  5. Anshuo Huang
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  6. Fei Meng
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  7. Pengyao Dai
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Baoyi Zhang.

Appendices

Appendix 1: Pseudocode of Weighted Shortest-Distance Field-Generating Algorithm for 3D Heterogeneous Space

figure a

Appendix 2: Pseudocode of Weighted Shortest Path Backtracking Algorithm from Any Voxel to the Source Voxel-Set

figure b

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Check for updates. Verify currency and authenticity via CrossMark

Cite this article

Wang, L., Wu, X., Zhang, B. et al. Recognition of Significant Surface Soil Geochemical Anomalies Via Weighted 3D Shortest-Distance Field of Subsurface Orebodies: A Case Study in the Hongtoushan Copper Mine, NE China. Nat Resour Res 28, 587–607 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11053-018-9410-7

Download citation

  • Received:

  • Accepted:

  • Published:

  • Issue Date:

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11053-018-9410-7

Keywords

Search

Navigation