Prediction of deep and peripheral metallogenic-prospective zones in the Jinchuan Cu-Ni deposit using aeromagnetic data

The Jinchuan Cu-Ni deposit is a significant mineral resource for China and even globally. Its discovery fundamentally transformed the nation from a “nickel-poor country”. With resource demands increasing, exploration targeting the deep and peripheral zones of the Jinchuan deposit has become a priority. This study focuses on identifying metallogenic-prospective zones, specifically the ore-bearing ultrabasic rock bodies. Through a detailed analysis of the mining area′s geological setting, rock physical properties, and magnetic anomaly data, multi-source information was integrated using 3D geological-geophysical modeling techniques. By accounting for the influence of mined-out areas, an initial model of the ultrabasic rock bodies was constructed. Subsequently, a joint analytical approach utilizing forward anomaly simulation and 3D constrained inversion was employed, successfully predicting the 3D spatial distribution of deep and peripheral metallogenic-prospective zones. This research provides crucial insights for prospecting predictions in the deep and peripheral zones of the Jinchuan deposit, holding strategic significance for guiding future mineral exploration and development.