Geophysical indicators of rare-metal ore content of Akmai-Katpar ore zone (Central Kazakhstan)

Abstract

Purpose. Identification of geophysical criteria to determine ore content indicators within the territory relying upon systematization of both geological and geophysical materials. Methodology. The research involved innovative techniques used in the field of geology, i.e. GIS technology, and such theoretical scientific approaches as analysis and synthesis of petrophysical data, and data of geophysical anomalies in the context of the analyzed ore zone. Findings. Petrophysical characteristics of Akmai-Katpar ore zone rocks have been generalized and systematized. Petrophysical model of the ore zone has been developed; changes in petrophysical rock characteristics have been defined in terms of Silurian, Devonian, Carboniferous, and Permian systems. The obtained parameters of the petrophysical model are integrated with the identified geophysical anomalies. Geophysical indicators of ore content of the rare-metal ore zone have been determined. Cartographic documents have been specified which made it possible to perform layer-by-layer mapping of Akmai-Katpar ore zone. Originality. For the first time, the systematized geological and petrophysical materials have been applied to build the petrophysical model of Akmai-Katpar ore zone and improve geophysical forecasting criteria. Practical value. It consists in the use of geophysical forecasting criteria while identifying prospective areas where rare metals occur.