Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107069
Qingchun Li , Hui Rong , Minqiang Cao , Anjing Man , Jianxin Shao , Qiwei Wang , Junxing Ren
The Qianjiadian uranium deposit in the southern Songliao Basin provides a good case study of the ore-finding criteria for sandstone-hosted uranium deposits overprinted by hydrothermal events. The uranium-bearing series within a braided river delta sedimentary system is characterized by large-scale sandstone interbedded with thin mudstone layers. The epigenetic oxidation in uranium reservoirs is represented by red sandstone and yellow sandstone. The red color unit is unevenly developed and often cuts through the bedding. The types of rocks that appear successively along the direction of decreasing oxidation are red sandstone, yellow sandstone, gray-white sandstone, gray ore-bearing sandstone, and primary gray sandstone. The hydrothermal alteration in uranium reservoirs is characterized by the occurrence of scheelite, brannerite, chalcopyrite, sphalerite, galena, and ankerite. Accordingly, the uranium ore bodies are mainly formed in the transition position from braided distributary channels and crevasse deltas to perennial interdistributary bays, and they are mainly distributed in the areas where the proportion of oxidized sand bodies is 0–20%. Hydrothermal fluids associated with basic dikes may cause uranium enrichment. The criteria for discovering new uranium deposits are primarily based on the type of sedimentary environment, interlayer oxidation, and presence of a hydrothermal overprint. Both the sandstone interbedded with dark mudstone and the oxidation–reduction transition are favorable for uranium mineralization, and the area affected by hydrothermal fluids related to basic dikes is a place to search for high-grade ore bodies. The findings of this study may potentially contribute to more efficient exploration strategies for sandstone-hosted uranium deposits overprinted by hydrothermal fluids.
{"title":"Ore-finding criteria of a hydrothermal-overprint sandstone-hosted uranium deposit: A case study from the southern Songliao Basin, China","authors":"Qingchun Li , Hui Rong , Minqiang Cao , Anjing Man , Jianxin Shao , Qiwei Wang , Junxing Ren","doi":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107069","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107069","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The Qianjiadian uranium deposit in the southern Songliao Basin provides a good case study of the ore-finding criteria for sandstone-hosted uranium deposits overprinted by hydrothermal events. The uranium-bearing series within a braided river delta sedimentary system is characterized by large-scale sandstone interbedded with thin mudstone layers. The epigenetic oxidation in uranium reservoirs is represented by red sandstone and yellow sandstone. The red color unit is unevenly developed and often cuts through the bedding. The types of rocks that appear successively along the direction of decreasing oxidation are red sandstone, yellow sandstone, gray-white sandstone, gray ore-bearing sandstone, and primary gray sandstone. The hydrothermal alteration in uranium reservoirs is characterized by the occurrence of scheelite, brannerite, chalcopyrite, sphalerite, galena, and ankerite. Accordingly, the uranium ore bodies are mainly formed in the transition position from braided distributary channels and crevasse deltas to perennial interdistributary bays, and they are mainly distributed in the areas where the proportion of oxidized sand bodies is 0–20%. Hydrothermal fluids associated with basic dikes may cause uranium enrichment. The criteria for discovering new uranium deposits are primarily based on the type of sedimentary environment, interlayer oxidation, and presence of a hydrothermal overprint. Both the sandstone interbedded with dark mudstone and the oxidation–reduction transition are favorable for uranium mineralization, and the area affected by hydrothermal fluids related to basic dikes is a place to search for high-grade ore bodies. The findings of this study may potentially contribute to more efficient exploration strategies for sandstone-hosted uranium deposits overprinted by hydrothermal fluids.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19644,"journal":{"name":"Ore Geology Reviews","volume":"188 ","pages":"Article 107069"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145925463","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107101
Zi-Teng Li , Xiao-Yong Yang , Qi Chen , Qin-Qin Shen , Yang Cai , Ke Shi
The Dayinshan porphyry–skarn gold-polymetallic deposit, located within the Northern Zhejiang Metallogenic District, is situated at the tectonic junction between the Middle-lower Yangtze River metallogenic belt (MLYB) and the Qin-Hang metallogenic belt (Q-HB). However, the metallogenic age, genetic mechanism, and regional tectonic significance of this deposit are still poorly constrained. Based on detailed field investigations, this study conducted U–Pb dating of zircon and garnet from drill core ZKH101, combined with in situ trace element analyses of pyrite, zircon, and garnet, together with whole-rock major and trace element geochemical analyses and Isocon-based mass balance calculations on altered rocks. The results reveal two magmatic episodes at 144–136 Ma and 133–129 Ma, with the mineralization age constrained to ∼ 137 Ma, consistent with the Early Cretaceous Cu–Au metallogenic event in the MLYB. The geochemical characteristics of the mineralized intrusions are transitional between normal arc rocks and adakitic rocks, formed in a setting of partial melting of a thickened lower crust. This indicates thatthe Dayinshan deposit shows a closer affinity to the MLYB than to the Q-HB, and should be regarded as part of the transitional zone at the southeastern margin of the MLYB. Isocon analysis further reveals significant mobilization and re-enrichment of ore-forming elements in the alteration system: strong influx of Mo (mass gain up to + 872.38 %) in the potassic zone, and systematic enrichment of ore-forming elements in the sericitic + propylitic alteration zones, indicating a typical porphyry–skarn mineralization mechanism. Future exploration should focus on intrusions older than 135 Ma with ΔFMQ > +1 in the mining area and the southern volcanic-covered region.
{"title":"Dating and geochemical constraints on the origin and regional exploration of the Dayinshan deposit, east China","authors":"Zi-Teng Li , Xiao-Yong Yang , Qi Chen , Qin-Qin Shen , Yang Cai , Ke Shi","doi":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107101","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107101","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The Dayinshan porphyry–skarn gold-polymetallic deposit, located within the Northern Zhejiang Metallogenic District, is situated at the tectonic junction between the Middle-lower Yangtze River metallogenic belt (MLYB) and the Qin-Hang metallogenic belt (Q-HB). However, the metallogenic age, genetic mechanism, and regional tectonic significance of this deposit are still poorly constrained. Based on detailed field investigations, this study conducted U–Pb dating of zircon and garnet from drill core ZKH101, combined with in situ trace element analyses of pyrite, zircon, and garnet, together with whole-rock major and trace element geochemical analyses and Isocon-based mass balance calculations on altered rocks. The results reveal two magmatic episodes at 144–136 Ma and 133–129 Ma, with the mineralization age constrained to ∼ 137 Ma, consistent with the Early Cretaceous Cu–Au metallogenic event in the MLYB. The geochemical characteristics of the mineralized intrusions are transitional between normal arc rocks and adakitic rocks, formed in a setting of partial melting of a thickened lower crust. This indicates thatthe Dayinshan deposit shows a closer affinity to the MLYB than to the Q-HB, and should be regarded as part of the transitional zone at the southeastern margin of the MLYB. Isocon analysis further reveals significant mobilization and re-enrichment of ore-forming elements in the alteration system: strong influx of Mo (mass gain up to + 872.38 %) in the potassic zone, and systematic enrichment of ore-forming elements in the sericitic + propylitic alteration zones, indicating a typical porphyry–skarn mineralization mechanism. Future exploration should focus on intrusions older than 135 Ma with ΔFMQ > +1 in the mining area and the southern volcanic-covered region.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19644,"journal":{"name":"Ore Geology Reviews","volume":"188 ","pages":"Article 107101"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145925469","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107079
Xuan Wu , Li-Xing Li , Jing-Wen Mao , Hou-Min Li , Yu-Bo Ma , Yi Wang , Yang Dai , Xiao-Hui Wang
Phosphate deposits of both sedimentary and igneous origins are the most important sources of phosphorus in the world. Neoarchean metamorphic series-hosted apatite-magnetite deposits in the northern North China Craton (NCC) are important sources of P and Fe. However, the genesis of some deposits remains controversial, as they are proposed to have formed through sedimentary-metamorphic processes in the phosphorus-deficient Neoarchean environment. The Wulanwusu P-Fe deposit in the Jianping area is a typical example, with the P-Fe mineralization typically composed of plagioclase, amphibole, biotite, apatite and Fe-Ti oxides. This study aims to constrain the geological controls on P-Fe mineralization through petrographic, geochronological, and geochemical analyses of P-Fe ores. Zircon U-Pb geochronology yielded a weighted crystallization age at 1730 ± 6 Ma, precisely constraining the timing of mineralization to the late Paleoproterozoic. Petrographic observations, whole-rock and apatite geochemistry collectively indicate that the mineralization is associated with a mafic magmatic event, supporting its classification as a late Paleoproterozoic igneous P-Fe deposit. Our results clearly rule out a previously suggested link between P-Fe mineralization and metamorphosed Neoarchean volcano-sedimentary rocks. The Nd-Hf isotopic compositions suggest that the parental magma was derived from an enriched subcontinental lithospheric mantle source. Combined with geochronological and geochemical evidence, these results indicate that the formation of the Wulanwusu P-Fe deposit is linked to the late Paleoproterozoic AMCG suite magmatism in the northern NCC and occurred in a post-collisional extensional stage following the convergence of the eastern and western blocks of the NCC.
{"title":"Geochronology and geochemistry of the Wulanwusu P-Fe deposit, northern North China Craton: Evidence for a genetic link to the Paleoproterozoic anorthosite-mangerite-charnockite-granite (AMCG) suite","authors":"Xuan Wu , Li-Xing Li , Jing-Wen Mao , Hou-Min Li , Yu-Bo Ma , Yi Wang , Yang Dai , Xiao-Hui Wang","doi":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107079","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107079","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Phosphate deposits of both sedimentary and igneous origins are the most important sources of phosphorus in the world. Neoarchean metamorphic series-hosted apatite-magnetite deposits in the northern North China Craton (NCC) are important sources of P and Fe. However, the genesis of some deposits remains controversial, as they are proposed to have formed through sedimentary-metamorphic processes in the phosphorus-deficient Neoarchean environment. The Wulanwusu P-Fe deposit in the Jianping area is a typical example, with the P-Fe mineralization typically composed of plagioclase, amphibole, biotite, apatite and Fe-Ti oxides. This study aims to constrain the geological controls on P-Fe mineralization through petrographic, geochronological, and geochemical analyses of P-Fe ores. Zircon U-Pb geochronology yielded a weighted crystallization age at 1730 ± 6 Ma, precisely constraining the timing of mineralization to the late Paleoproterozoic. Petrographic observations, whole-rock and apatite geochemistry collectively indicate that the mineralization is associated with a mafic magmatic event, supporting its classification as a late Paleoproterozoic igneous P-Fe deposit. Our results clearly rule out a previously suggested link between P-Fe mineralization and metamorphosed Neoarchean volcano-sedimentary rocks. The Nd-Hf isotopic compositions suggest that the parental magma was derived from an enriched subcontinental lithospheric mantle source. Combined with geochronological and geochemical evidence, these results indicate that the formation of the Wulanwusu P-Fe deposit is linked to the late Paleoproterozoic AMCG suite magmatism in the northern NCC and occurred in a post-collisional extensional stage following the convergence of the eastern and western blocks of the NCC.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19644,"journal":{"name":"Ore Geology Reviews","volume":"188 ","pages":"Article 107079"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145925298","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107084
Lanfang He , Ping Shen , Liang Li , Sihao Wang , Xiaochi Liu , Rujun Chen , Kezhang Qin
The Koktokay (KOK) pegmatite field in the Altai Metallogenic Belt in Xinjiang is one of the largest beryllium mines in the world, as well as an important lithium, niobium, and tantalum deposit for China. The KOK No. 3 pegmatite ring is a very typical pegmatite ring among the world’s pegmatite systems. Great progress has been achieved in studies of the KOK rare metal ore deposit, but the metallogenic model and controlling structure of the deposit remain controversial. In addition, the prospects of mineral resources in the KOK district and vicinity are unclear. In this study, we propose a metallogenic model for understanding the rare metal mineral system of the KOK based on an metallogenic electromagnetism study using multiscale electromagnetic exploration and petro-electromagnetism analyses. The geo-electrical structure of the shallow part (to 1,000 m) and deep part (to 30 km) of the KOK rare metal mining district are explored through audio magnetotelluric sounding (AMT) and broadband frequency magnetotelluric sounding (BMT). The results of petro-electromagnetism analyses (complex impedance measurements) of rock samples show that the KOK pegmatite has low-resistivity properties. Resistivity contour maps at iso-depths of 200 m and 400 m from AMT exploration show that a high-resistivity granite mass surrounds the KOK pegmatite field. The pegmatite, along with the wall rocks, are characterized as medium to relatively low resistivity. The BMT results reveal low-resistivity bodies within a depth range of 15–30 km in the southern part of the KOK pegmatite field, which are speculated to reflect residual magma chambers based on the comprehensive interpretation from geophysical, geochemical and geological analysis. The BMT results also indicate resistivity differences between the pathway from the speculated ancient magma chambers to the terminal mineral deposits and surrounding rocks. The source of this system is speculated as a magma chamber, which features low resistivity and lies in the lower crust of the south of the No. 3 pegmatite deposit. Geochemical analysis results indicate that the rare metal pegmatite has experienced highly differentiated evolution. Based on a comprehensive understanding of the geophysical observations and geochemical constraints, we conclude that the mineral system of the rare metal pegmatite at the KOK is controlled by a magmatic system. The KOK No. 3 pegmatite deposit lies in the north of the pegmatite field. We suggest that the south of the KOK pegmatite field also has favorable resource potential.
{"title":"Metallogenic electromagnetism study reveals the pegmatite rare metal mineral system in Koktokay, Altai, Western China","authors":"Lanfang He , Ping Shen , Liang Li , Sihao Wang , Xiaochi Liu , Rujun Chen , Kezhang Qin","doi":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107084","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107084","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The Koktokay (KOK) pegmatite field in the Altai Metallogenic Belt in Xinjiang is one of the largest beryllium mines in the world, as well as an important lithium, niobium, and tantalum deposit for China. The KOK No. 3 pegmatite ring is a very typical pegmatite ring among the world’s pegmatite systems. Great progress has been achieved in studies of the KOK rare metal ore deposit, but the metallogenic model and controlling structure of the deposit remain controversial. In addition, the prospects of mineral resources in the KOK district and vicinity are unclear. In this study, we propose a metallogenic model for understanding the rare metal mineral system of the KOK based on an metallogenic electromagnetism study using multiscale electromagnetic exploration and petro-electromagnetism analyses. The geo-electrical structure of the shallow part (to 1,000 m) and deep part (to 30 km) of the KOK rare metal mining district are explored through audio magnetotelluric sounding (AMT) and broadband frequency magnetotelluric sounding (BMT). The results of petro-electromagnetism analyses (complex impedance measurements) of rock samples show that the KOK pegmatite has low-resistivity properties. Resistivity contour maps at <em>iso</em>-depths of 200 m and 400 m from AMT exploration show that a high-resistivity granite mass surrounds the KOK pegmatite field. The pegmatite, along with the wall rocks, are characterized as medium to relatively low resistivity. The BMT results reveal low-resistivity bodies within a depth range of 15–30 km in the southern part of the KOK pegmatite field, which are speculated to reflect residual magma chambers based on the comprehensive interpretation from geophysical, geochemical and geological analysis. The BMT results also indicate resistivity differences between the pathway from the speculated ancient magma chambers to the terminal mineral deposits and surrounding rocks. The source of this system is speculated as a magma chamber, which features low resistivity and lies in the lower crust of the south of the No. 3 pegmatite deposit. Geochemical analysis results indicate that the rare metal pegmatite has experienced highly differentiated evolution. Based on a comprehensive understanding of the geophysical observations and geochemical constraints, we conclude that the mineral system of the rare metal pegmatite at the KOK is controlled by a magmatic system. The KOK No. 3 pegmatite deposit lies in the north of the pegmatite field. We suggest that the south of the KOK pegmatite field also has favorable resource potential.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19644,"journal":{"name":"Ore Geology Reviews","volume":"188 ","pages":"Article 107084"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145925300","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107061
Yu-Fang Zhong , Yuan-Yuan Liu , Chang-Qian Ma , Kai-Pei Lu , Lian-Xun Wang
Large volumes of Late Mesozoic granites are exposed in South China, associated with extensive polymetallic (W, Sn, U, Ni, Ta, Li, REE) mineralization. However, the genetic relationships between barren granitoids and variously mineralized granitoids within a composite pluton require further research. Additionally, in a certain mining district, the genetic relationships among adjacent, contemporaneous plutons are poorly constrained. Some of these plutons are barren, while others host tungsten deposits, and still others contain Nb-Ta deposits. In this study, we focus on three Late Jurassic granite plutons in the Yichun mining district, and conduct a comprehensive investigation of these plutons. This includes LA-ICP-MS zircon and monazite U-Pb dating, as well as analyses of zircon Hf isotopes and trace elements, whole-rock geochemistry, and Nd isotopes on representative granite samples. Based on our new data and previously published studies, and from the insights of the mush model and magma plumbing systems, we propose the following key inferences: (1) Multiple emplacements of magma batches drove extensive in-situ differentiation within a magma reservoir. (2) Highly fractionated granites and main-phase granitoids within a composite pluton may have been derived from different magma reservoirs; more evolved magmas likely originated from a deeper magma reservoir. (3) The degree of magmatic evolution serves as a crucial factor governing the diversity of W and Ta-Nb mineralization within rare-metal granites. (4) In South China, extremely fractionated granitoids can serve as important indicators for tungsten (W) deposit exploration, and the Yichun district remains prospective for large-scale tungsten deposits at depth. This study provides critical insights into the evolution of granitic magmas and their associated metallogenic processes, thus holding important implications for regional mineralization exploration.
{"title":"Unraveling the petrogenetic links: Late Jurassic Barren Granites, W-bearing granites, and Nb-Ta-Li- mineralized granites in Yichun Mining District, South China","authors":"Yu-Fang Zhong , Yuan-Yuan Liu , Chang-Qian Ma , Kai-Pei Lu , Lian-Xun Wang","doi":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107061","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107061","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Large volumes of Late Mesozoic granites are exposed in South China, associated with extensive polymetallic (W, Sn, U, Ni, Ta, Li, REE) mineralization. However, the genetic relationships between barren granitoids and variously mineralized granitoids within a composite pluton require further research. Additionally, in a certain mining district, the genetic relationships among adjacent, contemporaneous plutons are poorly constrained. Some of these plutons are barren, while others host tungsten deposits, and still others contain Nb-Ta deposits. In this study, we focus on three Late Jurassic granite plutons in the Yichun mining district, and conduct a comprehensive investigation of these plutons. This includes LA-ICP-MS zircon and monazite U-Pb dating, as well as analyses of zircon Hf isotopes and trace elements, whole-rock geochemistry, and Nd isotopes on representative granite samples. Based on our new data and previously published studies, and from the insights of the mush model and magma plumbing systems, we propose the following key inferences: (1) Multiple emplacements of magma batches drove extensive in-situ differentiation within a magma reservoir. (2) Highly fractionated granites and main-phase granitoids within a composite pluton may have been derived from different magma reservoirs; more evolved magmas likely originated from a deeper magma reservoir. (3) The degree of magmatic evolution serves as a crucial factor governing the diversity of W and Ta-Nb mineralization within rare-metal granites. (4) In South China, extremely fractionated granitoids can serve as important indicators for tungsten (W) deposit exploration, and the Yichun district remains prospective for large-scale tungsten deposits at depth. This study provides critical insights into the evolution of granitic magmas and their associated metallogenic processes, thus holding important implications for regional mineralization exploration.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19644,"journal":{"name":"Ore Geology Reviews","volume":"188 ","pages":"Article 107061"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145925301","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107100
HuiHui Rao , JiaXin Luo , MaoYong He , YuanYuan Cheng , Hong Chang , Zhengyan Li , Jin Wen , Yinggao Liu , Jinrui Chen
<div><div>Potash, a strategic mineral resource that impacts the development of global agriculture and industry, has received considerable attention regarding its worldwide distribution, genesis, and exploration prospects. Influenced by various tectonic events and climatic changes throughout geological history, the distribution of potash resources exhibits significant spatio-temporal characteristics. Potash deposits have been documented in a variety of basin types globally, including stable cratonic basins, continental rift systems, foreland basins, intermontane depressions, and other tectonic settings. The metallogenic epochs range from the Cambrian of the Paleozoic to the Quaternary of the Cenozoic, with potash formation primarily occurring in the Paleozoic, followed by the Mesozoic, and the least quantity formed in the Cenozoic. Based on the unique metallogenic environments and occurrence characteristics of these mineral deposits, potash deposits can be classified into three main types: marine, continental, and marine-continental transitional facies. Among them, marine potash deposits are large in scale and mainly formed in stable cratonic basins. Continental potash deposits, on the other hand, are smaller in scale and mostly distributed in intermountain depression basins within continents, and primarily characterized by salt lake potash. Marine-continental transitional potash deposits exhibit both marine and continental features, are mostly distributed in continental rifts or marine-continental transitional zones, and have complex metallogenic processes. Previous studies indicate that potash deposit formation results from the interplay of multiple ore-controlling factors, including tectonics, paleoclimate conditions, material sources, paleogeographic environment, and marine geochemistry. The metallogenic regularity is primarily determined by the interaction of the three dynamic systems of “tectonics-climate--material source” in specific spatio-temporal context. As a result, potash deposits across different global regions and geological periods generally exhibit significant diversity in metallogenic patterns, reflecting their unique mineralization environments and evolutionary histories of tectonic processes. This heterogeneity in genetic mechanisms means that a single metallogenic model cannot universally explain the formation of all global potash deposits. Consequently, worldwide potash exploration faces substantial challenges. Moreover, the specificity of these mineralization mechanisms further exacerbates the highly uneven distribution of global potash resources, creating severe challenges for countries with urgent food security needs in achieving sustainable potash supply. Consequently, building upon existing resource development, it is necessary to systematically enhance potash exploration potential and ensure sustainable supply capacity through deep potash exploration, AI-powered predictions, rational utilization of unexploited potassium
{"title":"Spatio-temporal distribution patterns, genesis, metallogenic regularity, and prospects of global potash resources","authors":"HuiHui Rao , JiaXin Luo , MaoYong He , YuanYuan Cheng , Hong Chang , Zhengyan Li , Jin Wen , Yinggao Liu , Jinrui Chen","doi":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107100","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107100","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Potash, a strategic mineral resource that impacts the development of global agriculture and industry, has received considerable attention regarding its worldwide distribution, genesis, and exploration prospects. Influenced by various tectonic events and climatic changes throughout geological history, the distribution of potash resources exhibits significant spatio-temporal characteristics. Potash deposits have been documented in a variety of basin types globally, including stable cratonic basins, continental rift systems, foreland basins, intermontane depressions, and other tectonic settings. The metallogenic epochs range from the Cambrian of the Paleozoic to the Quaternary of the Cenozoic, with potash formation primarily occurring in the Paleozoic, followed by the Mesozoic, and the least quantity formed in the Cenozoic. Based on the unique metallogenic environments and occurrence characteristics of these mineral deposits, potash deposits can be classified into three main types: marine, continental, and marine-continental transitional facies. Among them, marine potash deposits are large in scale and mainly formed in stable cratonic basins. Continental potash deposits, on the other hand, are smaller in scale and mostly distributed in intermountain depression basins within continents, and primarily characterized by salt lake potash. Marine-continental transitional potash deposits exhibit both marine and continental features, are mostly distributed in continental rifts or marine-continental transitional zones, and have complex metallogenic processes. Previous studies indicate that potash deposit formation results from the interplay of multiple ore-controlling factors, including tectonics, paleoclimate conditions, material sources, paleogeographic environment, and marine geochemistry. The metallogenic regularity is primarily determined by the interaction of the three dynamic systems of “tectonics-climate--material source” in specific spatio-temporal context. As a result, potash deposits across different global regions and geological periods generally exhibit significant diversity in metallogenic patterns, reflecting their unique mineralization environments and evolutionary histories of tectonic processes. This heterogeneity in genetic mechanisms means that a single metallogenic model cannot universally explain the formation of all global potash deposits. Consequently, worldwide potash exploration faces substantial challenges. Moreover, the specificity of these mineralization mechanisms further exacerbates the highly uneven distribution of global potash resources, creating severe challenges for countries with urgent food security needs in achieving sustainable potash supply. Consequently, building upon existing resource development, it is necessary to systematically enhance potash exploration potential and ensure sustainable supply capacity through deep potash exploration, AI-powered predictions, rational utilization of unexploited potassium","PeriodicalId":19644,"journal":{"name":"Ore Geology Reviews","volume":"188 ","pages":"Article 107100"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145925372","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107089
Xiaodan Liu , Guanglai Li , Xiaofei Hao , Shicheng Wang , Jialin Zhong , Yongle Yang , Ji Zhang , Chao Huang
The Baituyingzi tungsten-polymetallic deposit, located on the northern margin of the North China Craton, is the region's only large-scale tungsten deposit. This deposit features two distinct mineralization types: porphyry-style molybdenum (Mo) mineralization and tungsten (W) mineralization within silicified fracture zones. This study focuses on the tungsten mineralization within silicified fracture zones in which wolframite is the primary ore mineral, with subordinate scheelite. Wolframite crystallized during the oxide stage exhibited Fe/Mn molar ratios of 0.04–0.44. U–Pb dating of wolframite yielded a low-intercept Tera-Wasserburg age of 222.2 ± 4.1 Ma. This indicates that the deposit is one of the few large-scale tungsten deposits formed during the Indosinian period in China. The scheelite in the deposit can be classified into four distinct generations, each exhibiting unique geochemical characteristics. Sch-I is notably enriched in Nb and Na but depleted in Sr and Mo. It displays high total rare earth element (REE) contents with negligible light-to-heavy REE fractionation (LREE/HREE = 0.92–1.15) and a weak negative Eu anomaly (δEu = 0.67–0.88). With the evolution of fluids, the Nb and Na contents Sch-II and Sch-III gradually decrease, while Sr and Mo contents show an overall significant increase. The total REE content decreases to 44.19 ppm–296.24 ppm (Sch-II) and 12.29 ppm–115.02 ppm (Sch-III), exhibiting a positive Eu anomaly. In Sch-Ⅳ, the REE content further decreases, Sr content also declines, while Mo content increases significantly (Mo/W ratio: 0.48–1.46), with some phases transitioning to powellite (W). During this stage, Mo extensively substitutes for W and incorporates into the scheelite structure.
A comprehensive geochemical and geochronological data analysis indicates that the Baituyingzi W polymetallic deposit synchronized with the Indosinian orogeny (222.2 ± 4.1 Ma) following the final closure of the Paleo-Asian Ocean along the NCC-Siberia collision zone. Mineralisation occurred during post-collisional extensional tectonics, with ore-forming fluids evolving from reduced to oxidized conditions during the main metallogenic stage. Late-stage meteoric fluids remobilised Mo from earlier porphyry mineralisation, triggering scheelite dissolution-reprecipitation and subsequent tungstite–molybdenite formation.
{"title":"Metallogenic age and fluid evolution of the Baituyingzi W-polymetallic deposit, northern margin of North China Craton: constraints from wolframite U–Pb chronology and scheelite geochemistry","authors":"Xiaodan Liu , Guanglai Li , Xiaofei Hao , Shicheng Wang , Jialin Zhong , Yongle Yang , Ji Zhang , Chao Huang","doi":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107089","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107089","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The Baituyingzi tungsten-polymetallic deposit, located on the northern margin of the North China Craton, is the region's only large-scale tungsten deposit. This deposit features two distinct mineralization types: porphyry-style molybdenum (Mo) mineralization and tungsten (W) mineralization within silicified fracture zones. This study focuses on the tungsten mineralization within silicified fracture zones in which wolframite is the primary ore mineral, with subordinate scheelite. Wolframite crystallized during the oxide stage exhibited Fe/Mn molar ratios of 0.04–0.44. U–Pb dating of wolframite yielded a low-intercept Tera-Wasserburg age of 222.2 ± 4.1 Ma. This indicates that the deposit is one of the few large-scale tungsten deposits formed during the Indosinian period in China. The scheelite in the deposit can be classified into four distinct generations, each exhibiting unique geochemical characteristics. Sch-I is notably enriched in Nb and Na but depleted in Sr and Mo. It displays high total rare earth element (REE) contents with negligible light-to-heavy REE fractionation (LREE/HREE = 0.92–1.15) and a weak negative Eu anomaly (δEu = 0.67–0.88). With the evolution of fluids, the Nb and Na contents Sch-II and Sch-III gradually decrease, while Sr and Mo contents show an overall significant increase. The total REE content decreases to 44.19 ppm–296.24 ppm (Sch-II) and 12.29 ppm–115.02 ppm (Sch-III), exhibiting a positive Eu anomaly. In Sch-Ⅳ, the REE content further decreases, Sr content also declines, while Mo content increases significantly (Mo/W ratio: 0.48–1.46), with some phases transitioning to powellite (W). During this stage, Mo extensively substitutes for W and incorporates into the scheelite structure.</div><div>A comprehensive geochemical and geochronological data analysis indicates that the Baituyingzi W polymetallic deposit synchronized with the Indosinian orogeny (222.2 ± 4.1 Ma) following the final closure of the Paleo-Asian Ocean along the NCC-Siberia collision zone. Mineralisation occurred during post-collisional extensional tectonics, with ore-forming fluids evolving from reduced to oxidized conditions during the main metallogenic stage. Late-stage meteoric fluids remobilised Mo from earlier porphyry mineralisation, triggering scheelite dissolution-reprecipitation and subsequent tungstite–molybdenite formation.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19644,"journal":{"name":"Ore Geology Reviews","volume":"188 ","pages":"Article 107089"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145925798","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107087
Yan Zhang , Junxi Feng , Qing Chen
The offshore slope of Qiongdongnan Basin represent a highly prospective zone for gas-hydrate prospecting in the northern South China Sea. The geochemical characteristics of sediment elements in this area provide significant insights into deep methane migration and hydrate formation. Traditional methods for hydrate identification, such as bottom simulating reflectors and gas geochemistry, often suffer from limited accuracy and non-unique responses. This study introduces multifractal theory and local singularity analysis to systematically investigate the fractal characteristics of sediment element distribution from an element geochemical perspective, as well as their implications for in the exploration of gas hydrates. Based on data from major, trace, and rare earth elements in surface sediment samples in an area for gas hydrate investigation in the Qiongdongnan Basin, and considering the regional geological context, we find that the distribution of sediment elements exhibits pronounced multifractal characteristics. The multifractal spectrum (f(α)) parameters effectively characterize the complexity of element spatial distribution, revealing the evolution of sediment sources and depositional environments. Specifically, the upper layer is dominated by authigenic marine sediments, reflecting a stable depositional environment; the middle layer represents a transition from authigenic marine sediments to terrigenous clastic deposits; while the lower layer indicates a mixture of both, suggesting the influence of multi-phase sedimentation and fluid activity. Local singularity analysis further identified regions with low singularity indices (α) that are highly coupled with enrichment zones of elements such as Ca and Sr. These regions may be associated with redox interfaces related to methane leakage and exhibit a high spatial overlap with known hydrate sampling locations, indicating that fractal parameters can serve as effective geochemical indicators for identifying hydrate accumulation zones. This research combines fractal theory with element geochemistry of sediments, providing a new quantitative approach and methodological support for gas hydrate exploration in the Qiongdongnan Basin, and significantly enhances our understanding of the mechanisms of hydrate formation in the northern South China Sea.
{"title":"Study of the fractal characteristics of sediment element geochemistry in the Qiongdongnan Basin and its implications for gas hydrates","authors":"Yan Zhang , Junxi Feng , Qing Chen","doi":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107087","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107087","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The offshore slope of Qiongdongnan Basin represent a highly prospective zone for gas-hydrate prospecting in the northern South China Sea. The geochemical characteristics of sediment elements in this area provide significant insights into deep methane migration and hydrate formation. Traditional methods for hydrate identification, such as bottom simulating reflectors and gas geochemistry, often suffer from limited accuracy and non-unique responses. This study introduces multifractal theory and local singularity analysis to systematically investigate the fractal characteristics of sediment element distribution from an element geochemical perspective, as well as their implications for in the exploration of gas hydrates. Based on data from major, trace, and rare earth elements in surface sediment samples in an area for gas hydrate investigation in the Qiongdongnan Basin, and considering the regional geological context, we find that the distribution of sediment elements exhibits pronounced multifractal characteristics. The multifractal spectrum (<em>f</em>(α)) parameters effectively characterize the complexity of element spatial distribution, revealing the evolution of sediment sources and depositional environments. Specifically, the upper layer is dominated by authigenic marine sediments, reflecting a stable depositional environment; the middle layer represents a transition from authigenic marine sediments to terrigenous clastic deposits; while the lower layer indicates a mixture of both, suggesting the influence of multi-phase sedimentation and fluid activity. Local singularity analysis further identified regions with low singularity indices (α) that are highly coupled with enrichment zones of elements such as Ca and Sr. These regions may be associated with redox interfaces related to methane leakage and exhibit a high spatial overlap with known hydrate sampling locations, indicating that fractal parameters can serve as effective geochemical indicators for identifying hydrate accumulation zones. This research combines fractal theory with element geochemistry of sediments, providing a new quantitative approach and methodological support for gas hydrate exploration in the Qiongdongnan Basin, and significantly enhances our understanding of the mechanisms of hydrate formation in the northern South China Sea.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19644,"journal":{"name":"Ore Geology Reviews","volume":"188 ","pages":"Article 107087"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145925799","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107096
Nazir Ul Islam , Lei Liu , Zhenhua Guo , Yasir Shaheen Khalil , Said Mukhtar Ahmad
Recent advancements in hyperspectral remote sensing have revolutionized mineral detection and enhanced the precision of lithological mapping. The Chitral region, situated in the northwest of Pakistan’s collisional belt, is characterized by the Hindukush mountainous terrain and emerges as a prominent metallogenic zone. The regional structural trend of the region hosts a diverse array of significant mineral potentials, i.e., iron ore bodies, orogenic gold occurrences, polymetallic veins, and copper mineralization, which offers an exciting opportunity to explore these economic mineral. To assess these potentials, this research utilizes ZY1-02D hyperspectral data to delineate mineral information for identifying prospective alteration zones in the Chitral area. We applied False Color Composite (FCC), Mixture Tuned Matched Filtering (MTMF), Spectral Angle Mapper (SAM), and Spectral Index (SI) techniques to ZY1-02D data to detect alteration minerals and delineate prospective zones. The analysis of ZY1-02D data enabled the identification of muscovite/sericite, kaolinite, epidote, chlorite, and calcite, highlighting significant mineralogical changes linked to alteration events. The alteration mineral maps generated from ZY1-02D data align well with established deposits and field assessments, which reveal copper and iron oxide mineralization at four specific spots, i.e., Sewakhth, Chitral City along Jughur Gol, Drosh, and Maroi area. This study highlights the efficacy of ZY1-02D data in enhancing mineral exploration and lithological mapping, providing significant insights for the geoscientific community and advancing the development of remote sensing applications in geological research.
{"title":"Delineation of new mineral prospects using ZY1-02D data in the Chitral Region, Hindukush, NW Pakistan","authors":"Nazir Ul Islam , Lei Liu , Zhenhua Guo , Yasir Shaheen Khalil , Said Mukhtar Ahmad","doi":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107096","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107096","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Recent advancements in hyperspectral remote sensing have revolutionized mineral detection and enhanced the precision of lithological mapping. The Chitral region, situated in the northwest of Pakistan’s collisional belt, is characterized by the Hindukush mountainous terrain and emerges as a prominent metallogenic zone. The regional structural trend of the region hosts a diverse array of significant mineral potentials, i.e., iron ore bodies, orogenic gold occurrences, polymetallic veins, and copper mineralization, which offers an exciting opportunity to explore these economic mineral. To assess these potentials, this research utilizes ZY1-02D hyperspectral data to delineate mineral information for identifying prospective alteration zones in the Chitral area. We applied False Color Composite (FCC), Mixture Tuned Matched Filtering (MTMF), Spectral Angle Mapper (SAM), and Spectral Index (SI) techniques to ZY1-02D data to detect alteration minerals and delineate prospective zones. The analysis of ZY1-02D data enabled the identification of muscovite/sericite, kaolinite, epidote, chlorite, and calcite, highlighting significant mineralogical changes linked to alteration events. The alteration mineral maps generated from ZY1-02D data align well with established deposits and field assessments, which reveal copper and iron oxide mineralization at four specific spots, i.e., Sewakhth, Chitral City along Jughur Gol, Drosh, and Maroi area. This study highlights the efficacy of ZY1-02D data in enhancing mineral exploration and lithological mapping, providing significant insights for the geoscientific community and advancing the development of remote sensing applications in geological research.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19644,"journal":{"name":"Ore Geology Reviews","volume":"188 ","pages":"Article 107096"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145925774","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01DOI: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107098
Tianyuan Chen , Qishun Fan , Guang Han , Jiubo Liu , Hongkui Bai , Qing Miao , Xiaodong Zhang , Haiyi Bu , Haotian Yang , Yixuan Wang , Tongyan Lü
The K-bearing sand-gravel brine (SGB) deposits have been discovered in the large pediment alluvial fans in the northern and western Qaidam Basin (QB) on the northern Tibetan Plateau (TP). The metallogenic model of the brine deposits remains controversial. In particular, the formation age of the reservoir and its formation mechanism are still unclear. In this study, by utilizing lithological logging, K-content profiling, and multi-dating (OSL, ESR, TCN) of three deep cores, we refined the reservoir chronology and metallogenic model of the new SGB deposits in the Mahai Basin, northern QB. Some key conclusions include: 1) The SGB reservoir was deposited during the Middle Pleistocene (1.1–0.3 Ma), which was driven by the combination of Kunhuang tectonic movement and mid-Pleistocene transition climatic events (1.2–0.6 Ma). 2) A hypothesis was proposed that the sedimentation of salt layers in the terminal salt lakes is later than the formation of alluvial fan in a closed sub-playa. This assumption is verified by the forming ages of fan-lake (salts) in the Dalangtan and Mahai playas. Combining with the spatial-temporary evolution of the anti-S shape on the playas in the QB, we proposed that the age and scales of salt-forming in the respective sub-playa can indicate the depositional age and extent of corresponding SGB. 3) The northward migration of the depocenter in the Mahai Basin, driven by tectonic tilting, led to the lateral migration of brines and the subsequent formation of K-bearing SGB deposits within the pediment alluvial fan reservoirs. 4) The metallogenic model of the fan-lake system in the QB can serve as a theoretical foundation for prospecting deep brine resources in the pediment alluvial fans of various playas, both now and in the future.
{"title":"Depositional age and metallogenic model of K-bearing sand-gravel brine in pediment alluvial fans of the northern Qaidam Basin, Tibetan Plateau","authors":"Tianyuan Chen , Qishun Fan , Guang Han , Jiubo Liu , Hongkui Bai , Qing Miao , Xiaodong Zhang , Haiyi Bu , Haotian Yang , Yixuan Wang , Tongyan Lü","doi":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107098","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.oregeorev.2025.107098","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The K-bearing sand-gravel brine (SGB) deposits have been discovered in the large pediment alluvial fans in the northern and western Qaidam Basin (QB) on the northern Tibetan Plateau (TP). The metallogenic model of the brine deposits remains controversial. In particular, the formation age of the reservoir and its formation mechanism are still unclear. In this study, by utilizing lithological logging, K-content profiling, and multi-dating (OSL, ESR, TCN) of three deep cores, we refined the reservoir chronology and metallogenic model of the new SGB deposits in the Mahai Basin, northern QB. Some key conclusions include: 1) The SGB reservoir was deposited during the Middle Pleistocene (1.1–0.3 Ma), which was driven by the combination of Kunhuang tectonic movement and mid-Pleistocene transition climatic events (1.2–0.6 Ma). 2) A hypothesis was proposed that the sedimentation of salt layers in the terminal salt lakes is later than the formation of alluvial fan in a closed sub-playa. This assumption is verified by the forming ages of fan-lake (salts) in the Dalangtan and Mahai playas. Combining with the spatial-temporary evolution of the anti-S shape on the playas in the QB, we proposed that the age and scales of salt-forming in the respective sub-playa can indicate the depositional age and extent of corresponding SGB. 3) The northward migration of the depocenter in the Mahai Basin, driven by tectonic tilting, led to the lateral migration of brines and the subsequent formation of K-bearing SGB deposits within the pediment alluvial fan reservoirs. 4) The metallogenic model of the fan-lake system in the QB can serve as a theoretical foundation for prospecting deep brine resources in the pediment alluvial fans of various playas, both now and in the future.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":19644,"journal":{"name":"Ore Geology Reviews","volume":"188 ","pages":"Article 107098"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145925465","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"地球科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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