Plotting Multi-Element Geochemical Data in Three Dimensions to Aid in Predicting Ore Recovery and Mineral Exploration Targeting

摘要

Throughout the life of an exploration drill program, geochemical data is often collected but not reviewed, used in ore recovery prediction, or utilized when exploring for additional economical mineralization. This study takes multi-element geochemical data from an early-stage exploration project and plots the data in three dimensions. The purpose of this study is to identify correlations between ore recovery and trace elements, which could aid in vectoring for additional economical mineralization. In most base and precious metal ore systems, understanding and quantifying the ore recovery of the mineralization tends to be the biggest hurdle for the deposit.Vast enhancements in three-dimensional visualization software have been made over the past several decades, allowing professionals to revisit underexplored deposits. Three-dimensional software has been utilized in mine planning, ore control, and estimating reserves and resources, but it has not been used to its full potential in mineral exploration or geometallurgical estimations. This study highlights innovative methods of using classical mineralogical techniques to identify the classification of ore. It looks at analytical assay data to identify regions of similar geometallurgical properties and potential areas for unpredictable ore recovery. This is accomplished by looking for trace elements/minerals that could influence element extraction and localization of penalty elements. This information provides a better understanding of element correlations, an indication of potential fluid composition, and timing of mineralization precipitation or replacement. In conclusion, this study plots historical multi-element geochemical data in three dimensions to gain a greater understanding of potential ore recovery and areas of additional mineralization.