Earth Science Frontiers ›› 2025, Vol. 32 ›› Issue (2): 371-389.DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.sf.2023.11.65

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Discussion on ore-controlling roles of structural system in hydrothermal metallogenic system

HAN Runsheng1,2,*(), LIU Fei1,2,*(), ZHANG Yan1,2   

  1. 1. Faculty of Land Resources Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650093, China
    2. Southwest of Geological Survey, Geological Survey Center for Non-ferrous Mineral Resources, Kunming 650093, China
  • Received:2023-09-27 Revised:2023-11-14 Online:2025-03-25 Published:2025-03-25

Abstract:

The structural system is the cornerstone of the geomechanics theory and methodology established by Prof. Li Siguang (J. S. Lee). This study begins with an exploration of the fundamental concept of the structural system, delving into its connotations to further develop and apply geomechanics theory and methodology based on the various interpretations and applications of the structural system in relevant literature, which provides a foundation for understanding the principles of crustal structure and movement, investigating the relationship between structure, diagenesis, and mineralization (reservoir formation), and guiding the exploration and evaluation of mineral resources.The study discusses the mechanical mechanisms of structural systems formed under the influence of principal compressive stress and the continuous effects of couples. Structural systems exhibit characteristics such as uniformity, regionality, hierarchy, inheritance, and complexity. It is proposed that structural types are hierarchical, while ore-forming structural systems possess distinct features, including consistency, periodicity, differentiation, diversity, and transformation. The ore-controlling rules of ore-forming structural systems are summarized and revealed. By examining the genetic relationship between ore-forming structural systems (ore-controlling structural types) and metallogenic systems, this study identifies key factors such as the regular distribution of ore-concentrated areas, ore fields, and ore deposits; the contemporaneity of structural deformation, magmatic activity, and mineralization; and the compositional consistency between ore-bearing structures and ores. These factors are used to define ore-forming structural systems and propose a research methodology for their study. This methodology provides a framework for prospecting predictions and deep exploration of ore deposits and ore bodies. To illustrate the ore-controlling roles and significance of ore-forming structural systems, this study examines two examples: the non-magmatic hydrothermal polymetallic metallogenic system (e.g., lead-zinc polymetallic deposits in the Sichuan-Yunnan-Guizhou metallogenic area) and the magmatic hydrothermal polymetallic metallogenic system (e.g., copper-tin polymetallic deposits in the Huangshaping-Baoshan ore field in southern Hunan).

Key words: ore-forming structural system, ore-controlling structural type, ore-controlling processes, orefield geomechanics, hydrothermal metallogenic system

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