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2018, Volume 25 Issue 3
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Metallogenic geological features, prediction models and resources potential of gold deposits in China. NIU Cuiyi,LIU Yang,ZHANG Dai 2018, 25(3): 1-12.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.2018.03.001 Abstract ( 269 )   PDF (4381KB) ( 1336 )    In order to evaluate gold resources potential and provide guidance for gold exploration, we analyzed spatialtemporal distribution and resources potential of gold deposits in China based on the survey data from the national resources potential assessment project. We summarized the metallogenic laws for gold deposits, followed gold exploration progress and proposed a deployment plan for gold prospecting. Gold deposits in China are mainly smallsized, but the proved reserves from mid to largesized gold deposits accounted for up to 80% of the national total. Gold deposits were primarily formed in the Mezoic, dominating in both deposit number and scale, followed by the Cezoic, late Paleozoic, midlate Proterozoic and early Paleozoic. Gold deposits aggregate spatially. According to their metallogenic geological setting, oreforming conditions and distribution pattern, and combining with their geophysical, geochemical characteristics and predicted resource capacity, the metallogenic zoning plan for gold deposits was revised and 57 metallogenic belts or areas were determined. The major gold metallogenic belts included the Jiaodong, XiaoqinlingFuniushan and West Qinling metallogenic belts, the YunnanGuizhouGuangxi metallogenic area, and the SongpanMotianling, YanLiao, East Qinling, lowermiddle reaches of Yangtz River, LijiangAilaoshan and JinanLiaodong metallogenic belts. We put forth a classification scheme to assess gold resources potential. Gold deposits were divided into 12 categories: hydrothermal type related to midintrudes, microfine disseminated, tectonically fracture altered rock, continental volcanic, hydrothermal type in epimetamorphic clasolite, porphyric, placer, skarn, graniticgreen stone, marine volcanic, weatheringcrust and conglomerate gold deposits. The first five were the principal types. Furthermore, we summarized the geological features of gold deposits and established prediction models for the major types. The gold resources potential was estimated to be 31126 tons. The predictive resources distributed less than 1000 meter deep, with 50% locating in the periphery or at depths of existing gold mines. Using the same classification criteria, we suggest that the hydrothermal type related to midintrudes, microfine disseminated, tectonically fracture altered rock and continental volcanic types are the primary prospecting types. And the Jiaodong, XiaoqinlingFuniushan, West Qinling metallogenic belts and the YunnanGuizhouGuangxi metallogenic area are still the important gold prospecting zones, where main exploration should be at the depths and peripheral of existing gold mines. Exploration breakthroughs in the East Kunlun, Bayankala, Gangdisi, BangonghuNujiang, LijiangAilaoshan gold metallogenic belts demonstrated that basic geological survey and research not only can provide theoretical and technological support for gold prospecting and exploration, but also benefit the gold exploration on the new frontier in western China. Related Articles | Metrics

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Prediction model and resource potential of copper in China. CUI Ning,CHEN Jianping,XIANG Jie 2018, 25(3): 13-30.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.2018.03.002 Abstract ( 201 )   PDF (12106KB) ( 881 )    Copper is an important nonferrous metalsoft, malleable, and ductile with very high thermal and electrical conductivity. Copper is also an important building material and component of various metal alloys. It is widely used as raw material in modern industry such as highspeed train and machine manufacturing. China is rich in copper resources, with 99.10 Mt identified copper reserves and an yearly increase of 3.92 Mt at the end of 2015. Guided by modern metallogenic geological theory of minerogenetic series, we performed comprehensive survey of copper prediction types of levelIII metallogenetic belts in China. We also completed copper resource potential assessment, utilizing geological prospecting information including geophysical, geochemical and remote sensing data, and GIS technology. Based on the metallogenetic findings, we identified 63 metallogenic belts, developed 9 copper prediction models and outlined 379 prediction areas. The total predicted copper resources were approximately 307.00 Mt to a maximum depth of 2000 m in 30 provinces. Of which, 59.52 Mt are in the Tibet Autonomous Region, representing nearly 28.5% of Chinas potential copper resource. In summary, Chinas rich copper resource has a wide and relatively concentrated distribution with distinctive spatiotemporal characteristicscontrolled spatially by the tectonic evolution while the main metallogenic epochs are the Mesozoic and Cenozoic. Among the nine copper prediction types, the porphyry and skarn types have a larger share of the copper reserves and are key prospecting types in the future. The predicting resources are concentrated in the northwest region and lowermiddle reaches of the Yangtze River with tremendous deep resources potential. Related Articles | Metrics

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Study on metallogenic characteristics and potential assessment of lead-zinc mineral resources in China. TANG Panke,WANG Chunyan,MEI Yousong,HAO Yujun,WU Bijuan,GUAN Youfei,DUAN Jianliang 2018, 25(3): 31-49.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.2018.03.003 Abstract ( 303 )   PDF (7144KB) ( 852 )   The rapid economic development in recent years has led to the increased demand for leadzinc mineral resources, putting huge pressure on Chinas leadzinc reserves. Therefore, a nationwide comprehensive assessment on the status of leadzinc geological survey and mineral prospecting is much needed to aid future resource management in areas of resource prediction, identification, deployment and rational utilization. Here, we performed comprehensive analyses on the metallogenic, geological and spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of leadzinc deposits in 29 provinces, using the classification scheme developed in the national key mineral resources potential assessment project. We divided the prediction types of leadzinc deposits into nine types according to traditional ore deposit model, namely the stratabound carbonate (MVT), carbonate to fine clastic rock (SEDEX), glutenite, sedimentaryreworked, continental volcanic, marine volcanic, magmatic hydrothermal, skarn and weathering crust types. We also analyzed the prediction types and metallogenic epoch of leadzinc deposits in key metallogenic belts, documented the regional prediction factors of main leadzinc deposits in each metallogenic belt, and established the main regional prediction models for leadzinc deposits. Incorporating tectofacies, metallogenic belts and forecasting area distribution maps of China, we identified 15 metallogenic provinces and 47 levelⅢ leadzinc metallogenic zones, where mineral resource potential evaluation and prediction were performed. Our work provided a framework for future leadzinc prospecting. Related Articles | Metrics

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Tungsten metallogenic geological features and mineral resources potential analyses in China. XIA Qinglin,WANG Xinqing,LIU Zhuangzhuang,LI Tongfei,FENG Lei 2018, 25(3): 50-58.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.2018.03.004 Abstract ( 608 )   PDF (2710KB) ( 857 )   Tungsten is one of traditional dominant mineral resources in China where a great deal of achievements have been made on tungsten metallogenic theories. However, the recent discovery of large tungsten deposits in Jiangxi, Yunnan and Xinjiang provinces poses new challenges to the traditional tungsten metallogenic theory, as it fails to explain the occurrences of these deposits. Therefore further studies on geological features, metallogenic pattern and resource potential of tungsten deposit are needed to provide theoretical guidance for future tungsten prospecting. Here, building on the tungsten resource potential prediction data from various provinces, we used mineral deposit model and comprehensive geological information prediction method to perform comprehensive database analyses with MapGIP platform. Based on the statistical analyses of 1538 tungsten mineral occurrences, the temporospatial distribution characteristics of tungsten deposits and orecontrol factors such as magmatites, structures and strata were summarized. Fifty six tungsten metallogenic belts were delineated according to tectonic units and locations of tungsten deposits and prospective areas. Prediction types of tungsten deposit were classified into quartz vein, skarn, porphyry, greisen, volcanic, sedimentmetamorphism, layered skarn and placer types, and prediction model for the main types was established. Finally, a total of 1357 minimum prospective areas were delineated nationwide, with a cumulative predicted WO3 resources of 29.73 million tons. According to the regional metallogenic characteristics, minimum prospective areas were merged into 461 levelⅡ prospective areas, and further combined into 118 levelⅢ prospective areas. Priority exploration targets were assigned to six levelⅢ prospective areas with better mineral potentials, including LusiLuanchuan area in Henan province, Baiganhu area in Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, XianghualingYaogangxian area in Hunan Province, YematanGanbahenao area in Gansu Province, PingbeishanBaxiannao and Dahutang areas in Jiangxi Province. Related Articles | Metrics

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Spatio-temporal distribution features and mineral resources potential assessment of tin deposits in China. XIA Qinglin,WANG Xinqing,CHANG Lihen,LIU Zhuangzhuang,GAN Xueting 2018, 25(3): 59-66.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.2018.03.005 Abstract ( 192 )   PDF (2667KB) ( 770 )   Tin is one of traditional dominant mineral resources in China. However in recent years, we are faced with shortage of potential tin mineral prospecting area and uncertainty in prospecting direction, thus further geological and metallogenic studies on tin resources potential are urgently needed to provide a reference point for future geological prospecting work. In this paper, using mineral deposit model and comprehensive geological information prediction method, we performed comprehensive analyses of tin resources prediction data from various provinces with MapGIS platform. Based on the statistical analysis of 893 tin mineral occurrences, the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of tin deposit and orecontrol factors such as magmatites, tectonics and strata were summarized. Forty four tin ore metallogenic belts were delineated according to tectonic units and locations of tin deposits and prospective areas. The prediction types of tin deposit were classified into quartz vein, cassiteritesulfide, skarn, greisen, Pegmatite, volcanic and placer types, and prediction model was established for the main types. In total, 1179 minimum prospective areas were delineated nationwide, with a cumulative predicted tin metal resources of 18.61 million tons. According to the regional metallogenic characteristics, minimum prospective areas were merged into 405 levelII prospective areas, which were further combined into 109 levelIII prospective areas. Five of the levelIII prospective areas, including XianghualingQianlishan and TashanDayishan areas in Hunan Province, Gejiu and BozhushanDulong areas in Yunnan Province and Huangganglian area in Inner Mongolia, were selected as the priority exploration areas. Our prediction results also showed that great resource potential still exists at 500 m depth, therefore, tin prospecting work should focus on both deep and shallow mineralization. Thus, tin exploration should not only pay attention to the periphery of old mines, but also to new territories in overlay areas and nontraditional resources type tin deposits. Related Articles | Metrics

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Geological characteristics and mineral prediction of Ni ore deposits in China. LOU Debo,SUN Yan,SHAN Chengdong,SUN Jia,XIAO Keyan 2018, 25(3): 67-81.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.2018.03.006 Abstract ( 216 )   PDF (8350KB) ( 692 )   The domestic Ni consumption in China is high while annual domestic Ni production remains insufficient to meet the demand of a growing market. To appraise the Ni mineral resource potential and to facilitate Ni mineral exploration and production, the Chinese Ministry of Land and Resources launched the National Mineral Resources Assessment Initiative during 20062013. Under this initiative, geological features and temporospatial distribution of different Ni prediction types were investigated, and key prediction factors involving geology, geophysics, geochemistry and remote sensing were incorporated to establish the prediction model, which can be used to aid mineral exploration. The findings demonstrated: (1) China has three types of nickel depositsthe magmatic, weathering crust and marine sedimentary types, of which the magmatic type account for 93% of total Ni resources; (2) 30 nickel metallogenic belts can be recognized, including 13 important ones concentrated in western China; (3) Key prediction factors vary between different deposit types, such that the maficultramafic complex, weathering crust above ultramafic rock and lower Cambrian black shale series are key prediction factors for the magmatic, weathering crust, and sedimentary Ni ore deposits, respectively; (4) 524 regions are identified as minimum Ni prediction areas, with additional 98 levelⅢ Ni prediction areas, including 35 with total resources above 10 thousand tons; and (5) The confirmed cumulative Ni reserves and predicted Ni resource amount to 13.45 and 28.20 million tons, respectively. Related Articles | Metrics

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Mineral prospectivity of bauxite resources in China. SUN Li,XIAO Keyan,LOU Debo 2018, 25(3): 82-94.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.2018.03.007 Abstract ( 227 )   PDF (6658KB) ( 789 )   Bauxite is the main source of aluminum and China ranks among highest in bauxite production and reserve in the world. In order to evaluate Chinas total bauxite resources and to make rational industrial policy, it is necessary to assess bauxite resource potential. Bauxite deposits in China can be classified into sedimentary, accumulative and lateritic types, of which sedimentary bauxite is the dominant one accounting for more than 80% of the total resource. The main ore forming epochs of sedimentary type are Carbonaceous and Permian while accumulative and lateritic types primarily occured in the Quaternary. The genesis of bauxite is closely related to carbonate or mafic basement and controlled by lithofacies paleogeography, paleoclimate, palaeogeomorphology and other factors. In this work, we delineated 18 metallogenic belts based on geological data, recognizing the Shanxi fault lift, southern margin of the North China Craton, and the southwest Guangxi, central south Guangxi and central Guizhou areas as the most important bauxite metallogenic belts. In addition, we analyzed prediction factors of 3 types of bauxite deposits and built prediction models for typical deposits. We assessed bauxite resources using ore deposit model combined with synthetic information prediction method, i.e., using information technology (especially GIS) to extract mineralization information and compile maps of prediction factors for quantitative prediction. We applied oreforming geological body volumetric method to estimate potential resources to the depth of 2000 m below surface. The results showed that the mineralization potential was still great up to 1000 m below surface and the identified resources to date accounts for only 35.6% of total bauxite resources. In addition to Henan, Guangxi, Shanxi and Guizhou provinces, Yunnan, Chongqing, Shandong, Shaanxi and Hebei provinces also have great aluminum mineralization potential. Our prediction results provided scientific evidence for future bauxite exploration. Related Articles | Metrics

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Metallogenic geological characteristics and mineral resource potential analysis of rare earth element resources in China. LI Tongfei,XIA Qinglin,WANG Xinqing,LIU Yue,CHANG Liheng,LENG Shuai 2018, 25(3): 95-106.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.2018.03.008 Abstract ( 492 )   PDF (2542KB) ( 1287 )   Rare earth element (REE) is a general term for the 17 elements including 15 lanthanide elements and Sc and Y. Because of its irreplaceable role in manufacturing, metallurgy and other industries, REE has earned the title of “industrial vitamin”. Deemed as one of superior strategic mineral resources, the share of China’s REE resource in the global reserves has declined sharply in recent decades due to over reliance on and exploitation of a few super large deposits. Therefore, it is urgent to conduct an indepth investigation on the geological characteristics, metallogenic regularity and resource potential evaluation of REEs in China. Since it is one of the REE rich countries in the world and possesses of complete REEs, a great deal of work has been done on REE metallogenic theory in China. Here, we carried out comprehensive analyses of REE metallogenic potential prediction of various provinces, using prediction model and comprehensive geological information prediction method with MapGIS platform. According to spatiotemporal distribution of REE deposits, and magmatite, tectonic and stratigraphic control factors, as well as tectonic units, we identified 17 rare earth metallogenic zones. We also screened typical ore deposits of different genesis and summarized their geological features and metallogenic types. Further, we established prediction models of REE deposits, such as sedimentary metamorphic, magmatic and ion adsorption of weathering crust types. A total of 930 minimum prospective areas were delineated nationally, amounting to approximately 327.00 million tons of cumulative forecast REE resources. According to the regional metallogenic characteristics of REE deposits, we classified the minimum prospective areas as levelII prospective areas, which were further merged into 133 levelIII prospective areas. In addition, the amount of REE resources was documented according to metallogenic belt, prediction depth, geological reliability and utilizability. We selected 6 levelIII priority prospective areas including YunkaiDashan and DasiXiaodong in Guangxi, Bayan Obo and Baerzhe in Inner Mongolia, MiaoyaJiangjiayan in Hubei and Mianning in Sichuan, based on metallogenic geological conditions favorable for mineral potential analysis. This work can provide guidance for further REE exploration. Related Articles | Metrics

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Prediction model and resource potential analysis of iron in China. YIN Jiangning,XIAO Keyan,LOU Debo 2018, 25(3): 107-117.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.2018.03.009 Abstract ( 189 )   PDF (7801KB) ( 633 )   This paper summarizes the Chinese iron ore resources based on the relevant data of the national mineral resources assessment project. By the end of 2013, China had 4406 iron mine districts and 88.2 billion tons (BT) of verifiable iron resources, including 76.8 BT of iron reserves. However, most of the identified iron resources are poor iron ore (total iron grade below 30% on average), rich iron ore (total iron grade above 50%) merely reached 1.033 BT and account for only 1.35% of the total iron resources. Seven hundred and twenty seven iron deposits held more than 10 million tons (MT) of identified iron resources in China. Among these deposits were 32 super large iron deposits (>500 MT), 121 large iron deposits (100500 MT), and 574 mediumsized iron ore (10100 MT). Six hundred and seventy eight iron mines met the standard of industrial usage, of which 27 were super large, 113 large and 538 mediumsized mines. Among the 49 hardtoutilize iron mines, 5 were super large, 8 large, and 36 mediumsized mines. By 2010, the total iron resource in China were estimated around 192.10 BT. According to resources statistics at different depth, 775 MT were above 500 m, 128 BT above 1000 m, and 1927 MT above 2000 m by estimation. According to industrial exploitable standard under current economic and technical conditions, China has 138.2 and 54.5 BT of exploitable and temporarily unexploitable iron ores, respectively. Six thousand and eighty one iron target areas were identified throughout China including 392 levelIII prediction areas, of which 46 held more than 1 BT, 118 between 100 MT to 1 BT, and 128 under 100 MT in total predicted resources. Based on the analysis of typical iron deposit and regional metallogenic research, combined with the prospecting marks from geophysical, geochemical and remote sensing anomalies, the essential prediction elements were extracted and the regional prediction model was constructed to guide regions iron exploration. According to Chinas iron ore resources potential and exploration status, the national iron mines are segregated into eight development and seven exploration bases. These bases are concentrated in eastern China, including Anben area of Liaoning Province, Jidong area of Hebei Province, Luzong area of Anhui Province, etc. The iron potential resources are relatively low in western China, but Panzhihua depost in Sichuan Province, Huimin deposit in Yunnan Province, and West Tianshan and West Kunlun Mountain areas in Xinjiang have proven to possess great potential. Related Articles | Metrics

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Characteristics and predicted potential of Mn resources in China. CONG Yuan,DONG Qingji,XIAO Keyan,CHEN Jianping,GAO Yongbao,YIN Jiangning 2018, 25(3): 118-137.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.2018.03.010 Abstract ( 299 )   PDF (15003KB) ( 1115 )   中国的锰矿资源丰富，截止到2016年，保有储量达15.5亿t，位居世界第六位。中国锰矿主要集中分布在南方的泛扬子古陆、北部的燕辽、西部的天山和祁连山等地区。中新元古代、早古生代（寒武纪、奥陶纪）、晚古生代—早中生代是中国锰矿形成的重要时代。在锰矿成矿规律研究的基础上，提出了如下方案：（1）以成矿作用作为一级分类要素，含矿岩系作为二级分类要素的8种成因类型划分方案；（2）根据锰资源潜力评价工作需要，将成因类型和工业类型相结合，以成矿作用和预测要素为一级要素，含矿岩系为二级要素的3种预测类型划分方案。其中，海相沉积型、风化壳型和古天然气渗漏沉积型锰矿是中国具有找矿潜力的主要锰矿床类型。基于此，将全国锰矿划分为11个Ⅲ级锰矿成矿带，对优选出的7个主要锰矿远景区的含锰层位、成矿特征、主攻类型、资源潜力进行了分析。最后，针对目前中国锰矿资源面临的问题，提出了下一步工作部署的建议和意见。 Related Articles | Metrics

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Geological characteristics and mineralization potential of chromite resource in China. ANG Yiheng,ZENG Le,DENG Fan,HU Jianzhong 2018, 25(3): 138-147.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.2018.03.011 Abstract ( 361 )   PDF (7191KB) ( 734 )   Chromite is one of the strategic minerals and in great shortage in China. The country relies on import to meet its resources need as the gap between chromite supply and demand widens yearly due to limited reserves and production capacity. Based on the systematic analyses of the distribution characteristics and metallogenic types of chromite minerals in China, we divided chromite metallogenic zones into 4 levelI domains, 11 levelII provinces and 20 levelIII belts. We also determined the forecasting parameters and established the prediction models: one for the intrusive body type ultrabasic rocks, and the other for the stratiformlike magmatic type chromite deposits. Using geological data—collected and tabulated for each province—and guided by GIS technology, we performed the delineation and optimization of the forecasting areas, and focused on the 3 selected levelIII chromite prediction areas for resource evaluation. By estimation, chromite reserves may reach 500 million tons in the forecasting areas. Our data showed that the national chromite resources are 7.21532 billion tons in total, with 1.56559 and 5.64973 billion tons in demonstrated and predicted resources, respectively. Integrating new and old resources assessment data, it is believed that great potential exists for resource exploration in areas such as Saertuo Sea in Xinjiang, Luobusa in Tibet, and Dadaoerji in Gansu Province. Related Articles | Metrics

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Metallogenetic and geological characterization and resources potential analysis of uranium resources in China. ZHU Pengfei,CAI Yuqi,GUO Qingyin,LIU Wusheng,LI Jianhong,ZHANG Minglin,QI Fucheng,ZHANG Zilong,JIA Licheng,XU Hao 2018, 25(3): 148-158.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.2018.03.012 Abstract ( 533 )   PDF (3731KB) ( 1151 )   Uranium is an important strategic and energy resource in China. Its resources potential was thoroughly investigated in the national mineral resources assessment project along with other 25 key minerals. During the 20062013 implementation period of the project, we documented the metallogenic pattern of uranium resources in China through geologic characterization of genetic and prediction types and temporospatial distribution of uranium deposits. Presently with the completion of uranium resources evaluation and integrating recent development in uranium exploration, we propose that the uranium deposits in China can be delineated into 29 uranium metallogenic belts and 20 uranium prospective areas. We also suggest that the deposits can be further divided into 4 classes, 9 types, 21 genetic subtypes and 50 prediction types. In this work, resource potentials of the 49 metallogenic belts and prospective area were assessed using the geological information integration method and deposit model, and each evaluation was subjected to a comprehensive statistical analysis. Our resource potential evaluation will aid China s uranium exploration and nuclear development in the future. Related Articles | Metrics

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Metallogenic and geological characteristics and resource potential of magnesite resources in China. SUN Penghui,LI Jingchao,XIAO Keyan,LIU Changchun 2018, 25(3): 159-171.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.2018.03.013 Abstract ( 231 )   PDF (3881KB) ( 523 )   The Ministry of Land and Resources in order to make out the nationwide important mineral resources, which provide the basis for mineral resources protection ability and exploration deployment decisions, to carry out the important mineral resources potential evaluation project. Magnesite is one of the 25 important minerals to be carried out. The implementation of this project is an important national condition survey of mineral resources in China. In this work, we investigated the regional metallogenic pattern of magnesite through geological, geophysical, geochemical, remote sensing and mineralogical researches to establish a typical mineral deposit prediction model and a regional prediction model. Metallogenic prospect and target areas were identified, and the metallogenic resource potential of each prospecting area was assessed by modern theoretical analyses of mineral resource prediction and evaluation and GIS technology. The amount of 2000meter subsurface shallow magnesite resources was estimated by means of geological volume and multivariate methods to provided a scientific basis for the rational planning and deployment of mineral exploration. Our study showed that the main metallogenic age of Chinese magnesite is Paleoproterozoic, and the metallogenic type is mainly sedimentary metamorphic type. A total of 36.42 million tons of magnesite resources were discovered largely in Liaoning, Shandong and Xinjiang provinces. In total, 129 minimum magnesite prediction areas were identified, with 2000meter shallow ore reserves amounted to 13.1 billion tons. Nationwide there are 11 typical magnesite ore deposit zones. Related Articles | Metrics

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Prediction model and resources potential analysis of fluorite deposits in China. WANG Jiping,ZHU Jingbin,LI Jing,SHANG Pengqiang,XIONG Xianxiao,GAO Yongzhang,ZHANG Hao,ZHANG Yang,QI Caiji,ZHU Yannong 2018, 25(3): 172-178.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.2018.03.014 Abstract ( 275 )   PDF (1511KB) ( 691 )    China has abundant fluorine mineral resources with its global top ranking in proved fluorite reserves. Previous researches have been mainly focused on the geological setting, material source, genesis and regional metallogeny of medium to large fluorite deposits, with some efforts in prospect zone delineation and resources potential assessment at the provincial level. To investigate the national fluorite resources and to form a scientific and rational economic policy, a nationwide comprehensive fluorite metallogenic survey and resource potential evaluation is urgently needed. Here, based on the survey data assembled under the national mineral resources potential assessment project (20062013), we analyzed deposit types, mineralogical characteristics and spatiotemporal features of fluorite deposits nationwide, and delineated several metallogenic belts. Following the evaluation of metallogenic elements and forecast factors of typical fluorite mines around the country, we proposed two prediction models for fluorite deposits: hydrothermal fluid filling and sedimentary reformation types. According to estimated resources of smallest prediction areas and amalgamated levelⅡ forecast areas of various provinces, we delineated 198 levelⅢ prediction areas and estimated the national fluorite resources. The results showed that China possesses abundant fluorite resources. By our estimation, it has about 9.5 hundred million tons of CaF2, of which 4.3 hundred million tons are in single fluorite ore deposit (mainly hydrothermal filling type) indicating a good prospecting potential. The prospective areas are mainly distributed in eastern China including the Siziwang Banner, northern Hebeiwestern Liaoning, southern Henan, southern Anhuiwestern Zhejiang, central Zhejiang and northern Fujianeastern Guangdong areas, where fluorite resources were predicted to be richer because of excellent oreforming condition with huge resource potential. Related Articles | Metrics

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Geological characteristics and resource potential analysis of sulfur deposits in China. CAO Ye,TANG Yao,YAO Meijuan,SHANG Pengqiang,ZOU Zhendong,QIU Guoyu,XIONG Xianxiao 2018, 25(3): 179-195.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.2018.03.015 Abstract ( 345 )   PDF (5924KB) ( 683 )   Sulphur is one of the most important basic raw materials in the chemical industry and a key component in fertilizer production. In China, pyrite is the main resource in sulfur exploration and utilization. During 20072013, the China Geological Survey implemented the National Mineral Resources Assessment Initiative, which achieved a milestone with the completion of the sulfur metallogenic pattern and prediction study and the construction of the sulfur resources database. Using provincial level sulfur resources data, we performed nationwide characterization of sulfur ore spatiotemporal distribution and classification of metallogenic zones and mineralization types, developed the prediction model of typical ore deposit and forecast area, and assembled the national sulfur ore resources potential evaluation according to classification. Overall, China has 1437 sulfur mineral localities including sulfur deposits, mineral occurrences and mineralization points, of which 1418 were pyrite and 19 were natural sulfur mineral deposits. The metallogenic epoch of sulfur deposits is the late ArcheanCenozoic era, in which the Proterozoic has the largest sulfur ore reserves. Overall, we identified 46 levelⅢ sulfur metallogenic zones and 17 ore concentration areas and classified 6 prediction types (sedimentary metamorphic, sedimentary (marine facies and coal pyrite), magmatic hydrothermal, marine volcanic rock, continental volcanic rock and natural sulfur types) and 17 deposit types. The number of forecast areas for the six prediction types were found to be 20, 58, 68, 12, 9, and 5, respectively, using our prediction factors and model. Moreover, 274 levelⅢ sulfur prediction areas were delineated cumulatively, which involved 268 pyrite and 6 natural sulfur deposits. In total, China has 24.135 billion and 567 million tons of pyrite ore and natural sulfur reserves, respectively, with 18.457 billion and 232 million tons, respectively, as predicted resources. According to the metallogenic and geological conditions, geological characteristics, ore quality, and reliability of reserve estimate, we selected 21 priority exploration targets that contain, by prediction, a total of 222.930 million and 5.058 billion tons of natural sulfur and pyrite ore, respectively. The selected areas all have favorable metallogenic condition with large prospecting potential and basic operational support. Prospecting priority will be given in the near future to the forecast areas with known bed depth at the deposit edge, and the promising forecast areas can serve as the survey base. Related Articles | Metrics

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Design and implementation of a information management system for the national mineral resources potential evaluation project. SONG Xianglong,LI Nan,XIAO Keyan,FAN Jianfu,CUI Ning 2018, 25(3): 196-203.  Abstract ( 188 )   PDF (5645KB) ( 382 )   The national mineral resources potential evaluation project (20062013), a most comprehensive mineral survey since the founding of the Peoples Republic of China, lasted eight years and produced massive (TB) data. How to manage this data depository efficiently and disseminate data widely to researchers has become a critical and difficult issue for data sharing services. Using data generated in the evaluation project and GIS technology, we analyzed key big data technologies such as geological big data storage management, metadatabased query retrieval, spatial data visualization and so on, and proposed a unified information management approach for managing and disseminating the massive, multisourced and heterogeneous geological data. By analyzing and sorting the results data, we built a meta database to store addresses of different types of data, completed the unified data management framework, and realized rapid data query. With the help of the powerful and mature Mapgis K9 function module and open source NASA World Wind 3D Earth engine, we carried out secondary development to set up a data management platform suitable for handling mineral resource potential evaluation results, providing technological support in data dissemination and improving service capability for data sharing. Related Articles | Metrics

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A brief review of the research on historical geology. WANG Xunlian 2018, 25(3): 204-214.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.yx.2017-10-3 Abstract ( 142 )   PDF (607KB) ( 583 )    Starting from the 21st century, Earth science has entered into the era of Earth system science, which in turn has gradually become an important guide for Earth science, exerting great influence on all branches of Earth sciences. In the present paper, the research content and task of historical geology are discussed in both traditional Earth science and Earth system science. The research on historical geology is divided into the following five stages: the enlightenment stage (before the end of the 18th century), the restricted historical geology (stratigraphy) stage (from the late 18th century to the 1870s), the recent historical geology stage (from the 1870s to the mid 20th century), the modern historical geology stage (from the mid to late 20th century), and contemporary historical geology stage (21st century onward). The course of historical geology development, globally and in China, are briefly reviewed stage by stage. This paper also presents the opinion that historical geology research in the 21st century should, firstly, attach great importance to the integration and overlap of different disciplinesnot only to the integration and overlap between historical geology and other branches of Earth sciences, but also to that between historical geology and other disciplines, including social sciences; secondly, pay more attention to the study of Earth sphere interactions, understanding and recognizing various geological phenomena as records and products of interactions among Earth spheres and among the Earth and other planets; and thirdly, focus on the study of global environmental changes in each geologic period, allowing historical geology research to facilitate a harmonious coexistence of manking and nature, and transform historical geology from merely an Earth science discipline to a crossdiscipline of Earth and social sciences. Related Articles | Metrics

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Geochemical characteristics and tectonic setting of Early Cretaceous volcanic rocks in Heihe area, Heilongjiang Province, China. SHAO Shuai,DENG Jinfu,LIU Cui,ZHAO Yuandong,DUAN Peixin,XU Fengming,DI Yongjun 2018, 25(3): 215-229.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.yx.2017-3-52 Abstract ( 178 )   PDF (9178KB) ( 403 )   The Mesozoic volcanic rocks are extensively developed in the Heihe area of Heilongjiang Province, but their geological dating, rock assemblage, petrogenesis and tectonic setting remain unclear. This paper focuses on the petrology and geochemistry of volcanic rocks in this area. Our study showed that the volcanic rocks formed in the Early Cretaceous. They comprise mainly of andesite, dacite and rhyolite, but also contain trachyte, latite, basaltic andesite, trachydacite, shoshonite and benmoreite. The rock assemblage therefore is of arcvolcanic rock assemblage. These rocks mostly belong to the subalkaline series with Na2O/K2O ratio>1.2 in general. The rock assemblage is metaluminousperaluminous in the A/CNKA/NK diagram. Other rock series of lesser quantity were also shown in the oxide phase diagrams: both calcalkaline (including low Fe calcalkaline (LFCA) ) and tholeiitic (TH) series in SiO2TFeO/MgO diagram, highK calcalkaline and mediumK calcalcaline series in SiO2K2O diagram, calcalkaline/alkacalcline and alkaline (CA+AC+A) series in  SiO2(Na2O+K2O-CaO) diagram, and experimental basaltic and magnesium andesitic melting ranges in SiO2MgO diagram. The rocks were enriched in LILE (K, La, Zr, Hf, Tb and Tm) and depleted in HFSE (Nb, Ta, Ti, Y and Yb). They were relatively enriched in LREEs and slightly depleted in HREEs with  weak negative Eu anomaly. Most of the rocks had high Sr and low Y contents, some displayed adakite characteristics. Overall, the geochemical characteristics were consistent with arc volcanic rocks and in accordance with the rock assemblage. Taking into account tectonic setting discrimination result, we propose that the volcanic rocks were formed in subducted oceanic zones, and the magma source areas were likely subducted oceanic crust, upper mantle wedge, and lower crust of Xingan Arc. Related Articles | Metrics

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Zircon geochronology and geochemistry of the Haer Bogetuoer TTG rock, Solonker zone, Inner Mongolia and their tectonic implications. XUE Jianping,LIU Meiyu,LI Gangzhu,ZHAO Guangming,WU Chunjiao,LI Chengyuan,LIU Yongxin，LIANG Yuesheng，LIAN Chenqin 2018, 25(3): 230-239.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.yx.2017-3-53 Abstract ( 137 )   PDF (3455KB) ( 333 )   The Solonker zone, Inner Mongolia is a key area in the evolution of the Central Asia Orogenic Belt (CAOB). It lies at the center of an ongoing debate on the PaleoAsian Ocean closure time and temporospatial relationship between the North China and Siberian Plates. It is therefore essential to study indepth the intermediaacid intrusive rock of this region. In this work, we carried out a systematic investigation on the petrology, chronology and geochemistry of the Haer Bogetuoer TTG rock. LAICPMS zircon UPb age dating 266.7±3.7 Ma indicated the TTG rock from Solonker was emplaced during the middle Permian. Geochemical analysis of major elements showed that the lithological series belonged to the highsodium calcalkali and metaluminous rock series. The overall content of rareearth elements (REEs) was low in the TTG rock, with light REEs slightly enriched without apparent Eu anomaly. Rock samples were enriched in large ionic lithophile elements including Rb, Ba, Th and U, and extremely depleted in high field strength elements such as Nb, Ta and Ti. These geochemical characteristics are similar to that of typical magmatite in an island arc setting. Integrating geological, tectonic, chronologic and geochemical characteristics of the TTG rock, we conclude that the TTG rock complex from Solonker formed in an island arc setting, and the subduction of the PaleoAsian Ocean plate beneath the North China plate continued during the middle Permain, implying the PaleoAsian Ocean did not close until the middle Permain. The Haer Bogetuoer TTG from the Solonker zone, Inner Mongolia serves as petrological record of ocean crust underthrusting. Our study provides new geological insight into the evolution of the Solonker suture zone and PaleoAsian Ocean tectonic domain. Related Articles | Metrics

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Tectonic patterns in the Sarekebayi apartpull basin and their orecontrolling regularities for the Sareke glutenitetype copper deposit in Xinjiang, China. FANG Weixuan,WANG Lei,GUO Yuqian,LI Tiancheng,JIA Runxing,LIU Zengren 2018, 25(3): 240-259.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.yx.2017-12-20 Abstract ( 114 )   PDF (11412KB) ( 230 )   The Sareke copper deposit, a largesize glutenitetype copper deposit, had been controlled by the Sarekebayi Mesozoic secondary basin in Xinjiang, China. However, tectonic patterns in this basin remain unclear. To uncover the nature of the tectonic pattern in the basin, it is useful to promote a new high level research on the regularities of mineralization and search for the blind orebody in the studied area. Here, based on the new mapping methods of tectonic lithofacies, the following discoveries were made on the tectonic patterns in the basin and their orecontrolling regularities for the Sareke copper deposit: (1) The MesoProterozoic Akesu Group Complex constituted the lower basetectonic layer attached to the semiin situ allochthonous system of the strata; whereas the Paleozoic strata had been the upper basetectonic layer attached to the in situ system of the strata. In the initial stage of the basin formation, the basin was first filled with coarse clastic rocks near the Lower Jurassic sedimentaryfault in the mountainfront, which later evolved into coalbearing clastic rocks and eventually formed the carbonaceous mudstone, dark siltstone and coal layers in the limnetic facies. The maximum lake flooding plane at the Bathonian stage of the Middle Jurassic main basin formation, however, contained deeplake, seiche and seismite facies of crystallized limestone, calcirudytemarl and argillaceous conglomerate, and syngenetic argillocalcareous breccia, respectively. It suggests that three groups of NEtrending synfaults might be the main controlling factor for the basinformation. The enclosure of this wilting intracontinental lakebasin was evidenced by the Lower Cretaceous clastic rocks with upcoarsening in the intracontinental facies. (2) The tectonic paleogeographical framework in the study area was surrounded by mountains on three sides and opened in the NWtrending. Tectonic inversion in the beginning of the Kuzigongsu Stage (the Callovian Stage) resulted in the mountain enclosed lakebasin. Consequently, the remnant of the intracontinental enclosed lakebasin supported the best tectonic paleogeographical framework, creating an oreformation environment for the Sareke glutenitetype copper deposit. The Sarekebayi basin was attached to the intracontinental enclosed lakebasin befallen the Southwest Tianshan orogenic belt, and its geodynamics may be of the Mesozoic apartpull sag type. (3) The internal tectonic patterns of the basin mainly consisted of a ruched multiple syncline, the NWtrending baseuplifted zone, paleotectonic lowlands, tectonic slopebreak, synsedimentary faults and drapefolds. These tectonic patterns and their association and subsequent deformation obviously controlled the ore type, i.e. the Sareketype, a glutenitetype, of the copper deposit. These strong reducing facies of the hydrocarbons metallogenic fluid might have been enclosed and trapped by the interlayer fault and fracture zone and lithofacieslithology above the covered baseuplifting zone in the basin. They might have caused the largescale mineralization and accumulation of mineralizing materials, through multiple coupling with lithofacieslithological development and strong geochemical lithological interaction with the copperbearing ironyoxide lithofacies (the amaranth copperbearing irony hybrid conglomerate). Related Articles | Metrics

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Mixing ratios of recharging water sources for the four largest spring groups in Jinan. XING Liting,ZHOU Juan,SONG Guangzeng,XING Xuerui 2018, 25(3): 260-272.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.2018.03.021 Abstract ( 140 )   PDF (3199KB) ( 339 )   Jinan, a city well known for its numerous springs, is now faced with spring dry out caused by human activities. In past years, the city has taken measures to protect the famous springs by limiting extraction from selfsupply wells, prohibiting extraction of centralized water supply sources, artificial recharging, etc., with no apparent success. In this paper, the mixing ratios of different recharging water sources were studies through spring level observation, tracer experiment, water quality test and analysis of karst development, complemented by mathematical modeling. The characteristics of changes of the spring level dynamics and electrical conductivity revealed that the source of recharge changes according to the season. Specifically, the springs were recharged mainly by the pipe flow from the southeast in wet seasons, and by the fissure flow from the southwest in dry seasons. The results show: in the discharging area of the karst water system, distinct correlation exists between the groundwater level and spring level dynamics; the groundwater level in Ordovician limestone correlates better with spring level than the karst water level in limestone of the Cambrian Zhangxia Formation; and artificial recharge in the Zhangxia Formation can not halt the declining trend in spring level. Based on 42 sets of data, our calculation shows that the contents of conventional ions in springs, such as Ca2+, Mg2+, Cl- and SO2-4, and total water hardness, lied between that of the karst waters of the Cambrian Zhangxia Formation and Ordovician. Moreover, in the flow of the four large spring groups, 11%32% came from the recharge of the Zhangxia Formation, 24%60% from the recharge of the Fengshan Formation and Ordovician, 5%10% from the Liyang Lake, 06% from the Xingji River, and 1%8% from the Yufu River. Artificial recharge in urban areas, therefore, would significantly influence the FiveDragon Pool. In conclusion, the northern karst developed heterogeneously; pipe flow coexisted with fissure flow as indicated by changes of spring level dynamics; and artificial recharge should be located in areas where Ordovician limestones are distributed. Related Articles | Metrics

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Numerical simulation of nitrogen transport in river-groundwater system in the Weihe River Basin. GAO Zhipeng,GUO Huaming,QU Jihong 2018, 25(3): 273-284.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.yx.2017-12-22 Abstract ( 161 )   PDF (5050KB) ( 312 )   The Weihe River is one of the most polluted rivers in Haihe River Basin, and the effect of pollution on nearby shallow groundwater has been a great concern for many years. However this key issue has not been studied quantitatively. To explore this issue, Hydrus2d numerical models were constructed to simulate transport and transformation of nitrogen in the riverunsaturated zone, while RT3D module in GMS software was used to simulate nitrogen transport in saturated aquifers. Concentrations of pollutants leached at the bottom of vadose zone were regarded as the upper boundary condition of solute transport model in saturated zone. A joint simulation of nitrogen transport in riverunsaturated zonesaturated aquifer network was performed for the first time, which successfully delineated the influence of the polluted river on shallow groundwater. The simulation results show that, due to adsorption, nitrification and denitrification, the thickness of the vadose zone increases from the upper reaches of the river to the lower reaches, causing a decrease of NH4N and increase of NO2N and NO3N concentration in the aquifer. As the infiltration time increases, NH4N, NO2N and NO3N concentrations in the saturated aquifers gradually increase and stabilize eventually. The pollutant enters the vadose zone vertically with the infiltration water, while horizontal migration is the main form of transport in the saturated aquifer. The pollution plume disperses in the direction of groundwater flow, extending its influence as far as 500 m away from the river. Related Articles | Metrics

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The interactions of P-S-Fe in sediment from the continental slope of northern South China Sea and their implication for the sulfatemethane transition zone. ZHANG Jie,LEI Huaiyan,YANG Ming,CHEN Yong,KONG Yuan,LU Yi 2018, 25(3): 285-293.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.yx.2018-2-2 Abstract ( 155 )   PDF (1222KB) ( 282 )   PCFA, PFeand four kinds of active Fe components in sediment core 9734 from the continental slope of the northern South China Sea gas hydrate potential zone, near Jiulong Methane Reef, were extracted and analyzed. The results showed that the sedimental PCFA is the dominant P ingredient at this location, with its content fluctuating downwards from the seabed from 0.34% to 3.24%. PFe content was found to be 01.38%, displaying several upanddown fluctuations. Similarly, Fepy and Fecarb contents fluctuated between 0.050.72% and 0.140.64%, with averages of 0.27% and 0.33%, respectively; both contents increased at the top of SMTZ, while Fepy content decreased sharply and Fecarb content increased slowly at the bottom of SMTZ. And Feox and Femag contents varied between 0.320.73% and 0.180.34%, with averages of 0.46% and 0.25%, respectively. The variation trends of Feox and Femag were similar. Combining with TS, AVS, SO2-4 and other indicators, our analysis showed that CO2-3, produced by two types of reductive reactions in core 9734, inhibited the formation of apatite core; and furthermore, SMTZ can be identified quickly from sharp increments of Feox and Femag contents and opposite variation trends of Fepy and Fecarb. Recurrent fluctuations of PCFA and PFe under SMI, as observed in this study, shall provide us with new ideas in studying paleoSMI and the range of effects from decomposition of methane hydrate. Related Articles | Metrics

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Age and tectonic setting of metaacid volcanic rocks from the North Liaohe Group in the Liaodong area: Paleoproterozoic intracontinental rift or active continental margin? BI Junhui,XING Dehe,GE Wenchun,YANG Hao,DONG Yu 2018, 25(3): 295-308.  DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.2018.03.024 Abstract ( 325 )   PDF (5522KB) ( 500 )   The Liaohe Group of Liaodong Peninsula, located in the northern segment of the JiaoLiaoJi Belt, is developed mainly of deformed sedimentary and volcanic successions and felsicmafic intrusions. In this study, we report a newly recognized metaacid volcanic rocks from the North Liaohe Group in the Helan area, on which we conducted a detailed petrological study through UPb zircon dating and wholerock geochemical and LuHf isotopic analyses to determine the rocks emplacement age, magma source and tectonic nature. Zircons from metaacid volcanic rocks were euhedralsubhedral in shape and displayed obvious oscillatory zoning, which indicate a magmatic origin, in accord with the Th/U ratios of 0.340.92 in the zircons. Zircon LAICPMS UPb ages show that the volcanic rocks were emplaced in the Paleoproterozoic 2153±11 Ma and comparable to the regional Paleoproterozoic Liaoji granitoids, suggesting the two rocks are from coeval magmatism. From geochemical analysis, high SiO2 contents (64.09%72.82%) and low Nb/Y ratios (0.240.42) indicate the rocks largely belong to the subalkalic volcanic rocks, and their high CaO, MgO and Fe2O3 contents are likely related to hydrothermal activities. LuHf isotopic analysis showed that REE patterns were rightleaned, and LREE/HREE, (La/Yb)N and δEu were 7.5711.13, 7.6011.53 and 0.140.22, respectively. Indeed, these rocks were relatively enriched in LILE (e.g., Rb, K), depleted in HFSE (e.g., Nb, Ta) and Ti and P, consistent with the geochemical characteristics of island arc magmatic rocks. In addition, insitu Hf isotopic analysis revealed that zircon εHf(t) values for metaacid volcanic rocks ranged between -12.00+6.88, with twostage Hf model ages (TDM2) varying from 3467 to 2310 Ma. These features suggest that the primary magma of metaacid volcanic rocks came from partial melting of a dominantly “old” MesoNeoarchaean crustal source possibly with significant addition of juvenile materials. Based on our overall analysis, together with previously reported data on igneous rocks and metamorphism, we propose that metaacid volcanic rocks from the North Liaohe Group were formed in an active continental margin setting presumably related to subduction of the paleooceanic plate beneath the south margin of the Longgang Block. Related Articles | Metrics