Application of the multi-attribute anomaly model for prospecting potential at depth: A case study of the Haiyu Au deposit in the Jiaodong Gold Province, China

Abstract

Exploration geochemistry has become an indispensable tool in the discovery of certain types of mineral deposit. The multi-attribute anomaly model, as a geochemical exploration tool for prospecting potential at depth, is widely applied to indicate the enrichment and depletion of multi-elements coexisting in certain types of deposits. In the Haiyu gold deposit, the system mass-transfer μ anomaly (μ > 0.15) represents the zones affected by element exchange and fluid migration during metallogenic processes. Values of ΔCNaO-A < −20 kg and μNa < −50% represent fluid activity zones, while ΔCSO–A > 1000 g and ΔCNaO-A < −20 kg suggest the existence of mineral sulfides. The correlations among S-FeO-Au indicate fertile rocks and barren rocks in different locations. The positive anomalies of pathfinder elements indicate the occurrence of numerous polymetallic sulfides and the enrichment of multi-elements coexisting in the Haiyu gold deposit. The deeper and larger multi-attribute anomalies in the No. 30 profile of the Haiyu Au deposit indicate that the prospecting potential at depth mainly focuses on the extension of the footwall along the NE-NNE Sanshandao-Cangshang Fault (F3). In summary, the Haiyu Au deposit has great prospecting potential for additional deep-seated orebodies.