Cooperative Exploration Model of Coal–Gallium Deposit: A Case Study of the Heidaigou Coal–Gallium Deposit in the Jungar Coalfield, Inner Mongolia, China

Abstract

Gallium (Ga) is a typical scattered trace element that is irreplaceable in strategic sectors such as national defense, wireless communications, new materials, renewable energy, and healthcare. The coal–Ga deposit is an important complement to traditional Ga resources and has become a significant focus for Ga mineral resource exploration. Therefore, there is an urgent need to research the coal–Ga cooperative exploration model from both technical and economic perspectives. Taking the Heidaigou coal–Ga deposit as an example, the enrichment zone of coal–Ga is predominantly situated in the northern part of the exploration area, adjacent to the fault zone. The Ga concentration demonstrates a gradual decline from the north–central region towards the northeast and southeast. Similar vertical Ga distribution patterns are observed in adjacent drillings, with notably higher concentrations in the roof, floor, and parting layers. The cooperative exploration model for coal–Ga deposits is proposed based on the above features. The model employs a comprehensive set of cooperative technical methods, such as remote sensing, geological mapping, seismic exploration, drilling, petrogeochemistry, and well logging. The layout of exploration engineering and the concentration of Ga provide the basis for the estimation of Ga resources. Additionally, the model provides an important scientific basis for the improvement of the strategic coordination ability of Ga mineral resources.