Dike distribution density: Method for quantitative mine targets prediction in the South Alatao Mountains area, NW China

Abstract

The correlation between dike density and regional‐scale mineralization indicates a fundamental criterion for ore‐forming process. Here, a novel dike distribution density method is formulated for evaluating this correlation and exploring mine targets quantitatively. Three parameters (dike density, dike orientation scatter degree and dike fractal dimension) are proposed to express the degree of irregularity and complexity of dike distribution patterns. This method is applied to the South Alatao Mountains area (China), where the dike swarms show regionally well‐developed density gradients and the mineral deposits are spatially associated with abundant dike swarms. On the basis of this quantitative dike distribution density method, 60% of the deposit targets are delineated in this area. This result indicates that the method is an effective quantification tool for prospecting mine targets. The dike distribution density method is applicable for areas where abundant regional‐scale dike swarms and mineralization occur. It should be considered as an effective and complimentary technique for the common mine prospectivity analysis.