Ore-controlling factors as the basis for singling out the prospective areas within the Syrymbet rare-metal deposit, Northern Kazakhstan

Abstract

Purpose is prediction of the prospective areas within the Syrymbet deposit basing on the systematization and complementing of the ore-controlling factors of ore localization and predictive-prospecting criteria. Methods. The methodology of carrying out the research in terms of the indicated problem involves complex application of empiric, theoretical, and logical techniques of a general-purpose method of scientific knowledge. To model the ore bodies and distribution of ore content in them in the 3D format, the computer modelling (GIS-Micromine) methods were used; 2D modelling of a temperature field of the ore-bearing Syrymbet mass involved methods of mathematical modelling (Maple 10). The main conclusions were drawn by means of analysis and synthesis of the results obtained by the indicated methods. Findings.. The ore-controlling factors of the localization of rare metal ores were systematized and complemented by synthesizing the results of the analysis of 3D models of the deposit under consideration with the visualization of ore component contents within the ore bodies and their 2D sections in terms of the survey profiles where spatial distribution of tin content in the vertical section of this deposit was obtained. The factors were also updated by analyzing the thermodynamic conditions of the formation of ore stockworks where temperature conditions of the enclosing media in the area of ore formation were considered along with the intervals of the ore deposition temperatures. Originality. The results of scientific studies (computer and mathematical modelling) based on the empiric geological data helped solve not only the problems of ore formation theory but also the practical tasks concerning the improvement of methods for predicting the prospective areas within the deposit. Practical implications. The methodology of scientific study dealing with systematization of ore-controlling factors can be also used for other endogenous ore objects.