Application of Dense Gravity Survey for Polymetallic Deposit Exploration in Northeastern Zhejiang, China
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: High-precision gravity surveys are effective in detecting concealed geological structures and mineral deposits with density contrasts. In this study, 754 dense gravity measurements (average accuracy: 0.0043 mGal, or 4.3 × 10−8 m/s2) were deployed in Dingzhai Township, northeastern Zhejiang, China, to investigate concealed ore bodies and structural controls on mineralization. Using the mean-field method for source-field separation of Bouguer anomalies, combined with density inversion and edge detection, we delineated subsurface density distributions and fault systems. A newly identified “tongue-shaped” high-density anomaly near Xiashadi is interpreted as resulting from local upward intrusion of intermediate-acid porphyry from the Chencai Group basement, indicating significant exploration potential. Beneath Quaternary cover, a previously unrecognized east–west-trending concealed fault was detected, which may have controlled the structural evolution of mineralization at the Daqi’ao Ag deposit and Miaowan Cu deposit. Gravity profile inversion reveals a deep high-density anomaly beneath Xie’ao–Xi’ao’an, possibly representing the deep extension of the Hengtang Cu–Mo deposit. Low-density anomalies near Chenxi and Dongli villages are attributed to Early Cretaceous low-density intrusions (e.g., monzogranite) and multi-phase volcanism in the Shangshawan caldera. This work provides robust geophysical constraints for deep mineral exploration and advance understanding of the metallogenic tectonic evolution in northeastern Zhejiang.
Source: Minerals
DOI: 10.3390/min16010030
Authors: Xian Ma, Xiaodong Chen, Zhida Chen, Ying Zhang, Jie Li, Guofang Luo, Lelin Xing, Xiaowei Niu, Peng Sang, Lei Bai, Ming Liu, Zheng Chen
Language: English
Subfield: Geophysics
Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,896
OpenAlex ID: W7117455468