A groundbreaking study led by Sareh Sadigh from the School of Mining Engineering at the University of Tehran is reshaping the landscape of mineral exploration in Iran’s Kerman belt. The research, published in the International Journal of Mining and Geo-Engineering, unveils a sophisticated approach to identifying potential sites for undiscovered porphyry copper deposits—a critical resource for various sectors, including construction.
The study introduces a Mineral Prospectivity Map (MPM), a powerful tool that employs a knowledge-driven index overlay technique to integrate multiple geospatial data layers. This innovative method combines geological, geophysical, hydrothermal alteration, and fault density data, revealing complex distribution patterns of geological features associated with mineral deposits. According to Sadigh, “The MPM not only highlights areas with known mineralization but also uncovers potential sites for future exploration, which is vital for sustainable resource management.”
The findings are promising: approximately 23% of the study area has been identified as highly prospective, with 77% of known porphyry copper occurrences located within this zone. The normalized density of 3.35 indicates a significant correlation between existing deposits and the identified prospective area. This correlation not only enhances the understanding of mineral distribution but also holds significant implications for the mining industry, particularly for construction projects that rely on copper.
With copper being a fundamental material in construction, from electrical wiring to plumbing, the implications of this research extend far beyond geology. The potential discovery of new copper deposits can lead to increased supply stability and reduced costs for construction companies, ultimately affecting project timelines and budgets. Sadigh emphasizes the broader impact of this research, stating, “By identifying new areas for exploration, we can help ensure that the construction sector has access to the materials it needs for growth and innovation.”
The MPM also highlights previously unexplored tracts, paving the way for quantitative assessments of undiscovered resources. This could significantly alter the dynamics of resource allocation and investment in the mining sector, providing a more strategic approach to mineral exploration.
As the construction industry continues to evolve, the insights gained from this study could serve as a catalyst for more sustainable and efficient resource management practices. By integrating advanced geospatial data techniques, the research not only contributes to the field of mining engineering but also aligns with the construction sector’s need for reliable and accessible materials.
For more information on this research, you can visit lead_author_affiliation. The findings are detailed in the International Journal of Mining and Geo-Engineering, which translates to the International Journal of Mining and Geo-Engineering, highlighting the intersection of science and industry in the quest for mineral resource sustainability.
