Plate convergence, orogenic uplift, and tectonic preconditioning for giant porphyry copper formation in the central Andes

The central Andes is the world's highest altitude cordilleran mountain belt and contains nearly half the world's reserves of copper - a critical mineral for global clean energy technologies. While previous studies have debated the relative importance of deep-seated structural corridors, plate motion, and cordilleran development in the formation of porphyry copper deposits and the Andes, a formal, data-driven approach that assesses these relationships has not been undertaken. To address this gap, we conduct time-series and statistical analysis of published orogenic proxies in the central Andes and compare them to different plate convergence models. We identify both linear and causal tectonic processes that are occur prior to and simultaneously with the formation of these deposits. By identifying the most suitable plate motion models, we provide a novel perspective into the complex interplay between plate motion, orogenic uplift, and porphyry Cu mineralisation in the central Andes. Our data-driven results advance our understanding of how plate convergence and orogenic processes in the central Andes interact and provide insight into tectonic preconditioning processes that are required for the formation of giant porphyry copper ore deposits.