Geophysical exploration of tungsten-copper deposit using the wide-field electromagnetic method

The Zhuxi tungsten-copper (W-Cu) deposit is a large skarn-type deposit. The buried depth of the primary ore body exceeds 1000 m, and the occurrence of the primary ore-controlling structure is unknown, highlighting the need for deep exploration. In this study, a wide-field electromagnetic method (WFEM) was applied for deep W-Cu mine detection in the Zhuxi mining area. The relationships among the target body's electrical properties, density, magnetism, and lithology were established using physical property data and a drill-resistivity sounding curve. Combined with known geological data, a two-dimensional geological-geophysical section was drawn, and a three-dimensional geological prospecting model was established based on the inversion of a three-dimensional section slice map of the WFEM. The results show that the WFEM can reveal the distribution pattern of the primary ore-bearing structure and horizon in this area. In addition, hydrothermal alteration activity related to deeply buried rock masses can be obtained, providing a strong basis for the study of metallogenic regularity at a 500-3000 m depth in the Zhuxi mining area and the prognosis for further prospecting.