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Advances in Magnetic and Electromagnetic Techniques for Mineral Exploration: Enhancing...
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Advances in Magnetic and Electromagnetic Techniques for Mineral Exploration: Enhancing Resource Discovery

A special issue of Minerals (ISSN 2075-163X). This special issue belongs to the section "Mineral Exploration Methods and Applications".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 March 2025 | Viewed by 5214

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Marc A. Vallée

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Geo Data Solutions GDS Inc., Laval, QC, Canada
Interests: exploration geophysics; electromagnetic and potential field methods; geology
Prof. Dr. Stanisław Mazur

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Institute of Geological Sciences, Polish Academy of Sciences, 31-002 Kraków, Poland
Interests: tectonics; exploration geophysics; structural geology; minerals; basin analysis

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Magnetic and electromagnetic methods are popular among the geophysical methods for mineral exploration. Their application has evolved with technological advance and computer science revolution. In recent years, various developments have occurred on the technology side including miniaturizing sensors, increasing system reliability, and introducing computer-controlled transmitter, receiver, and data acquisition. Electromagnetic airborne surveys are today mainly conducted from helicopters, while there are still attempts to combine ground and airborne surveys. Drones are becoming popular, particularly for magnetic surveys. Three-dimensional inversion is almost systematically carried out for magnetic surveys, while two-dimensional filtering techniques are still used to analyze aeromagnetic data. However, 3D technology has not been used as intensively for electromagnetic interpretation since 1D inversion is still popular. Recent developments have been inspired by machine learning techniques and a better understanding of the physical properties of the targets. This Special Issue is an opportunity to valorize recent developments that can increase the resource discovery of mineral, either with technological advances, interpretation methods, or physical properties. This is open to borehole, ground, and airborne magnetic and electromagnetic methods, as well as case histories.

Dr. Marc A. Vallée
Prof. Dr. Stanisław Mazur
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Minerals is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • magnetic methods and electromagnetic methods
  • data acquisition
  • geophysical modeling and inversion
  • borehole, ground, and airborne geophysics
  • magneto-telluric
  • mineral exploration
  • case histories
  • physical properties

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

14 pages, 5051 KiB  
Article
Exploration of the Subsurface Three-Dimensional Structure in Rare Earth Ore Areas Using Electrical Resistivity Tomography: A Case Study in Changting, Fujian, China
by Yingchun Tang, Ping Liu, Shujing Jia, Yang Yang, Yajun Mo and Jie Zhu
Minerals 2024, 14(11), 1164; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14111164 - 17 Nov 2024
Viewed by 340
Abstract
The development of fracture zones (broken zones) and underground karst rivers in underlying granite can significantly reduce the recovery rate of ion-adsorption-type rare earth ores. Additionally, leaching solutions flowing along unfavorable geological formations can lead to environmental pollution. Therefore, investigating the development of [...] Read more.
The development of fracture zones (broken zones) and underground karst rivers in underlying granite can significantly reduce the recovery rate of ion-adsorption-type rare earth ores. Additionally, leaching solutions flowing along unfavorable geological formations can lead to environmental pollution. Therefore, investigating the development of fracture zones (leakage channels) in granite basements is of great significance. In Changting, Fujian, China, several methods have been used in exploration areas (C1 and C2) to study the characteristics of rare ores. This study has focused on the stratigraphic and structural characteristics of the C2 exploration area. Twelve exploration profiles were designed to collect data using electrical resistivity tomography, and a deep electrical structure model of the study area was obtained through inverse calculations. The results indicated that the exploration profiles effectively delineated the thickness of the weathered granite layer and the spatial distribution characteristics of the deep-seated fault structures, which were consistent with the drilling results within the study area. These findings provide important reference materials for the assessment of ion-adsorption-type rare earth ore reserves, blocking leakage channels, and the layout of recovery tunnels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Magnetic and Electromagnetic Techniques for Mineral Exploration: Enhancing Resource Discovery)
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15 pages, 9366 KiB  
Article
Study of the Genesis Process and Deep Prospecting Breakthrough in the Gouli Ore Concentration of the East Kunlun Metallogenic Belt Using Audio Magnetotelluric Data
by Ji’en Dong, Peng Wang, Hua Li, Huiqing Zhang, Mingfu Zhao, Haikui Tong, Xiaoliang Yu, Jie Li and Binshun Zhang
Minerals 2024, 14(9), 930; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14090930 - 12 Sep 2024
Viewed by 458
Abstract
The East Kunlun Orogenic Belt is an essential part of the Qin-Qikun composite orogenic system, the most crucial orogenic belt in Qinghai Province, and an important gold ore-producing area in China. The Gouli gold field in its eastern section is one of the [...] Read more.
The East Kunlun Orogenic Belt is an essential part of the Qin-Qikun composite orogenic system, the most crucial orogenic belt in Qinghai Province, and an important gold ore-producing area in China. The Gouli gold field in its eastern section is one of the most important gold fields discovered in the belt in recent years. The Mailong mining area is an important gold mining area in the Gouli ore-concentrated area. The area has experienced frequent and intense magmatic activity, with intrusive rock bodies extensively exposed and intersected by a complex network of fault structures, providing excellent geological conditions for the formation of gold deposits. However, it is difficult to explore due to high altitude, poor transportation, and shallow coverage. This study used an audio magnetotelluric sounding method to track the deep direction and inclination of known mineral belts in the Mailong mining area, and identified mineral exploration targets, providing a basis for mineral exploration. Subsequently, a gold ore body was discovered through drilling verification, achieving a breakthrough in deep mineral exploration. The electromagnetic exploration method works well for exploring structurally altered rock-type gold deposits in plateau desert areas, and combined with the results of this electromagnetic exploration, a metallogenic geological model and genesis process of the Mailong mining area has been constructed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Magnetic and Electromagnetic Techniques for Mineral Exploration: Enhancing Resource Discovery)
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21 pages, 5593 KiB  
Article
Moment Estimation from Time Domain Electromagnetic Data
by Marc A. Vallée and Mouhamed Moussaoui
Minerals 2024, 14(9), 888; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14090888 - 30 Aug 2024
Viewed by 753
Abstract
Moment representations have been proposed to facilitate the interpretation of geophysical time domain electromagnetic responses. We present a new methodology for estimating these moments from field data for different system waveforms when on-time and off-time measurements are available. Quadrature impulse response moments are [...] Read more.
Moment representations have been proposed to facilitate the interpretation of geophysical time domain electromagnetic responses. We present a new methodology for estimating these moments from field data for different system waveforms when on-time and off-time measurements are available. Quadrature impulse response moments are estimated by a recursive relation involving moments of the input waveform and moments of the observed response. After adapting this method to time domain electromagnetic applications—in particular, MEGATEM and AeroTEM (AirTEM) airborne electromagnetic systems—we present the results from applying this method on synthetic and real data collected over the Reid–Mahaffy test site in northern Ontario, Canada. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Magnetic and Electromagnetic Techniques for Mineral Exploration: Enhancing Resource Discovery)
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21 pages, 12899 KiB  
Article
Location Prediction Study of Fluorite Ore in Shallow Cover Area: Evidence from Integrated Geophysical Surveys
by Liu Cheng, Li Han, Yang Kai, Gao Yongbao, Tang Weidong and Yao Chuan
Minerals 2024, 14(8), 838; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14080838 - 19 Aug 2024
Viewed by 576
Abstract
The Beishan region is a vital fluorite metallogenic belt in northwest China, characterized by favorable geological conditions for fluorite mineralization. However, being located in the Gobi Desert and affected by shallow cover layers, only a few outcrops can be observed on the surface. [...] Read more.
The Beishan region is a vital fluorite metallogenic belt in northwest China, characterized by favorable geological conditions for fluorite mineralization. However, being located in the Gobi Desert and affected by shallow cover layers, only a few outcrops can be observed on the surface. Therefore, comprehensive geophysical research is necessary to locate and predict regional metallogenic potential and the spatial distribution of veins beneath the cover. This study conducted a combination of ground magnetic method (GM), induced polarization (IP) surveys, portable gamma-ray (PGR), portable X-ray fluorescence analyses (PXRF), and audio Magnetotelluric (AMT) to conduct comprehensive exploration. The IP and GM effectively identified concealed ore-bearing space distributions and ground PGR- and PXRF-constrained mineralization anomalies, while AMT surveys constructed deep electrical structure models for ore deposits. This approach delineated concealed fluorite deposit locations as well as potential magmatic–hydrothermal migration pathways. Engineering verification confirmed the effectiveness of this method combination. This study established a comprehensive geological–geophysical positioning prediction technique that can serve as a reference for locating and predicting fluorite deposits in shallow-covered areas within the Gobi Desert. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Magnetic and Electromagnetic Techniques for Mineral Exploration: Enhancing Resource Discovery)
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14 pages, 5127 KiB  
Article
Deep Geological Structure Analysis of the Dongyang Area, Fujian, China: Insights from Integrated Gravity and Magnetic Data
by Zhenyu Zhang, Yongbo Li, Liang Chen, Qiang Zhang and Yue Sun
Minerals 2024, 14(8), 837; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14080837 - 19 Aug 2024
Viewed by 506
Abstract
To explore the deep geological structure of the Dongyang area in Fujian, China, gravity data from the area and its surroundings were collected and processed. Additionally, a high-precision magnetic survey was conducted in the Zhongxian region of this area, with subsequent analysis of [...] Read more.
To explore the deep geological structure of the Dongyang area in Fujian, China, gravity data from the area and its surroundings were collected and processed. Additionally, a high-precision magnetic survey was conducted in the Zhongxian region of this area, with subsequent analysis of the magnetic anomalies. Through the integration of regional geological data, a comprehensive analysis was carried out on the characteristics of gravity–magnetic anomalies and deep geological structures in the Dongyang area. The study indicates that the primary portion of the Dongyang area lies southwest of the expansive circular volcanic structure spanning Dehua to Yongtai. Two significant residual gravity anomalies were identified within the region, interpreted as the Xiaoban-Shuangqishan and Dongyang-Lingtouping residual gravity-positive anomalies. In the Zhongxian region, the magnetic field exhibits complexity with notable amplitude variations. Positive anomalies predominate in the western and northern sectors, while localized positive anomalies are prominent in the eastern region. The central area portrays a circular and disordered mix of positive and negative anomalies. Particularly distinctive are the band-shaped and fan-shaped negative anomalies curving from northeast to southeast through the central region. Various positive and negative anomalies of varying strengths, gradients, and orientations overlay both positive and negative magnetic backgrounds in specific locales. Moreover, the Dongyang area showcases well-developed fault structures, primarily oriented in northeast and northwest directions. Leveraging the regional magnetic attributes in conjunction with regional geological data, 39 faults were deduced in the Zhongxian region of the Dongyang area, delineating three promising mineralization zones. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Magnetic and Electromagnetic Techniques for Mineral Exploration: Enhancing Resource Discovery)
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16 pages, 17436 KiB  
Article
Airborne Natural Total Field Broadband Electromagnetics—Configurations, Capabilities, and Advantages
by Alexander Prikhodko, Andrei Bagrianski and Petr Kuzmin
Minerals 2024, 14(7), 704; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14070704 - 11 Jul 2024
Viewed by 976
Abstract
The airborne electromagnetic system MobileMT exploits natural fields in a broadband frequency range with offset measurements of magnetic and electric field variations. It was introduced in 2018 and has since been developed in various configurations, each tailored to meet the demands of different [...] Read more.
The airborne electromagnetic system MobileMT exploits natural fields in a broadband frequency range with offset measurements of magnetic and electric field variations. It was introduced in 2018 and has since been developed in various configurations, each tailored to meet the demands of different exploration tasks, varied terrains, and geoelectrical conditions and support time-domain data with controlled primary field sources. There are four distinct airborne systems: the original MobileMT; the lighter configuration, MobileMTm; the configuration for a drone carrier, MobileMTd; and the innovative time-domain AFMAG hybrid, TargetEM. The paper describes the technical features of each system, their differences and inherent strengths, the optimal usage conditions, and insights into their applications under different conditions across various exploration tasks. Several field case studies are provided to support the natural field electromagnetics capabilities of recovering geological structures in a wide depth range, beginning from the near surface, and address the impact of parasitic IP effects on time-domain data. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Magnetic and Electromagnetic Techniques for Mineral Exploration: Enhancing Resource Discovery)
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16 pages, 7506 KiB  
Article
Application of Integrated Geological and Geophysical Surveys on the Exploration of Chalcedony Deposits: A Case Study on Nanhong Agate in Liangshan, China
by Shengping Gong, Keqiang Zhao, Mingming Wang, Shengwu Yan, Yong Li and Jianzhou Yang
Minerals 2024, 14(7), 677; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14070677 - 28 Jun 2024
Viewed by 836
Abstract
Nanhong agate, esteemed for its vivid color and natural shine, is experiencing a scarcity in supply despite its high demand. The primary deposits of agate, typically found near the surface, have not been extensively explored due to the predominance of traditional manual excavation [...] Read more.
Nanhong agate, esteemed for its vivid color and natural shine, is experiencing a scarcity in supply despite its high demand. The primary deposits of agate, typically found near the surface, have not been extensively explored due to the predominance of traditional manual excavation methods. This research examined the Nanhong agate deposits in the Zhaojue–Meigu region of Liangshan, China, employing the integration of geological and geophysical surveys. Field geological surveys allowed us to outline the general areas where agate is found. Following this, using magnetic surveys, vertical electrical sounding, and controlled-source audio magnetotellurics, agate deposits were located within the conglomerate layer of the second member of the Feixianguan Formation from the Lower Triassic period at depths of less than 100 m. Our results identify mineralized layers, Xuanwei Formation mudstone, and the underlying bedrock, thus supporting the creation of a mineral prediction map. This research provides essential insights and guidance for agate exploration and the development of associated mineral resources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Magnetic and Electromagnetic Techniques for Mineral Exploration: Enhancing Resource Discovery)
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