Application of High-Power Induced Polarization in Metal Ore Exploration

Concept

High-power induced polarization (IP) is a geophysical method widely used in metal ore exploration. It involves the application of high electrical currents to the ground, which induces polarization effects in the subsurface materials. By measuring the resulting voltage response, valuable information about the presence and characteristics of metal ore deposits can be obtained.

In metal ore exploration, the primary objective is to identify and delineate areas with high concentrations of economically valuable minerals. High-power IP surveys provide insights into the subsurface's electrical properties, including resistivity and chargeability. These properties are directly related to the presence of metallic minerals.

Working Method

A 1:10,000 induced electrical measurement was conducted in the mining area, combining the results of geological mapping. Based on the prioritized sections, induced electrical depth measurements were implemented to explore and evaluate the morphology, attitude, and depth extension of altered mineralization. This provided a reliable basis for drilling layout.

The induced electrical measurements were carried out using the WDFZ induced polarization instrument manufactured by Chongqing GOLD Electromechanical Equipment Co., Ltd. The instrument operated with a power supply cycle of 32 seconds and a duty cycle of 1:1, utilizing a bidirectional short-pulse format. The relevant parameters were set as follows: power-off delay of 100 milliseconds, sampling width of 40 milliseconds, and a measurement stacking of 2 times.

Equipment Used

• WDFZ Multi-Channel High Power Intelligent

Result

The high-power induced polarization anomalies observed in this study exhibit a high degree of correlation with the mineralized bodies revealed through drilling, indicating the effectiveness of induced polarization method in locating copper-silver polymetallic mineralization in this area. It can be utilized to guide the exploration of concealed copper-silver polymetallic mineral deposits in this region.

• The induced polarization anomaly delineated through the induced electrical measurement corresponds well with the surface alteration mineralization zone. The induced electrical depth measurement inferred the deep extension of the anomalous geological body, providing indirect evidence for mineral exploration in the corresponding section. The prospect for mineralization in this area is promising, and further engineering verification should be strengthened.

• The induced polarization method can serve as a valuable basis for sulfide-bearing copper-silver polymetallic mineral exploration in similar mining areas. It effectively narrows down the target areas for exploration and partially resolves the challenges associated with thick surface cover and difficult mineral prospecting.