Oblique distribution patterns and the underlying mechanical model of orebody groups controlled by structures at different scales

Abstract The oblique distribution of orebodies is a basic feature of the spatial distribution of orebody groups in hydrothermal deposits, and it is closely related to the shearing effect. However, the oblique distribution patterns of orebody groups controlled by ore-controlling/ore-forming structures at different scales (orebody, ore deposit and ore field scales) and the underlying formation mechanism are unclear but could be used to directly constrain mineral exploration and prospecting breakthroughs in the deep and peripheral areas of ore deposits. This paper uses the northeastern Yunnan Ge-rich Pb–Zn ore concentration area in the Sichuan–Yunnan–Guizhou metallogenic area as an example to analyse and demonstrate the oblique distribution patterns of orebodies (orebody groups) controlled by ore-forming/ore-controlling structures at different scales and the underlying mechanical model based on the Theory and Methods of Ore field Geomechanics. The results indicate that in 3D space, the oblique distributions of orebodies (veins), orebody groups and ore deposits are controlled by the mechanical properties, kinematic characteristics, and tectonic stress fields of ore-forming/ore-controlling fault structures of different sequences during the mineralization period. This study has an important guiding role for ore field-scale exploration deployment, evaluation of deep and peripheral prospecting, and exploration project arrangement, with the aim of helping mining companies increase resource reserves and production.