Predictive Cu porphyry potential mapping using fuzzy modelling in Ahar–Arasbaran zone, Iran

• Main Authors: Kaveh Pazand, Ardeshir Hezarkhani
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Taylor & Francis Group 2018-10-01
• Series: Geology, Ecology, and Landscapes
• Subjects: Mineral potential mapping; fuzzy sets; fuzzy logic; Cu porphyry; Ahar–Arasbaran
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/24749508.2018.1438741

Fuzzy set theory was successfully used to map areas of copper porphyry mineralization potential in the Ahar–Arasbaran district of Iran. Proximity to geological features is translated into fuzzy membership functions based upon qualitative and quantitative knowledge of spatial associations between known Cu porphyry occurrences and geological features in the area. Fuzzy sets of favourable lithology, geochemical anomaly, geophysical anomaly, structural feature, and alterations are combined using fuzzy logic as the inference engine. The fuzzy predictive maps delineate 84% of the known Cu porphyry occurrences. The results demonstrate the usefulness of a geologically constrained fuzzy set approach to map mineral potential and to redirect surficial exploration work in the search for yet undiscovered Cu porphyry mineralization in the mining district. The method described is applicable to other mining districts elsewhere.