Three-dimensional subsurface modeling of mineralization: a case study from the Handeresi (Çanakkale, NW Turkey) Pb-Zn-Cu deposit

Authors: SİNAN AKISKA, İBRAHİM SÖNMEZ SAYILI, GÖKHAN DEMİRELA

Abstract: The main goal of 3D modeling studies in the mining sector is to address the complex geological, mineralogical, and structural factors in subsurface environments and detect the ore zone(s). In order to solve this complexity, use of quality data (e.g., a wide range of boreholes at regular intervals) is necessary. However, this situation is not always possible because of certain restrictions such as intensive vegetation, high slope areas, and some economic constraints. At the same time, with the development of computer technology, the unused and/or insufficiently considered data need to be gathered and reviewed. This assessment may lead to the detection of potential new zone(s) and/or could prevent unnecessary costs. In this study, the target area that was chosen had inadequate and unusable data, and we used the data as effectively as possible. The Handeresi area is located in the Biga Peninsula of northwestern Turkey. In this area, the Pb-Zn-Cu occurrences take place in carbonate levels of metamorphic rocks or at the fractures and cracks of other metamorphic rocks. The area is being explored actively now. In this study, using the borehole data, we attempted to model the subsurface of this area in 3D using commercial RockWorks2006® software. As a result, there were 3 ore zones that were seen intensively in this area. One of them indicates the area in which the adits are now operating. The others could be new potential zones.

Keywords: NW Anatolia, Biga Peninsula, inverse distance weighting, kriging, lead, zinc, copper, interpolation method

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