Objetivo
The proposal identifies a very important problem common to all SME mining companies exploring for low- to- medium tonnage vein- type mesothermal gold deposits; namely the difficulty in locating and evaluating high grade gold shoots, which critically determine the economic viability of these deposits. gold grades tend to be erratic and highly variable. though potential areas of gold mineralization at a regional scale can be identified using conventional exploration techniques, current metallogenic models do not provide the necessary vectors for locating discrete high grade zones. This increases investment risk and discourages exploration. The aim of the project is to develop a predictive capability for detecting and evaluating high- grade gold ore shoots using new, cost effective analytical and software technologies. Substantial evidence has been assembled which suggests that high- grade gold ores (or zones) are the result of remobilization and enrichment by later, lower temperature fluids. The technical goals of the project are to develop novel methods for identifying the presence of diagnostic 'fluid inclusion- mineral- microstructural' markers in diamond drill core that relate to this fluid overprinting. to provide practical exploration vectors, these markers will be integrated advanced geostatistical models which incorporate process information enabling 3D visualization of the deposit and better procedures for resource estimation and mine planning. Post- project exploitation of the RTD results by the SME mining company will commence immediately with respect to their EU deposits; progressively extending the exploration potential to other EU and eastern European countries. intended commercialization of the RDT products includes automation of the detection methodologies for use by non- specialists, 3D visualization software products and the development of knowledge- based exploration systems for gold deposits. Modifications are envisaged that will allow application to the medical, food, biological and nuclear industries. This will require a further 1- 2 year period for manufacture and marketing by the SME instrument and software companies.
Ámbito científico
Convocatoria de propuestas
Data not availableRégimen de financiación
CRS - Cooperative research contractsCoordinador
2 Dublin 2
Irlanda