Seismic imaging of the Caosiyao giant porphyry molybdenum deposit using ambient noise tomography

As a new emerging seismic method for delineating subsurface structure, the potential of ambient noise tomography is investigated for mineral deposit targeting at exploration scale. This passive seismic technique was used to image the subsurface 3-D shear-wave velocity of the Caosiyao porphyry molybdenum (Mo) deposit in the North China Craton. Intriguingly, the key structures of this giant porphyry mineral system down to the depth of 2 km are characterized by distinct shear-wave velocity anomalies, with ore deposition sites and fluid pathways (faults) characterized by distinct velocity lows, while fluid drivers (granites) generate velocity highs. The 3-D shear-wave velocity anomalies, along with seismic reflection profile and potential field data, allow us to delineate the deep-seated ore-controlling structures including fault systems, granitic plutons and even ore deposition sites under thickly covered sediments in the study area. The results suggest that the occurrence of the Caosiyao ore deposit is closely related to the huge amount of magma fluid intruding along the channel of Datong-Shangyi fault at a depth of gt;2 km. Our study demonstrates that the ambient noise tomography technique has the accuracy and resolution needed for mineral exploration targeting at deposit scale, with a relatively lower environmental impact as well as lower cost than active-source seismology.