Identification of prospective areas at the Northern Katpar deposit based on borehole geophysical surveys and spatial modeling

Purpose. To identify prospective areas within the Northern Katpar deposit based on the interpretation of borehole geophysical survey results and the analysis of spatial geological models. Methods. The set of borehole geophysical methods included gamma-ray logging (GR), inclinometry (IN), X-ray radiometric logging (XRL), thermometry, caliper logging, and resistivity logging (RES). In addition, spatial modeling methods were applied using Micromine software to construct 3D and 2D models of ore bodies. Findings. The analysis confirmed previously identified ore bodies and intersections based on the 2018 drilling data, with some clarifications. For the first time, a new ore intersection has been discovered within the loose sediments of the weathering crust between 42 and 47 profiles, not reflected in earlier geological cross-sections. Additional prospective zones with tungsten trioxide (WO3) content ranging from 0.2 to 0.5% were also identified. Originality. For the first time, the potential existence of ore bodies in the upper part of the section within the weathering crust has been substantiated through the integrated interpretation of geophysical data and block modeling that opens new opportunities for forecasting and resource assessment of the deposit. Practical implications. The proposed methodology for interpreting borehole geophysical data in combination with 3D modeling can be applied in prospecting and resource assessment of other tungsten-bearing deposits.