Extraction of NW-Trending, Ore-Conducting Basement Hidden Faults in Manganese Ore Concentration Area Based on Multi-Source Data in Northeastern Guizhou, China

The Datangpo-type Mn ore deposits in northeastern Guizhou (southern China) are a relatively newly discovered type of sedimentary exhalative manganese ore deposit. Previous three-dimensional geological modeling has revealed an NW-trending trough-like depression that obliquely intersects the ENE-trending Nanhua Rift within the Nanhua System in this area. This depression likely represents a paleorift that was present before the metallogenetic period; its intersection with the Nanhua Rift corresponds precisely with the area in which a series of super-large and large new-type Mn ore deposits are located. Here, we used remote sensing image processing techniques, along with hierarchical spatial data fusion and mining methods adopted for exploration, to investigate this paleorift. Specifically, Bouguer gravity data were used to obtain middle–lower-crust structural information; aeromagnetic ΔT data were used to obtain middle–upper-crust structural information; and remote sensing and outcrop data coupled with regional geological survey, mineral exploration, and geochemical exploration data were used to obtain near-surface structural information. Combining these data, we determined the control that different deep tectonic frameworks exert on the formation and distribution of Mn ore deposits within the study area. This study proposes a new conceptual method and technical protocol permitting an improved understanding of the material source and mineralization pattern of Mn ore deposits within the study area, while verifying the existence of the NW-trending Tongren Paleorift.