Geophysical Exploration Technology Supports Optimal Selection of Boron Iron Ore Target Areas

Boron is a critical strategic mineral resource. Boron deposits in the Liaodong region currently supply more than 35% of China’s domestic demand. To advance exploration efforts in this area, detailed physical property measurements were carried out on various rock formations within the Yingkou–Anshan district. Utilizing integrated geophysical approaches, including gravity, magnetic, and electrical surveys, this study introduced—for the first time—the wide field electromagnetic method (WFEM) for deep exploration testing. Measured parameters included density, magnetic susceptibility, and resistivity. The electromagnetic methods proved effective in boron mineral exploration due to their pronounced response over the Lieryu Formation, which is enriched in boron minerals. We refined inversion parameters to improve the consistency between geophysical models and actual geological characteristics by correlating physical property parameters with drilled core lithology. Comprehensive analysis indicates that boron mineralization in the Houxianyu mining area is not restricted to the Lieryu Formation. Significant boron enrichment also occurs in deeper structures, including thick granite bodies, large-scale folds, and various unconformity contacts. These deep mineralized bodies share similar physical properties with known ore deposits but exhibit distinct geochemical signatures. Through integrated interpretation of gravity, magnetic, and electrical profiles—combined with geological, mineralogical, and structural data from the Houxianyu area—it is evident that ore bodies in the study area occupy structurally complex positions, influenced by regional tectonic evolution and magmatic activity. Geophysical results further reveal a notable deep extension of mineralization, indicating promising potential for deep prospecting.