Geochemistry is an essential tool in mineral exploration. Research in the development of techniques and the understanding of geochemical processes and resultant exploration applications in Canada has lagged behind other parts of the world, particularly Australia. The objective of this project is to create a comprehensive set of geochemical models for BC porphyry systems. These models will be developed to determine the surficial geochemical responses of known deposits in known geological and geomorphic settings where different processes may be affecting the response. These models will be empirically determined, and advance our understanding of the expected responses of different systems (e.g. alkalic Cu–Au) in different settings (e.g. blind, heavily vegetated). These models will assist explorers in developing interpretations and making decisions about exploration strategies in situations with variably complex geochemical responses.

The final products will be a journal style publication of the models, a stand alone CD including raw and processed data layers, and a series of workshops. The knowledge generated from this project will better facilitate exploration efforts in BC, encourage increased investment in the province by improving the success rates of geochemical surveys. This project will also serve as a pilot study that will develop a template and framework for successive projects on other deposit models.

Posters and Presentations

2011: Geochemical Exploration Models for Porphyry Deposits in British Columbia
- Mineral Exploration Roundup Conference 2011 Poster (pdf, 2.1 MB)

Technical Articles

2012: "Geochemical-exploration models for porphyry deposits in British Columbia"
- Summary of Activities 2011, Report 2012-1 p. 29-40 (pdf, 1.9 MB)